| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 90 | 4g | 0.5g | 15g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 3g | 2g | 0.6g |
One of my favorite go-to dishes whenever I need something quick yet nutritious is the “Stir-fried Yacón with Bell Peppers. I love this recipe not only because it’s delicious, but also because it seamlessly blends exotic superfoods with classic, comfort-food ingredients. Yacón roots, which are indigenous to the Andean regions, offer a unique sweetness and an impressively low glycemic index, making them a perfect addition to any health-conscious meal repertoire.
Vibrant Colors and Flavors
The combination of vibrant red, yellow, and green bell peppers not only makes this dish visually appealing, but it also provides a range of flavors and textures that complement the subtle crunchiness of the yacón. Bell peppers are packed with vitamins A and C, which are excellent for your immune system and skin health. The sweetness of the peppers also balances the savory notes from the soy sauce and the slight tang from the rice vinegar, creating a harmonious palate that is both refreshing and satiating.
Health Benefits
This “Stir-fried Yacón with Bell Peppers” is a treasure trove of nutritional benefits. The yacón root is not only low in calories but also rich in prebiotic fibers, which are fantastic for your gut health. It’s a wonderful ingredient for anyone managing blood sugar levels, making it a star in diabetic-friendly diets. Additionally, garlic and onions, which are essential to this recipe, come with their own set of health perks, including boosting heart health and anti-inflammatory properties.
If you’ve ever enjoyed dishes like vegetable stir-fry, fajitas, or even ratatouille, you’ll find that this recipe hits similar notes while introducing you to the slightly sweet, refreshing taste of yacón. It’s also a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with brown rice or quinoa, providing a balanced meal that’s satisfying and nutritious.
For those who like to keep their meals on the lighter side without sacrificing flavor, this recipe is a must-try. Plus, it’s incredibly family-friendly; my three kids love it, and it’s a regular part of our dinner rotation. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or simply looking to introduce a new, healthy ingredient to your cooking, this dish is sure to impress. If you’re intrigued by the idea of incorporating more plant-based superfoods into your diet, this article offers some fascinating insights into the benefits of yacón root.
What You’ll Need
- 2 large yacón roots, peeled and julienned
- 2 medium red bell peppers, sliced into strips
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Method
Step One
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
Step Two
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Step Three
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step Four
Add the sliced onion to the skillet and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until it begins to soften.
Step Five
Add the julienned yacón roots to the skillet and continue to stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes.
Step Six
Add the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers to the skillet and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until they are tender but still crisp.
Step Seven
Pour the soy sauce mixture over the vegetables in the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Step Eight
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step Nine
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the stir-fried yacón with bell peppers to a serving dish.
Step Ten
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving. Serve immediately.
