Vegan Chinese Chili Sesame Stir-Fry

Introduction

Chinese cuisine offers a tantalizing array of flavors, and this Vegan Chinese Chili Sesame Stir-Fry embodies the vibrant tastes and textures characteristic of this culinary tradition. Combining fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and a delectable chili sesame sauce, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome weeknight dinner or a stunning dish for entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.

In this detailed guide, we’ll provide you with step-by-step instructions, ingredient measurements, nutritional information, and tips to ensure your stir-fry is a resounding success. Let’s embark on a flavorful journey!

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry:

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or sesame oil for added flavor)
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • 1 cup snap peas (or snow peas)
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (shiitake or button)
  • 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

For the Chili Sesame Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust based on heat preference)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or agave syrup)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon water to create a slurry)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for extra flavor)

Equipment Needed

  • Wok or large frying pan
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • Grater or zester

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing and chopping all the vegetables. Slice the onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Julienne the carrot and chop the green onions. Grate the ginger and mince the garlic. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process much smoother.

Step 2: Make the Chili Sesame Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, sesame oil, and maple syrup. Set aside. In a separate small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. This will help thicken your sauce later on.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Place your wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil (or sesame oil) and allow it to heat until shimmering. This step is essential for achieving a good sear on your vegetables.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onion to the pan. Sauté for about 2 minutes until it begins to soften. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the aromatic flavors to release into the oil.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

Now it’s time to add your vegetables! Start with the broccoli florets and carrots, as they take longer to cook. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are vibrant in color and slightly tender.

Step 6: Incorporate Remaining Vegetables

Add the bell pepper, snap peas, and mushrooms to the pan. Continue to stir-fry for another 3-5 minutes until all the vegetables are cooked to your desired tenderness. The goal is to keep them crisp while ensuring they are well-coated in the oil and flavors.

Step 7: Add Spinach (Optional)

If you are using baby spinach, add it to the stir-fry and toss until wilted, which should take about 1 minute. Spinach adds a lovely green color and a boost of nutrients to the dish.

Step 8: Thicken the Sauce

Once the vegetables are cooked, pour the prepared chili sesame sauce over the stir-fried vegetables. Stir well to combine, ensuring that all the vegetables are coated evenly. Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 9: Garnish

Remove the stir-fry from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an added touch of flavor and presentation.

Step 10: Serve

Serve the Vegan Chinese Chili Sesame Stir-Fry hot, either on its own or over a bed of steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. Enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 180
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 6g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints

For those following the Weight Watchers program, this Vegan Chinese Chili Sesame Stir-Fry is approximately 4 SmartPoints per serving, making it a great option for a healthy, balanced meal.

Tips for Success

  1. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or those that are in season. Zucchini, cauliflower, or bok choy would work beautifully in this stir-fry.
  2. Adjusting Spice Levels: The chili paste can be adjusted according to your heat preference. For a milder dish, reduce the amount or choose a less spicy variety.
  3. Meal Prep: This stir-fry is perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
  4. Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with jasmine rice, brown rice, or whole grain noodles for a heartier meal. You can also add tofu or tempeh for additional protein.
  5. Garnishing: A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or fresh cilantro can enhance the flavors and presentation, adding a pop of color.

Conclusion

The Vegan Chinese Chili Sesame Stir-Fry is a flavorful, nutritious dish that highlights the best of plant-based cooking. With its vibrant vegetables and zesty chili sesame sauce, it’s a satisfying option for both vegans and non-vegans alike. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this stir-fry is sure to impress. Enjoy the experience of creating this delightful dish, and savor the incredible flavors that come together in each bite!