Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
180 | 11g | 2g | 17g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
5g | 5g | 6g | 1.2g |
There’s something special about this Asparagus Beans Stir-fry, a dish that captures the simplicity and vibrancy of West Coast cuisine infused with the flavors of my Gujarati roots. This satisfying vegetable medley not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers an array of health benefits that you can’t ignore.
I believe that the heart of every dish lies in its ingredients and how they interact with each other. From silky asparagus beans to crunchy carrots and red bell pepper, every element in this dish brings something unique to the table. A wonderful medley of textures and flavors that dance harmoniously on the palate, brought together by the warmth of ginger and garlic, the tanginess of soy sauce, and the nuttiness of sesame oil and seeds.
A Fusion Of Flavors
Fusion cuisine holds a special place in my culinary journey. It allows me to explore an exciting amalgamation of flavors while preserving the essence of each culture. When I initially created this Asparagus Beans Stir-fry, I wanted to honor the fresh local produce of California while also incorporating the nostalgic flavors of Gujarati food. The result is a dish that embodies the best of both worlds.
This stir-fry is a testament of how two distinct cuisines can unite beautifully on a plate. It’s very much akin to dishes like Brussels Sprouts and Beans with Lemon and Pecorino or Green Bean Stir-fry where the ingredients speak for themselves and the fusion of flavors is subtle yet profound. I love how this dish effortlessly pairs with a myriad of dishes like a simple bowl of steamed rice, or for an added fusion twist, try it out with some traditional Gujarati Khichdi.
The Health Benefits
Not only is this Asparagus Beans Stir-fry a celebration of flavors, but it’s also remarkably nutritious. Asparagus beans, often referred to as Chinese long beans, are a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like iron and magnesium. They can aid in digestion, boost the immune system, and contribute to bone health. Not to mention, carrots are a great source of beta-carotene, bell peppers are loaded with antioxidants, and ginger and red pepper flakes are known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. With every bite of this delicious stir-fry, you’re also nourishing your body in the best possible ways.
So whether you’re craving for a satisfying meal or just on the lookout for a healthy and flavorful dish, this Asparagus Beans Stir-fry has got you covered. Try it out – I have a feeling you’re going to love it just as much as I do.
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 pounds of asparagus beans
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1.5 inch piece of fresh ginger, minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 6 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1/4 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup of toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Method
Step One
Firstly, trim the ends of the asparagus beans and cut them into 2-inch pieces. Set aside.
Step Two
Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sauté until fragrant. Be careful to not burn them.
Step Three
Add the sliced red bell pepper, carrots, and green onions to the pan. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes, until the vegetables are slightly softened.
Step Four
Add the prepared asparagus beans to the pan. Continue to stir-fry for another 5 minutes, or until the beans are tender-crisp.
Step Five
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, water, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour this sauce over the stir-fried vegetables.
Step Six
Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and coats all the vegetables evenly. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step Seven
Turn off the heat, then sprinkle the stir-fry with toasted sesame seeds (if using) before serving.