For those busy days when you need a healthy meal in a flash, this super quick stir-fry recipe featuring broccoli and carrots is the perfect solution. Packed with nutrients and bursting with fresh flavors, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a vibrant side dish, or a quick dinner, this recipe will help you put a wholesome meal on the table in no time. With simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll love how effortless it is to enjoy a nutritious and delicious stir-fry.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli: Florets and stems, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Carrots: Sliced into thin rounds or matchsticks
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Salt & MSG: To taste (optional)
- Slurry: 1 tbsp flour diluted in 2-3 tbsp water
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Chop the Broccoli: Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets and peel and slice the stems thinly to ensure even cooking.
- Slice the Carrots: Peel the carrots and slice them into thin rounds or matchsticks for a quick cook.
- Chop the Onion: Finely chop the onion to add sweetness and depth to the stir-fry.
- Mince the Garlic: Mince the garlic cloves to infuse the dish with a delicious aroma.
2. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the hot oil. Cook the onions for 2-3 minutes until they turn soft and see-through, then add the garlic and let it release its aromatic scent.
- Add the Carrots: Toss the sliced carrots into the pan and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes. The carrots should begin to soften but still retain some crunch.
- Stir-Fry the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets and stems to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
3. Season and Thicken:
- Season the Stir-Fry: Sprinkle in the black pepper, salt, and MSG (if using) to taste. Toss the vegetables to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Add the Slurry: Pour the flour slurry into the pan, stirring continuously. The slurry will help to thicken any liquids in the pan, creating a light sauce that coats the vegetables beautifully.
4. Serve:
- Plate the Stir-Fry: Once the sauce has thickened and the vegetables are cooked to your liking, remove the pan from the heat. Enjoy the stir-fry steaming hot, either as a stand-alone dish or atop a serving of fluffy steamed rice or tender noodles for a satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
This quick and easy broccoli and carrot stir-fry is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious meal in just minutes. The crisp-tender vegetables, combined with the savory seasoning and light sauce, make this dish both healthy and delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a light, flavorful side, this stir-fry is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy the simplicity and goodness of fresh vegetables with minimal effort and maximum taste!