Spicy Fried Celery

Spicy Fried Celery Recipe from Japan | Ingredients: Celery, Red Chili, Oil, Sugar, Soy Sauce

Region / culture: Japan | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Spicy Fried Celery is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that packs a punch of flavor. The combination of crunchy celery, spicy chili, and savory soy sauce creates a perfect balance of taste and texture. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add a little heat to their meal.

History

Spicy Fried Celery is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, known for its bold flavors and simple preparation. It is often served as a side dish or appetizer, adding a spicy kick to any meal.

Ingredients

4 celery ribs, including some leaves
1 small red chili
15 ml oil
4 tsp sugar
30 ml soy sauce

How to prepare

Cut the celery sticks into lengths of 4 cm, then finely shred them vertically.
Slice the chili thinly.
Heat the oil in a frying pan, and add the celery, chili, and sugar.
Stir-fry over medium heat for 1 minute, then add the soy sauce and continue stir-frying for another minute or two until all the liquid has evaporated.
To maintain the crispness of the celery, evaporate the liquid quickly.

Variations

Add some garlic or ginger for extra flavor.
Substitute the chili with red pepper flakes for a milder version.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cut the celery into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Adjust the amount of chili according to your spice preference.

- Be careful not to overcook the celery, as it can become mushy.

Serving Suggestions

Spicy Fried Celery can be served as a side dish with rice or noodles. It also pairs well with grilled meats or tofu.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is the best technique for this recipe to maintain the crunchiness of the celery.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and stir-fry them just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve with steamed rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Approximately 120 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Celery: 3g per serving

- Sugar: 4g per serving

- Soy sauce: 2g per serving

Fats

- Oil: 7g per serving

Proteins

- Celery: 1g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Celery is a good source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

Soy sauce contains soy, which may be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Spicy Fried Celery is a low-calorie dish that is high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for those looking to add more vegetables to their diet.

Summary

Spicy Fried Celery is a quick and flavorful dish that is perfect for adding some spice to your meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a hot summer day, and my friend Maria had invited me over for lunch. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the most amazing aroma. Maria was standing over the stove, stirring a pot of spicy fried celery. The sizzle of the celery hitting the hot oil was music to my ears.

I had never thought of cooking celery in this way before. Usually, I would just chop it up and add it to soups or salads. But the way Maria was preparing it, with garlic, chili flakes, and soy sauce, was something entirely new to me. I couldn't wait to try it.

Maria noticed my interest and smiled. "Would you like to learn how to make this dish?" she asked.

I eagerly nodded, and she handed me a chopping board and a knife. She showed me how to cut the celery into thin strips, explaining that the thinner the slices, the crispier the celery would be once fried. She then taught me how to mince garlic and how to adjust the amount of chili flakes for a milder or spicier flavor.

As we cooked together, Maria shared the story of how she learned this recipe from her grandmother. She explained that her grandmother was a master in the kitchen, and she had passed down many traditional recipes to her. This particular dish was one that her grandmother used to make for her when she was feeling under the weather. The spiciness of the celery was said to clear the sinuses and invigorate the body.

I listened intently as Maria shared her family's culinary history with me. I was fascinated by the idea of passing down recipes from generation to generation, each one carrying with it a piece of family tradition and love.

After we finished cooking, Maria plated the spicy fried celery and we sat down to eat. The first bite was a revelation. The crunch of the celery, the kick of the chili flakes, and the depth of flavor from the soy sauce all combined to create a symphony of taste in my mouth. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I add a splash of vinegar for a tangy twist, other times I throw in some bell peppers for extra color and crunch. But no matter how I choose to make it, the spicy fried celery always brings me back to that day in Maria's kitchen, learning from a friend and experiencing the joy of cooking.

Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, preparing this dish for my grandchildren, I can't help but feel grateful for all the recipes I have collected over the years. Each one tells a story, holds a memory, and connects me to the people and places that have shaped my love for food.

And as I watch my grandchildren dig into the spicy fried celery with gusto, I know that this recipe will continue to be passed down through the generations, just like Maria's grandmother did for her. Cooking is more than just following instructions – it's about sharing traditions, creating memories, and nourishing both body and soul. And for that, I am forever thankful.