Chicken and Bean Stir-fry

Chicken and Bean Stir-fry Recipe from India - Delicious and Spicy

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Chicken and Bean Stir-fry recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that is quick and easy to make. Packed with protein and vegetables, this stir-fry is a perfect meal for busy weeknights.

History

Stir-frying is a cooking technique that originated in China and has been used for centuries to create flavorful and healthy dishes. This recipe combines the traditional stir-fry method with modern ingredients to create a tasty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

1 chicken breast, chopped into tiny bite-size pieces
2 cups green beans (frozen)
2 stalks of green onion, sliced into 1 inch pieces
3 – 4 stalks of celery, chopped into bite-size pieces
1 cup sliced red pepper
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 cube chicken bouillon
1 tsp curry powder
0.5 tsp red chili powder
0.5 tsp crushed black pepper
salt, to taste
2 tbsp cooking oil

How to prepare

Heat oil in a wok and add chicken pieces. Stir-fry until the chicken is cooked through. Then, add chili powder, curry powder, bouillon cube, and black pepper.
Continue stir-frying for a minute and add celery and beans.
Cook for a minute or two and add red pepper and green onion.
Next, add soy sauce and salt. Stir-fry for a few minutes until all the flavors blend together.
Serve over warm rice and enjoy!

Variations

Add different vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms for variety.
Use tofu or shrimp instead of chicken for a vegetarian or seafood option.
Experiment with different seasonings such as ginger, garlic, or teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to chop all the ingredients into bite-size pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Use a high heat when stir-frying to quickly cook the ingredients and retain their crispness.

- Don't overcook the vegetables to maintain their vibrant colors and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this stir-fry over warm rice or noodles for a complete meal. You can also garnish with sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying involves cooking ingredients quickly over high heat in a wok or skillet while constantly stirring to ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the chicken with beef, pork, or tofu. You can also use different vegetables based on your preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

You can chop the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This will save time when preparing the stir-fry.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the stir-fry in a colorful bowl or plate to showcase the vibrant vegetables. You can also garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of sesame oil for a finishing touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This stir-fry pairs well with a side of steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of kimchi or pickled vegetables for added flavor.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 300 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 10 grams of fats per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 25 grams of proteins per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium from the vegetables.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and chicken, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Overall, this Chicken and Bean Stir-fry is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Chicken and Bean Stir-fry is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Packed with protein and vegetables, this stir-fry is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of awe. It was a warm summer evening, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha for dinner. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most tantalizing aroma of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Curious, I peeked over Martha's shoulder as she stirred a sizzling pan of chicken and beans.

"What are you making, Martha?" I asked, my mouth watering at the sight of the colorful stir-fry.

"Oh, this is just a little recipe I picked up from a friend," Martha replied with a smile. "It's a simple yet delicious chicken and bean stir-fry that's perfect for a quick and healthy dinner."

I watched in amazement as Martha effortlessly tossed the chicken and beans in the pan, creating a symphony of flavors with each stir. The dish was fragrant, vibrant, and full of flavor – everything a good stir-fry should be.

After savoring every bite of the delicious meal, I begged Martha for the recipe. She was more than happy to share it with me, along with a few tips and tricks she had picked up along the way.

Over the years, I made the chicken and bean stir-fry countless times, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. Sometimes I would use different vegetables, like bell peppers and broccoli, to add a pop of color and crunch. Other times, I would experiment with different seasonings and sauces to create a unique flavor profile.

One day, while browsing through a stack of old cookbooks at a flea market, I came across a recipe for a similar chicken and bean stir-fry. Intrigued, I purchased the cookbook and hurried home to compare the two recipes.

As I read through the cookbook, I realized that the recipe I had been making for years was just a variation of the traditional Chinese stir-fry dish. The cookbook provided me with valuable insights into the history and origins of the dish, as well as a few traditional techniques that I had never tried before.

Eager to learn more about the traditional way of making chicken and bean stir-fry, I reached out to my friend Martha's friend, who had originally shared the recipe with her. She was delighted to hear from me and invited me over to her home for a cooking lesson.

On the appointed day, I arrived at her cozy kitchen, armed with a notebook and pen. As she walked me through the process of making the stir-fry, I listened intently, absorbing every detail like a sponge.

I learned that the key to a good stir-fry lies in the preparation – the ingredients should be sliced thinly and evenly to ensure even cooking. I also learned about the importance of using a hot wok and stirring the ingredients quickly and constantly to prevent sticking and burning.

After a few hours of cooking and chatting, I emerged from my friend's kitchen with a newfound appreciation for the art of stir-frying. Armed with her valuable advice and guidance, I returned home and set to work perfecting my chicken and bean stir-fry recipe.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with friends and family, passing on the knowledge and skills I have acquired along the way. Each time I make the dish, I am reminded of the wonderful memories and experiences that have shaped my culinary journey.

As I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of chicken and bean stir-fry, I am filled with gratitude for all the people who have enriched my life with their delicious recipes and cooking wisdom. Cooking, after all, is not just about following a recipe – it's about sharing love, laughter, and memories around the dinner table. And for that, I am truly thankful.