Are you ready to elevate your vegetable game with a colourful and delicious stir fry? Cooking vegetables in a wadjan, a traditional Indonesian wok, offers a unique way to prepare a healthy, vibrant meal. This wok vegetables recipe combines the freshness of green peas, sliced snow peas, green beans, and asparagus with the vibrant hues of red and yellow bell peppers. Let's dive into this delightful recipe and learn how to cook stir fry vegetables in a wadjan.
Ingredients for wok vegetables
- 1 cup green peas
- 1 cup sliced snow peas
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 bunch green asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sesame seeds and chopped fresh herbs for garnish
Wash and slice all the vegetables as specified. Having everything prepped and ready makes the cooking process smooth and quick.
Place your carbon steel wadjan on medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and let it heat until it starts to shimmer.
Add the minced garlic to the hot oil. Stir fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Toss in the green peas, snow peas, green beans, and asparagus. Stir fry for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers to the wadjan. Continue to stir fry for another 2-3 minutes until all the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated.
Transfer the stir fried vegetables to a serving dish. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for perfect wok fried vegetables
- High heat: always cook your vegetables on high heat to ensure they remain crisp and vibrant.
- Don’t overcrowd: avoid overcrowding the wadjan as it can cause the vegetables to steam rather than fry.
- Preheat the wadjan: make sure your carbon steel wadjan is hot before adding the oil and vegetables for optimal stir frying.
- Fresh ingredients: use fresh, high-quality vegetables for the best flavour and texture.
- Quick cooking: stir frying is a fast process; keep an eye on your vegetables to prevent overcooking.
Wok frying vegetables in a wadjan not only retains their nutrients but also enhances their natural flavors and textures. This vibrant, colourful dish is perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal or a side dish for your next barbecue.
