If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy side dish, then look no further than snow peas Chinese style. Snow peas are a type of pea that is native to Asia and has a crisp and sweet flavor. When cooked Chinese style, snow peas are stir-fried quickly to preserve their vibrant green color and maintain their crunchy texture.
To cook snow peas Chinese style, you’ll need a few key ingredients: snow peas, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. These ingredients are commonly used in Chinese cuisine and will give your snow peas an authentic and flavorful taste.
First, you’ll want to wash and trim the snow peas to remove any dirt or tough ends. Then, heat some oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and ginger and sauté for a minute or two until fragrant.
Tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic and ginger as it can quickly turn bitter.
Add the snow peas to the wok and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Be sure to keep the heat high and continue to stir the snow peas constantly to prevent them from burning.
Once the snow peas are cooked to your liking, drizzle them with soy sauce and sesame oil while still in the wok. Toss the snow peas in the sauce until they are evenly coated.
Finally, transfer the snow peas to a serving dish and garnish with some toasted sesame seeds for an extra crunch and nutty flavor. Snow peas Chinese style make a perfect side dish to accompany any Chinese-inspired meal, and they also pair well with grilled meats or seafood.
Enjoy this simple and delicious recipe for snow peas Chinese style!
What are snow peas?
Snow peas, also known as Chinese pea pods, are a type of pea that is commonly used in Chinese cuisine. They are characterized by their flat, edible pods and petite size. Snow peas are known for their crunchy texture and sweet flavor, which can add a refreshing touch to a variety of dishes.
The pods of snow peas are tender and delicate, and they contain very small seeds that are often barely noticeable when eaten. Unlike other types of peas, the pods of snow peas are the main focus, rather than the seeds. The pods are typically bright green in color and have a slightly translucent appearance.
Snow peas are often used in stir-fries, salads, and soups. They can be eaten raw or cooked, and they pair well with a variety of other ingredients. The crunchy texture of snow peas makes them a popular addition to stir-fries, as they provide a nice contrast to softer vegetables and meats.
Health benefits of snow peas
Snow peas are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are low in calories and fat, making them a healthy choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight. Snow peas are also a good source of fiber, which can aid in digestion and promote a healthy gut.
In addition to their fiber content, snow peas are rich in vitamins and minerals. They are a good source of vitamin C, which is important for supporting the immune system and collagen production. Snow peas also contain vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health.
Furthermore, snow peas are packed with antioxidants, which can help protect the body against cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and certain types of cancer.
How to select and store snow peas
When purchasing snow peas, look for pods that are bright green in color and free from blemishes or spots. The pods should be firm and crisp, without any signs of wilting or discoloration. Avoid snow peas that appear yellow or have a shriveled texture, as this may indicate that they are past their prime.
To store snow peas, place them in a breathable bag or container and store them in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within a few days to ensure optimal freshness and flavor.
To prepare snow peas for cooking, it is usually necessary to remove the strings that run along both sides of the pod. This can be done by snapping off the stem end of the pea and pulling it downwards, along with the string.
Now that you know more about snow peas, why not try incorporating them into your next Chinese-style dish? Their crisp texture and delicate flavor are sure to enhance any meal!
Chinese cuisine and snow peas
Chinese cuisine is known for its diverse flavors, fresh ingredients, and unique cooking techniques. It emphasizes the balance of colors, textures, and flavors in each dish. One vegetable that is commonly used in Chinese cooking is snow peas.
Snow peas, also known as sugar snap peas, are a popular vegetable in Chinese cuisine. They are often used for stir-fries, soups, and side dishes. Snow peas are known for their crisp texture and sweet flavor, making them a versatile ingredient in many Chinese dishes.
Stir-fried snow peas
One popular way to prepare snow peas in Chinese cuisine is by stir-frying them. To make stir-fried snow peas, start by washing and trimming the ends of the snow peas. Heat some oil in a wok or a large pan, then add garlic and ginger for flavor. Add the snow peas to the pan and stir-fry them for a few minutes until they become bright green and tender. Season with salt, soy sauce, and a pinch of sugar for added flavor. Serve hot as a side dish or as part of a stir-fry.
