Perfectly Balanced Stir-Fry for a Quick Weeknight Dinner

In today's busy world, finding a quick yet nutritious meal can be quite the challenge. However, stir-fry offers a perfect solution to this problem. This versatile dish is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly delicious and adaptable to various ingredients. Let’s explore how you can create a balanced and tasty stir-fry for your weeknight dinner.

The keyword for today's article is stir-fry. Stir-fry is a popular cooking technique that involves quickly cooking small pieces of meat, seafood, or vegetables in oil over high heat. This method not only enhances the flavor but also preserves the nutrients present in the ingredients.

Ingredients and Servings

This stir-fry recipe serves 4 people and can be prepared in approximately 30 minutes. You will need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb (approx. 450g) of chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 1 small head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 2 carrots, julienned
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or any cooking oil of your choice
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide to Prepare Your Stir-Fry

The first step in creating a delicious stir-fry is preparing all your ingredients. Wash and cut the vegetables into appropriate sizes so that they cook evenly.

Cooking Process:

1. Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Once hot, add the sliced chicken breast and stir-fry until it turns golden brown on both sides.
2. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pan using tongs and set aside. Wipe out any excess oil if necessary to avoid burning your vegetables next.
3. Now, lower down the heat slightly and add another 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in minced garlic cloves and stir until fragrant. This usually takes about 30 seconds - don’t let it burn!
4. Add your broccoli florets followed by carrots; continue stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. The vegetables should be cooked until they become bright green but still retain some crispness.
5. Once the vegetables are ready, return the stir-fried chicken back into the pan. Season with soy sauce and a pinch of salt for added flavor. Mix well ensuring everything is evenly coated.
6. If desired, drizzle sesame oil over top before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if available.

Cooking Time:** Approximately 30 minutes including preparation time.Servings: For a family of four, this dish provides ample portions making it perfect for sharing.