| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 90 | 4g | 0.5g | 12g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 4g | 2g | 0.4g |
Ever since I first created the Arame and Carrot Stir Fry, it has become one of my absolute go-to dishes. As someone who grew up in Texas surrounded by hearty Tex-Mex flavors, my culinary palette has seldom ventured into the realm of Japanese-inspired cuisine. However, this particular recipe resonates with my love for vibrant vegetables and dynamic flavors, making it an irresistible addition to my repertoire.
A Marriage of Flavors
The Arame and Carrot Stir Fry combines savory, sweet, and slightly nutty undertones, coming together in a flavor medley that is as satisfying as it is unique. The julienned carrots offer a crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender, soaked arame. The garlic and onions form a flavorful base, while the mirin and soy sauce (or tamari) add an umami richness that weaves through every bite. The finishing touch of toasted sesame seeds and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil provide a delightful crunch and aromatic experience.
Health Benefits
Not only is this dish a feast for the senses, but it also packs a hearty nutritional punch. Arame, a type of sea vegetable, is rich in essential minerals like calcium, iodine, and magnesium. It’s known to support thyroid health and boost your immune system. Carrots are renowned for their high beta-carotene content, which is excellent for eye health and immune function. Sesame seeds add a good amount of protein and healthy fats, making this stir-fry as nourishing as it is delicious.
One of the great aspects of this dish is its versatility. It pairs wonderfully with a bowl of fluffy jasmine rice or can be served alongside other favorites like miso soup or a fresh cucumber salad. If you love stir-fry recipes, you might also enjoy Korean Japchae, which features sweet potato noodles, or a classic Veggie Lo Mein, as they all share that harmonious blend of vegetables and deeply savory sauces.
Whether you’re exploring new culinary territories like I am, or just looking for a healthy, tasty meal, the Arame and Carrot Stir Fry is sure to become a staple in your kitchen too. The combination of simple ingredients and complex flavors is what makes this dish a standout, and I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine.
Looking for more nutritious and flavorful recipes? Check out Verywell Fit for more inspiration on healthy eating.
What You’ll Need
- 2 tbsp arame (dried sea vegetable, soaked in water for 10 minutes and drained)
- 1 1/2 lbs carrots (julienned)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion (thinly sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds (toasted)
- 2 green onions (chopped, for garnish)
Method
Step One
Soak 2 tablespoons of arame in water for 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step Two
Julienne 1 1/2 pounds of carrots. Thinly slice 1 medium onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic.
Step Three
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Step Four
Add the julienned carrots to the skillet. Stir fry for about 5-7 minutes, until the carrots are tender-crisp.
Step Five
Add the drained arame to the skillet. Stir in 1 tablespoon of soy sauce or tamari and 1 tablespoon of mirin. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step Six
Drizzle 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil over the mixture and toss to combine. Remove the skillet from heat.
Step Seven
Transfer the stir fry to a serving dish. Garnish with 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately.
