Vegetable Stir-Fry

🛒 Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry:

• 🥦 1 cup broccoli florets
• 🥕 1 cup carrots, julienned or thinly sliced
• 🫑 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 🧅 1/2 cup snow peas
• 🥒 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 🌽 1/2 cup baby corn, halved (optional)
• 🧄 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 🌿 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 🫒 2 tbsp olive oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)

For the Sauce:

• 🍯 3 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 🍯 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 🌿 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 🌶️ 1 tsp Sriracha (optional for heat)
• 🥄 1 tsp cornstarch, mixed with 2 tbsp water

For the Rice:

• 🍚 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (fresh or leftover)
• 🌿 1 tsp sesame oil (optional for extra flavor)

Garnish:

• 🌿 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 🧄 2 green onions, chopped

🍳 Instructions

Prepare the Rice

1. Cook the Rice:
   • If using fresh rice, cook according to package instructions. For leftover rice, warm it slightly and toss with sesame oil for flavor.

Make the Sauce

2. Whisk the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, Sriracha (if using), and the cornstarch-water mixture. Set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

3. Heat the Oil:
   • In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Sauté Aromatics:
   • Add the garlic and grated ginger. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
   • Add the broccoli, carrots, and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently.
   • Add the snow peas, zucchini, and baby corn. Stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until all vegetables are crisp-tender.

Combine Everything

6. Add the Sauce:
   • Pour the sauce over the vegetables and toss to combine. Cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the veggies.
7. Serve with Rice:
   • Divide the cooked rice into bowls or plates and top with the stir-fried vegetables.

Garnish and Serve

8. Add the Finishing Touches:
   • Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a burst of flavor and color.

💡 Tips and Variations

• 🧄 Add Protein: Stir in tofu, shrimp, or cooked chicken for added protein.
• 🥬 Veggie Swap: Use mushrooms, bok choy, or spinach for variety.
• 🌶️ Make It Spicy: Add chili flakes or more Sriracha for a kick.
• 🧊 Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare in advance and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

🍹 Serving Suggestions

Pair this Vegetable Stir-Fry with a light miso soup or a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete and balanced meal.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice is a quick, colorful, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Packed with vibrant vegetables and a savory sauce, it’s both satisfying and wholesome.