Celery stir fry is a light, crunchy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick and healthy meal. This simple recipe combines crisp celery with aromatic garlic and soy sauce, creating a delicious and refreshing side dish or light main course. It’s easy to prepare and pairs well with a variety of proteins and grains.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 6-8 stalks of celery, washed and sliced diagonally
- 1 medium carrot, julienned (optional for added color and flavor)
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil or vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 grams) red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon (5 grams) sugar or maple syrup (optional for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 green onion, sliced (optional for garnish)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Wash and slice the celery diagonally into thin pieces.
- If using, julienne the carrot.
- Mince the garlic.
2. Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Stir Fry the Vegetables:
- Add the sliced celery (and carrot, if using) to the skillet. Stir fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the celery is tender-crisp.
5. Add Seasonings:
- Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, red pepper flakes (if using), rice vinegar, and sugar or maple syrup (if using). Toss the vegetables to coat them evenly with the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Season and Garnish:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the celery stir fry immediately as a side dish or over a bed of rice or noodles for a light main course.
Cooking Tips:
- For added protein, you can stir fry tofu, tempeh, or sliced chicken with the vegetables.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, or mushrooms for more variety and color.
- To maintain the crispness of the celery, be careful not to overcook it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: This stir fry comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Celery is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this dish a healthy choice.
- Versatile: This stir fry can be customized with your favorite vegetables and proteins, making it adaptable to various tastes and dietary needs.
Conclusion:
Celery stir fry is a simple, healthy, and flavorful dish that can be prepared in no time. With its crisp texture and savory seasonings, it’s a refreshing change from heavier stir fry dishes and pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or your favorite protein. Give this easy recipe a try for a quick and nutritious meal that’s sure to satisfy!