Delicious Southern Stir Fry to Satisfy Your Cravings
Welcome to my kitchen, where I specialize in crafting delicious southern-style cuisine. Today, I’m excited to share with you my take on the classic stir-fry dish. But this isn’t just any old stir-fry. Oh no, this is a saucy and flavorful Southern Stir Fry Recipe that will have your taste buds dancing a jig.
This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want to whip up something quick and easy, but still packed full of flavor. It’s also an excellent way to use up leftover veggies and cooked white rice you may have lying around.
Throughout my years of cooking, I’ve found that the key to an unforgettable stir fry dish is in the sauce. That’s why I’ve spent countless hours perfecting this particular sauce for maximum flavor impact. You won’t be disappointed; trust me.
So grab your wok or large skillet and get ready to make a meal so delicious, it’ll transport you straight to the heart of the South.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Picture this: you’re sitting at a dinner table, surrounded by your loved ones, and the aroma of something truly delicious wafts from the kitchen. You feel your stomach rumbling in anticipation. Suddenly, a steaming hot southern stir fry is placed before you. The vibrant colors of the vegetables catch your eye – bright green broccoli, golden corn, and deep purple turnip greens. You can’t help but salivate.
This isn’t just any old stir fry, my friends. This is a saucy Southern dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Dixie. With a perfect blend of spices like cayenne pepper and dried thyme, you’ll experience an explosion of flavors with every bite.
But what sets this Southern stir fry apart from other stir fry recipes out there? Well, let me tell you:
Firstly, this dish incorporates two staple ingredients in Southern cooking: black-eyed peas and turnips greens. These savory legumes and leafy greens pack a punch of nutrition while adding a delightful texture to the overall dish.
Secondly, this recipe utilizes low-sodium soy sauce and homemade reduced-fat chicken broth for a healthier twist on traditional stir fry sauce. You don’t have to feel guilty about indulging in this saucy goodness.
And lastly, the versatility of this recipe allows for substitutions and variations to cater to all dietary preferences. Swap out chicken breast for beef or pork, toss in some green beans or cabbage, or try a Louisiana hot link or some pineapple chicken for some added zing.
Trust me when I say that you’ll be singing praises about this Southern stir fry long after you’ve licked your plate clean. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds (and your health) will thank you.
Ingredient List
Let’s take a look at the ingredients that you will need for this Southern Stir Fry Recipe:
For the stir-fry:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cups frozen corn
- 1 15-ounce can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Cooked white rice, for serving
For the stir-fry sauce:
- 1 cup cold cooked white rice
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves
- 2 tablespoons chicken broth, reduced fat and low sodium
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking this southern stir fry recipe. This recipe is all about the stir fry, so make sure to stir constantly and pay attention to cooking times.
1. Prep the Vegetables and Black-Eyed Peas
Cut the turnips greens, broccoli into bite-sized florets, and the turnips into 1-inch pieces. Drain and rinse the black-eyed peas using a strainer. Set them all aside.
2. Make the Stir Fry Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, cayenne pepper, and dried thyme leaves. In another small bowl, mix together the homemade chicken stock with a bit of cornstarch. Set both bowls aside.
3. Cook the White Rice
Cook 1 cup of white rice according to package instructions or use leftover cooked white rice if you have it.
4. Stir Fry the Vegetables and Black-Eyed Peas
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the prepared vegetables and black-eyed peas to the wok/skillet, stirring constantly for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add in the Stir Fry Sauce
Add prepared stir fry sauce into your wok/skillet with cooked vegetables and black-eyed peas, stirring constantly for an additional minute.
6. Add Cooked White Rice
Next, add in cooked white rice, corn, pineapple tidbits (if desired) to your wok/skillet mixture making sure everything is well mixed together.
7. Optional: Add Proteins
If desired, you can add proteins such as diced chicken breast, beef strips or pork slices to the vegetables mixture while stir frying them for a complete meal.
8. Garnish and Enjoy
Once everything is cooked through, turn off the heat and garnish with chopped green onion or parsley if desired. Serve immediately while piping hot and enjoy this delicious southern stir fry!
