Dish

Qiang xi nan hua cai

Stir-Fried Southern Style Vegetables

Qiang xi nan hua cai is made by stir-frying a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and snow peas in a wok with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. The dish has a savory, slightly spicy flavor and a crunchy texture. It is a good source of fiber and vitamins, but it is high in sodium due to the use of soy sauce. It is suitable for vegetarians and vegans, but not for those with a soy allergy.

Asian cuisine› Chinese cuisine

Stir-fry

Origins and history

Qiang xi nan hua cai is a popular dish in Sichuan cuisine, which is known for its bold and spicy flavors. It originated in the southwestern region of China and has been a staple in Sichuan cuisine for centuries.

Dietary considerations

Suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Not suitable for those with a soy allergy. High in sodium due to the use of soy sauce.

Variations

There are many variations of Qiang xi nan hua cai that use different types of vegetables or seasonings. Some recipes also add tofu or meat for extra protein. One popular variation is to add Sichuan peppercorns for a numbing, tingling sensation in the mouth.

Presentation and garnishing

To best present Qiang xi nan hua cai, arrange the stir-fried vegetables on a large platter and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. To reduce the sodium content of the dish, use low-sodium soy sauce or reduce the amount of soy sauce used in the recipe.

Tips & Tricks

When stir-frying the vegetables, make sure to cook them quickly over high heat to maintain their crunchiness. It's also important to cut the vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

Side-dishes

Qiang xi nan hua cai pairs well with other Sichuan dishes like mapo tofu or dan dan noodles. It can also be served with rice or noodles as a main course. Some popular side dishes include steamed buns, pickled vegetables, or a simple cucumber salad.

Drink pairings

Qiang xi nan hua cai pairs well with light, refreshing drinks like green tea or a cold beer. For those who prefer something sweeter, a glass of iced honey lemon tea is a good choice.