| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 12 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 180 | 12g | 2g | 18g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 4g | 3g | 6g | 1.5g |
As a Boston native with an Irish lineage, I have been fortunate enough to experience an extraordinary fusion of culinary styles. This amalgamation often shines through my recipes – a delightful mix of New England seafood and Irish comfort food. One such recipe that stands dear to my heart is the Stir-fried Catsears with Garlic and Soy Sauce.
A Family Favourite
This Stir-fried Catsears with Garlic and Soy Sauce recipe holds quite a special place in my family’s kitchen history. It was first introduced to me as a young boy by my spunky grandmother. She took immense pride in her cooking, animatedly talking about the different ingredients she uses, their unique flavours, and the captivating stories behind how each ingredient found its way into her kitchen. This traditional family recipe, passed down through generations, brings comfort to our dinner table and warmth to our hearts.
Healthful Delight
What makes this recipe even more beautiful is not just its rich history, but also the numerous health benefits it carries. This veggie delight is packed with catsears, a type of edible weed that’s high in Vitamin C and a natural detoxifier. Sprinkled generously with garlic and soy sauce, this recipe provides a ton of heart-friendly elements. Garlic, being a potent medicinal plant, contributes significantly to improving cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure while soy sauce, in moderate amounts, adds flavour but also proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
Asian Cuisine Inspiration
Although this recipe harks back to my family roots and has Irish overtones, the Stir-fried Catsears with Garlic and Soy Sauce is reminiscent of Asian stir-fry. As an ardent fan of Asian cuisine, it brings me delight to stir in a dash of international flavours to our home-cooked meals. This dish can be enjoyed solo or it pairs wonderfully with simple steamed rice or a hearty bowl of noodles.
During family gatherings, I often serve this alongside a roast or grill, making it a delicious, healthful side dedicated to bringing moreish, exotic flavours to our traditional feasts. And if you’re interested in exploring similar, veggie-based dishes, I recommend Spicy Thai Peanut Sauce over Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Rice or Stir-Fried Watercress.
Beyond just a recipe, Stir-fried Catsears with Garlic and Soy Sauce is a testament of our family’s love for food intertwined with generations of culinary tradition. It’s a celebration of diversity, purity of ingredients, and everlasting health. A recipe from my heart to your kitchen! Happy cooking!
What You’ll Need
- 3 cups of catsears (cut into small pieces)
- 6 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of water
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Method
Step One
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pan. Stir-fry these ingredients for a minute or two, until the garlic is fragrant.
Step Two
Add the catsears to the pan. Stir-fry them with the garlic and red pepper flakes until they start to soften, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step Three
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and water. Stir until the sugar has dissolved in the mixture.
Step Four
Pour the soy sauce mixture over the catsears in the pan. Stir well to ensure that the catsears are coated in the sauce.
Step Five
Continue to stir-fry the catsears for another 3-5 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the catsears are tender.
Step Six
Remove the pan from the heat. If desired, sprinkle the stir-fried catsears with sesame seeds before serving. Your Stir-fried Catsears with Garlic and Soy Sauce is now ready to enjoy!