Stay tuned for our next section where we discuss substitutions and variations for this recipe!
Substitutions and Variations
Now, if you’re feeling adventurous and want to mix things up a bit, there are plenty of substitutions and variations that can be made to this southern stir fry recipe.
Firstly, if you don’t have any black-eyed peas on hand or simply don’t like them, they can be replaced with other legumes such as kidney beans or chickpeas. Additionally, for those who prefer less heat in their food, the cayenne pepper can be omitted or reduced.
For some added flavor and texture, switch out the frozen corn for diced carrots or bell peppers. If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, you can add some protein such as chicken breast, beef or pork.
Furthermore, the vegetables in this recipe can be easily swapped for whatever is in season or available at your local market. Green beans, broccoli, cabbage and turnips greens are all great options for a nutrient-packed stir fry.
If you want to make things saucier, try adding a homemade stir fry sauce made from ingredients such as soy sauce, chicken stock (reduced fat and low sodium), olive oil and thyme leaves.
And finally, for those daring chefs out there looking for something unique yet still bursting with southern flavor, consider trying khua kling (a spicy minced pork dish) or pineapple chicken to mix things up.
The sky’s the limit when it comes to substitutions and variations in this southern stir fry recipe. Get creative and make it your own!
Serving and Pairing
Southern Stir Fry is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and beverages. The stir fry itself is a perfect one-dish meal, but serving it with the right sides can take this dish to the next level.
One of my favorite ways to serve Southern Stir Fry is over a bed of cooked white rice. The fluffy texture of the rice provides excellent contrast to the hearty vegetables, making for a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Another classic pairing for stir fry dishes is steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans. The fresh crunch of these vegetables complements the tender texture of the stir fry and adds bright colors to the plate.
If you’re in the mood for something different, try pairing Southern Stir Fry with a fried cabbage recipe or khua kling (a spicy Thai meat dish). Both dishes offer bold flavors that pair nicely with the robust flavors of the Southern Stir Fry.
For a healthy and refreshing beverage pairing, I’d suggest iced tea or lemonade. These drinks complement the savory dishes and help cleanse your palate between bites.
Overall, what makes Southern Stir Fry such a great dish is its ability to work well with other foods. Whether you’re in the mood for something familiar or looking for new and exciting flavor combinations, this dish has got you covered!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Now, when it comes to making this saucy southern stir fry in advance, I’d suggest preparing the cooked white rice and vegetables ahead of time, storing them separately in air-tight containers in the fridge. This way, you can quickly and easily whip up a delicious and nutritious meal any time you fancy down the line.
In terms of storing leftovers, you can store the vegetable stir fry and cooked white rice, again, separately in air-tight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you’re planning on freezing your leftovers for a later date, make sure you let your stir fry cool before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. Properly stored, this dish will last about 2-3 months in the freezer.
To reheat your saucy southern stir fry: If you’re reheating individual portions of rice or vegetables on the stovetop, simply heat a tablespoon of olive oil or peanut oil over medium-high heat in a non-stick wok or large frying pan. Add your leftover veggies and cook for about 2 minutes until heated through. If you’re reheating a larger portion of stir fry, transfer it to a wok or frying pan along with a tablespoon or two of chicken broth and heat over medium-high heat until warmed through.
If microwaving is more your thing, place your leftover vegetables and rice in microwave safe dishes and cover each dish with plastic wrap or with lids that are vented. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes depending on portion size until heated through.
Remember, if your veggie greens start lose their vibrant green color during reheating process just toss them in ice water for a few seconds before microwaving them – this helps bring back their color as well as texture. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Results
Preparing a successful southern stir fry can be intimidating, especially if you’re new to stir frying. That’s why I’ve compiled some tips that will make your meal come out perfect every time. In this section, we’ll cover tips for prepping your ingredients, technique, and the perfect seasoning.
One of the critical tips to keep in mind when making southern stir fry is to chop vegetables into small, equal-sized pieces. This practice ensures that all the ingredients cook evenly, so nothing is under or overcooked. Additionally, it makes for a beautiful presentation on your plate.
