Oriental Stir-fry

Asian-inspired Stir-fry Recipe with Chicken and Rice

Region / culture: Asia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Oriental Stir-fry is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and flavorful seasonings. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner with friends and family.

History

Stir-frying is a cooking technique that originated in China and has been used for centuries to create flavorful and nutritious dishes. The combination of fresh ingredients, high heat, and quick cooking results in dishes that are both delicious and healthy.

Ingredients

1 tbsp vegetable oil
0.5 lb (227 g) boned and skinned chicken breast, cut into small pieces
1 package (10 oz or 283 g) frozen Chinese- or Japanese-style stir-fry vegetables with seasonings
2 cups hot cooked rice

How to prepare

Remove the seasoning pouch from the vegetable package and set it aside.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken.
Stir-fry the chicken until it is no longer pink in color, then push it to the side of the skillet.
Add the vegetables to the skillet.
Do not add oil to the vegetables as instructed on the package.
Cover the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, stirring once.
Sprinkle the vegetables with the reserved seasonings and add water as directed.
Cook and stir for 30 seconds.
Serve the dish over fluffy rice.

Variations

Substitute tofu for the chicken for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, snow peas, or water chestnuts, for extra flavor and nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cut the chicken into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Use a hot skillet and cook the chicken quickly to keep it tender and juicy.

- Don't overcook the vegetables - they should be crisp-tender for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Oriental Stir-fry over hot cooked rice for a complete meal. Add a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad for extra nutrition.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is a quick and easy cooking technique that involves cooking food in a hot skillet or wok with a small amount of oil. The high heat and constant stirring help to cook the food quickly and evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have frozen stir-fry seasonings, you can use fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, along with your favorite Asian seasonings such as soy sauce, ginger, and garlic.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the ingredients for this dish ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. This makes it easy to have a quick and healthy meal on busy weeknights.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Oriental Stir-fry in a large serving bowl or on individual plates, garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a light and refreshing white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with green tea or sparkling water with a splash of lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 35g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 8g per serving

Saturated Fat: 1g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as iron and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and wheat allergens.

Summary

This Oriental Stir-fry is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Oriental Stir-fry is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight meal. With a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Oriental Stir-fry. It was many years ago, when I was a young woman with a passion for cooking and a curiosity for trying new flavors and techniques. I had always loved exploring different cuisines and experimenting with ingredients, so when I came across this recipe in an old cookbook at a flea market, I knew I had to give it a try.

The recipe was simple yet intriguing, calling for a mix of colorful vegetables, tender strips of chicken, and a savory sauce made with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. It promised a dish that was both delicious and healthy, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures. I was eager to taste it and share it with my family, so I bought the cookbook and set to work in my kitchen.

As I gathered the ingredients and prepared the vegetables, I couldn't help but think about the origins of this recipe. I imagined it being passed down through generations of skilled cooks, each adding their own twist and refinement to it. Perhaps it was inspired by the vibrant street food of bustling markets in China, or the rich culinary traditions of Japan or Thailand. Whatever its roots, I was excited to bring it to life and make it my own.

I followed the recipe carefully, sautéing the chicken until it was golden brown and adding in the crisp vegetables to cook until they were tender-crisp. The aroma of ginger and garlic filled the air, mingling with the savory scent of soy sauce and sesame oil. I poured in the sauce, letting it bubble and thicken until it coated the ingredients in a glossy glaze.

Finally, it was time to serve the stir-fry. I spooned it onto a bed of steamed rice, garnishing it with a sprinkle of sliced green onions and a drizzle of chili sauce for a touch of heat. The colors of the dish were vibrant and inviting, the flavors bold and complex. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of my labor.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of exotic spices and bold flavors. The tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and aromatic sauce danced on my taste buds, creating a symphony of flavors that was both comforting and exciting. I savored each mouthful, relishing the fusion of sweet, salty, and umami notes that made this dish so irresistible.

My family gathered around the table, eager to sample the stir-fry. Their eyes lit up as they took their first bites, marveling at the exotic flavors and textures that filled their mouths. They showered me with compliments and praise, declaring this dish a new family favorite that they couldn't wait to have again.

From that day on, Oriental Stir-fry became a regular feature on our dinner table. I would make it for special occasions and weeknight meals alike, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit our tastes and preferences. Each time I cooked it, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing that I had discovered a gem of a recipe that would bring joy and satisfaction to my loved ones.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of Oriental Stir-fry to others who appreciate good food and great company. I have taught my grandchildren how to make it, showing them the importance of using fresh ingredients and cooking with love and care. And as I look back on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am grateful for the joy and fulfillment that it has brought into my life.

So if you ever find yourself in search of a delicious and satisfying meal that is bursting with flavor and goodness, look no further than Oriental Stir-fry. It's a recipe that has stood the test of time and continues to delight and inspire all who taste it. And who knows, perhaps one day you too will stumble upon a treasure trove of culinary delights, just waiting to be discovered and shared with those you hold dear. Bon appétit!