| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 180 | 10g | 1.5g | 22g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 12g | 4g | 3g | 1.2g |
When it comes to finding the perfect balance between tradition and innovation, the Camas Bulb Stir-fry truly captures my heart. Being raised in Montana, I’ve always appreciated the bounty of wild ingredients available, and camas bulbs have long been a staple in the diet of Indigenous peoples. This recipe not only honors that heritage but also melds it seamlessly with modern, vibrant flavors.
A Nutritional Powerhouse
One of the reasons I adore this Camas Bulb Stir-fry is its incredible nutritional profile. Camas bulbs, often overlooked in contemporary cooking, are packed with essential nutrients such as fiber, vitamins C and B6, and folate. Combine that with the vitamins and antioxidants from the bell peppers, zucchini, and snow peas, and you have a dish that’s as healthful as it is delicious. The inclusion of garlic and ginger not only enhances the flavor but also adds anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, making this stir-fry a wholesome meal for any time of the year.
The sauce, featuring soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar, provides a harmonious blend of sweet, salty, and tangy notes that elevate the dish to restaurant-quality status. Red pepper flakes add a subtle kick, while sesame seeds and green onions bring the final touches of texture and freshness. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish that anyone can master in their home kitchen.
Versatility and Pairings
This stir-fry is reminiscent of other vegetable-forward dishes like ratatouille or even a classic vegetable lo mein, but its unique ingredients and flavor profile set it apart. It pairs beautifully with a side of jasmine rice or a hearty quinoa salad, offering versatility that lets it shine in various culinary contexts. For those looking to add a bit of protein, grilled tofu or shrimp would complement the stir-fry’s flavors perfectly.
If you’re intrigued by traditional ingredients integrated into modern cuisine, you may also enjoy recipes featuring other indigenous foods like the Three Sisters stew, which incorporates corn, beans, and squash—another homage to Native American culinary wisdom. There are endless possibilities when you start with a recipe like this, sparking creativity and encouraging exploration of ancient ingredients in new and exciting ways.
In conclusion, the Camas Bulb Stir-fry is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of cultural heritage, nutritional wellness, and culinary innovation. It’s dishes like this that fuel my passion for exploring new flavors and paying homage to the traditions that shape our food stories. So, get your skillet ready and prepare to be wowed by the simplicity and richness of this incredible stir-fry.
What You’ll Need
- 1 pound camas bulbs, cleaned and sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup snow peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Method
Step One
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Step Two
Add the sliced camas bulbs to the skillet and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, until they start to become tender.
Step Three
Add the sliced red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and zucchini to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step Four
Add the snow peas, minced garlic, and minced ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Step Five
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
Step Six
Pour the sauce mixture over the vegetables in the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step Seven
Remove the skillet from heat, and sprinkle the stir-fry with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