When it comes to protein options like chicken or beef used in stir fry recipes, it’s essential to slice them thin and against the grain. The meat will be more tender and cook faster that way. Meanwhile, don’t overcrowd the pan with the protein as it can end up steaming instead of stir frying.
Soy sauce is an essential seasoning ingredient in this recipe but take care in adding other seasonings like cayenne pepper or dried thyme. While they add great flavor, too much can overpower the dish.
Lastly, don’t add too much oil; a tablespoon of vegetable oil is enough to avoid soggy results. Remember always to use high heat when stir frying veggies and medium-high heat when cooking proteins.
Keep these tips in mind, and your Southern Stir Fry Recipe will become a staple among your weeknight meal rotation!
FAQ
Before we conclude this article, let me address some of the frequently asked questions (FAQ) about this Southern Stir Fry recipe. I know that making a stir fry can be tricky, and so I hope to alleviate any concerns or doubts you may have with the following answers to your questions. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!
What are the 3 rules of stir-frying?
When it comes to stir-frying, there are a few key principles to keep in mind. Firstly, it is essential to cook both the protein and vegetable separately and to combine them only when each is fully cooked. Secondly, it is best to choose only one type of vegetable for each stir-fry to ensure the flavors meld together perfectly. Lastly, it is crucial to wait until everything is nearly finished cooking before adding any liquid. Following these general rules will help you create delicious and authentic stir-fry dishes with ease.
What is the secret to a good stir-fry?
If you want to make a quick and delicious stir-fry, I highly recommend using a wok. The reason woks are so great is because they have a concentrated heat source at the bottom, meaning your ingredients will cook quickly and evenly. However, it’s important not to overload your wok. You want to have enough space to be constantly stirring your ingredients, which is the key to successful stir-frying. Another great tip is to add some water to your wok to create some steam which will help cook your ingredients to perfection. Lastly, I suggest thickening your stir-fry sauce to really coat your ingredients and enhance their flavors.
How do you make stir-fry taste like a restaurant?
One of the key elements of adding flavor to southern-style cuisine is the use of aromatic ingredients. These ingredients such as garlic, ginger, green onions, chilies, and spices are typically added to the oil first to infuse it with their rich flavors. It’s essential to note that only a small amount of these ingredients is needed. Adding just a few teaspoons to a tablespoon of total aromatic ingredients per person can bring a significant amount of flavor to your dishes.
What are the ingredients of a good stir-fry?
When making a stir-fry, it is important to balance four key elements – protein, vegetables, aromatics, and sauce. The usual ratio is one pound of protein and two pounds of vegetables, combined with a basic stir-fry sauce (recipe provided below). To add a personal touch to your dish, feel free to incorporate your preferred aromatics or herbs, which will alter the flavor profile.
Bottom Line
: In conclusion, this Southern Stir Fry Recipe is an irresistible and healthy option that should be added to everyone’s recipe collection. It’s versatile enough to be customized with a variety of proteins, vegetables, and spices to suit different palates. The recipe includes ingredients that are affordable, easy to find at any grocery store, and low in sodium for those who prefer a healthier option. The homemade sauce is what sets this recipe apart from others and it’s simple to make.
As someone who loves southern-style cuisine, I can attest that this recipe will not disappoint. You’ll love the pops of flavor from the black-eyed peas, cayenne pepper, and thyme leaves. The addition of frozen corn adds both texture and sweetness to the dish. Meanwhile, the cooked white rice absorbs all the bold flavors of the stir fry sauce.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, Southern Stir Fry Recipe offers something for everyone. It’s a quick and easy weeknight meal that’s perfect for busy families or for anyone looking to expand their skill set in cooking saucy Southern dishes. So why not give this recipe a try tonight? Your taste buds will thank you later!
Southern Stir Fry Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup cold cooked white rice
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 (15 ounce) can black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups lightly packed spinach leaves
Instructions
- Spray 12" nonstick skillet with nonstick cooking spray; heat over med-high heat.
- Cook all ingredients except spinach in skillet, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stir in spinach; cook until spinach begins to wilt.
- Serve immediately (just bring the skillet to the table and watch it go.).
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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