Snow pea soup
Another delicious way to incorporate snow peas into Chinese cuisine is by making snow pea soup. Start by heating some oil in a pot, then add chopped onions and garlic to sauté until fragrant. Add chicken or vegetable broth to the pot and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the snow peas and simmer for a few minutes until they become soft. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Chinese five-spice powder for extra flavor. Serve hot as a comforting and healthy soup option.
In conclusion, snow peas are a versatile and delicious vegetable commonly used in Chinese cuisine. Whether stir-fried or added to soups, snow peas bring a crisp texture and sweet flavor to dishes. Try incorporating snow peas into your Chinese cooking to add a fresh and vibrant element to your meals.
Ingredients
Before you start cooking snow peas Chinese style, make sure you have the following ingredients:
For the snow peas dish:
- 1 pound of fresh snow peas
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch
- 1/4 cup of water
For the optional garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
Note: You can adjust the quantity of the ingredients according to your preference and the number of servings you would like to make. Additionally, feel free to add other veggies or protein if desired.
What you will need
Before you start cooking snow peas Chinese style, make sure you have the following ingredients and equipment:
Ingredients:
- Snow peas – 1 pound
- Garlic cloves – 2 to 3 cloves, minced
- Ginger – 1-inch piece, grated or minced
- Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons
- Sesame oil – 1 tablespoon
- Salt – to taste
- Vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons
Equipment:
- Wok or a large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Bowl for soaking snow peas
- Strainer or colander
- Measuring spoons
Having these ingredients and equipment ready will ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process. Now, let’s move on to the next step – preparing the snow peas.
Preparation
Before you start cooking snow peas Chinese style, you need to gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Here is a list of what you will need:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of snow peas
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
- Salt to taste
Equipment:
- A wok or a large frying pan
- A wooden spoon or spatula
- A cutting board
- A sharp knife
- A small bowl
- A colander
Once you have gathered all the ingredients and equipment, you can move on to the next step, which is the preparation of the snow peas.
Start by rinsing the snow peas under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, use a knife to trim the ends of the snow peas, removing any tough parts. You can also remove the stringy fibers from the sides of the snow peas if desired, but this step is optional.
After trimming the snow peas, you can cut them into your desired size. Some people prefer to leave the snow peas whole, while others prefer to cut them diagonally into smaller pieces. The choice is up to you.
Once the snow peas are prepared, you can move on to the next step of the cooking process.
Trimming the snow peas
Before cooking snow peas Chinese style, it is important to properly trim them. To do this, follow these steps:
Step 1: Rinse the snow peas under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
Step 2: Use a pair of kitchen scissors or a sharp knife to trim off both ends of the snow peas. Cut off just enough to remove the tough stems.
Step 3: If desired, remove the stringy “vein” that runs along the length of the snow pea pod. Hold the pod firmly and use your other hand to gently pull the string down the length of the pod, removing it completely. This step is optional, but it can help improve the texture of the cooked snow peas.
Step 4: Once trimmed, pat the snow peas dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel before using them in your Chinese-style recipe.
FAQ
What are snow peas?
Snow peas are a type of edible podded pea that is commonly used in Chinese cuisine. They have flat, tender pods and are often used in stir-fries or steamed dishes.
How do I prepare snow peas for cooking?
To prepare snow peas for cooking, start by rinsing them under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, trim off the ends of the peas and remove any strings that may be attached. You can do this by snapping off the stem end and pulling it along the seams of the pod to remove the string. Once trimmed and cleaned, the snow peas are ready to be cooked.
What ingredients do I need to cook snow peas Chinese style?
To cook snow peas Chinese style, you will need the following ingredients: snow peas, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and vegetable oil. These simple ingredients will help to enhance the natural flavor of the snow peas and give them a delicious Asian flair.
What is the best way to cook snow peas Chinese style?
The best way to cook snow peas Chinese style is by stir-frying them. Heat some vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add minced garlic and ginger to the hot oil and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Then, add the snow peas to the pan and stir-fry them for 2-3 minutes, until they are crisp-tender. Finally, drizzle the snow peas with soy sauce and toss to coat. Serve immediately for a tasty and nutritious side dish.
Can I use snow peas in other Chinese dishes?
Absolutely! Snow peas are a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of Chinese dishes. They can be added to fried rice, noodle dishes, or even used in spring rolls. Their crisp texture and mild flavor make them a great addition to many different recipes.
What ingredients do I need to cook snow peas Chinese style?
To cook snow peas Chinese style, you will need snow peas, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper.