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Deeply Caramelized Smoky Vegetable Stir Fry

This vegetable stir fry is cooked with patience and high heat to develop deep caramelization and smoky flavors, even without a wok or open flame. Main ingredients like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots are quickly seared to achieve crisp-tender textures with charred edges, finished with a splash of soy and sesame oil for richness. The final dish boasts vibrant vegetables coated in a glossy, smoky glaze with a roasted aroma and slightly charred appearance.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil high smoke point
  • 3 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger finely minced
  • 1 red bell pepper bell peppers sliced into strips
  • 1 cup broccoli florets fresh, thoroughly rinsed
  • 2 carrots carrots thinly julienned
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce low-sodium preferred
  • 1 tsp sesame oil just a drizzle at the end

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Spatula
  • Sharp Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Place a large skillet or wok over high heat and add a tablespoon of vegetable oil, swirling to coat the surface. Wait until the oil shimmers and just begins to smoke slightly, indicating it's hot enough.
  2. Add the finely minced garlic and ginger to the hot oil. Stir quickly, and cook until fragrant—about 30 seconds to 1 minute—watching for a bubbling aroma and slightly darker color around the edges.
  3. Pour in the sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, and julienned carrots. Spread them out evenly in the pan and let them sear undisturbed for about 2 minutes, until they start to brown and develop a roasted aroma.
  4. Stir the vegetables and continue cooking, stirring frequently, for another 3–4 minutes. Look for edges that are slightly charred and vegetables that are crisp-tender with vibrant colors.
  5. Pour the soy sauce over the vegetables and toss well to coat everything evenly. Continue stir-frying for another minute, allowing the sauce to glaze the vegetables and deepen the smoky flavor.
  6. Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle with a teaspoon of sesame oil. Toss everything together one last time to infuse a nutty, smoky aroma, then transfer to a serving dish.
  7. Enjoy immediately, savoring the crisp, caramelized edges and smoky aroma that make this stir fry special.