Savory Vegetable Stir-Fry Sauce
As a college student navigating the challenges of a budget-friendly vegan diet, I’ve discovered the joy and versatility of quick stir-fries. This Savory Vegetable Stir-Fry Sauce is my secret weapon, combining a balance of salty, sweet, and umami flavors that elevate any mix of seasonal vegetables and plant-based proteins. With easy-to-find ingredients that won’t break the bank, this sauce is your go-to for creating a comforting and nutritious meal in no time. Whether you’re tossing in vibrant broccoli, crunchy carrots, or hearty tofu, this sauce brings harmony to every bite. Get ready to impress your taste buds and nourish your body with a quick meal that’s as delightful as it is simple!
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
soy sauce
2 (tablespoons)
Kikoman teriyaki sauce
1 (tablespoon)
agave nectar
1 (tablespoon)
mirin
1 (teaspoon)
toasted sesame oil
1 (teaspoon)
Huy Fong garlic and red chile paste
1 (teaspoon)
garlic clove, minced
1 (small)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, agave nectar, mirin, toasted sesame oil, garlic and red chile paste, and minced garlic. Whisk until well blended.
2
Prepare your vegetables and protein of choice, ensuring they’re chopped into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
3
Heat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil if desired.
4
Once the skillet is hot, add your vegetables, starting with those that take longer to cook, like carrots and broccoli. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes.
5
Once your last vegetable is added, pour the stir-fry sauce over the veggies and protein.
6
If using tofu, ensure it has been pressed and marinated in the sauce for at least 15 minutes before adding. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
7
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld.
8
Serve hot over rice, quinoa, or noodles, and enjoy your delicious, homemade stir-fry!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Vegetable Stir-Fry Sauce?
It is a quick, budget-friendly vegan sauce designed for college students that combines salty, sweet, and umami flavors to elevate seasonal vegetables and plant-based proteins.
Is this stir-fry sauce vegan?
Yes, the recipe uses plant-based ingredients like agave nectar and soy sauce, making it 100% vegan.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is portioned to serve 2 people.
What are the primary ingredients in the sauce?
The sauce consists of soy sauce, Kikoman teriyaki sauce, agave nectar, mirin, toasted sesame oil, Huy Fong garlic and red chile paste, and minced garlic.
How do I prepare the sauce?
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, agave nectar, mirin, sesame oil, chile paste, and minced garlic until well blended.
What brand of teriyaki sauce is recommended?
The recipe specifically recommends using Kikoman teriyaki sauce.
What type of chile paste should be used?
Huy Fong garlic and red chile paste is the suggested ingredient for this recipe.
How should I prepare the tofu for this recipe?
If using tofu, it should be pressed and marinated in the prepared sauce for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
What vegetables are suggested for the stir-fry?
Vibrant broccoli and crunchy carrots are mentioned as great options, though any seasonal vegetables work well.
How should the vegetables and protein be chopped?
They should be chopped into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking throughout the process.
What type of pan is best for cooking this stir-fry?
A non-stick skillet or a wok is recommended for the best results.
What heat setting should I use?
The skillet or wok should be heated over medium-high heat.
Do I need to use oil for frying the vegetables?
You can add a splash of oil to the hot skillet if desired before adding the vegetables.
In what order should I cook the vegetables?
Start with the vegetables that take longer to cook, such as carrots and broccoli.
How long should I stir-fry the vegetables initially?
The vegetables should be stir-fried for about 3 to 4 minutes before adding the sauce.
When do I add the stir-fry sauce to the pan?
Pour the sauce over the vegetables and protein once the final vegetable has been added to the skillet.
How long do I cook the mixture after adding the sauce?
Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
What are the best serving options for this dish?
Serve the stir-fry hot over a base of rice, quinoa, or noodles.
Why is this recipe considered budget-friendly?
It uses easy-to-find ingredients that are affordable and suitable for a college student's budget.
What is the flavor profile of the sauce?
The sauce provides a balanced harmony of salty, sweet, and umami flavors.
How many ingredients are in the sauce itself?
There are 7 key ingredients including the oils, sauces, and seasonings.
How much soy sauce is required?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of soy sauce.
How much agave nectar is used?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of agave nectar.
What is the purpose of mirin in the recipe?
Mirin adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the umami flavor profile of the sauce.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe calls for 1 small garlic clove, minced.
Is the sauce spicy?
It contains a teaspoon of red chile paste, which adds a mild kick, but it is primarily savory.
How much toasted sesame oil is used?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil for aroma and flavor.
Can I use this sauce for other proteins besides tofu?
Yes, while tofu is mentioned, the sauce is versatile enough to elevate any plant-based protein.
How can I ensure the vegetables cook evenly?
By cutting them into uniform bite-sized pieces and starting with the heartier vegetables first.
Is this a quick meal option?
Yes, it is designed as a quick meal that can be prepared in no time once the ingredients are prepped.