Winter is the excellent time to explore the warmth and comfort of stir-fry recipes. These dishes bring a burst of flavors and colors to your table, making the chilly days more enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for traditional classics or adventurous new tastes, this collection of 17 stir-fry recipes will provide you with plenty of inspiration. Embrace the art of stir-frying, where fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and quick cooking create satisfying meals that are both nourishing and exciting.
1. Ginger Beef Stir-Fry
Ginger Beef Stir-Fry is a delightful fusion of tender beef slices and the zesty kick of fresh ginger. Start by slicing 500g of beef into thin strips. Marinade with 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and a pinch of white pepper for 20 minutes. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok over high heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger, stirring until aromatic. Toss in the beef, searing until browned. Add sliced green bell peppers and a splash of oyster sauce, stirring for another 3 minutes. Serve with steamed jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. This dish combines the richness of beef with the invigorating zest of ginger is a heartwarming meal.
2. Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry
Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry brings tropical sweetness to your winter menu. Begin with 400g of cubed chicken breast. Marinate in a mixture of 2 tablespoons soy sauce and 1 tablespoon honey for 15 minutes. In a hot wok, add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and cook the chicken until golden. Remove and set aside. In the same wok, add 1 sliced red bell pepper, 1 green bell pepper, and 150g of pineapple chunks. Stir-fry for 3 minutes. Return the chicken to the wok, adding 2 tablespoons of sweet chili sauce and a dash of water. Stir well to combine flavors. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. The dish’s sweet and savory profile will transport your taste buds to a sunny, tropical beach.
3. Tofu and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Tofu and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a vegetarian delight that’s as nutritious as it is tasty. Dice 300g of firm tofu into cubes, and marinate in 2 tablespoons soy sauce for 10 minutes. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok. Add tofu, frying until golden on all sides. Remove from the wok and set aside. In the same wok, add more oil if necessary, and toss in 200g of broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 2 minutes. Reintroduce the tofu, adding 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce and a splash of water. Cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring the broccoli remains crisp. Serve hot, topped with toasted sesame seeds. This dish offers a blend of textures and a savory taste that satisfies any palate.
4. Spicy Squid Stir-Fry
Spicy Squid Stir-Fry is an ocean-inspired dish that brings a fiery twist to the table. Clean and slice 300g of squid into rings. Marinate with 1 tablespoon fish sauce and a pinch of black pepper for 10 minutes. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok, adding 3 chopped red chilies and 2 minced garlic cloves. Stir-fry until aromatic. Add the squid rings, cooking for just 2 minutes to keep them tender. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. Serve immediately. The combination of spicy chilies and tender squid will excite your senses, offering a unique winter meal that resonates with bold flavors.
5. Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry
Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry is a beloved classic that pairs well with any meal. Cut 400g of chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Marinate in a mixture of 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch for 15 minutes. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok, adding the chicken. Stir-fry until browned, then remove and set aside. In the same wok, toast 100g of cashews until golden, then add 1 sliced onion and 1 chopped red bell pepper. Stir for 2 minutes. Return the chicken to the wok, along with a sauce made from 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and a splash of water. Combine well, and serve hot. Enjoy the crunchy cashews paired with tender chicken.
6. Mushroom and Spinach Stir-Fry
Mushroom and Spinach Stir-Fry is a quick and easy dish that showcases earthy flavors. Begin by slicing 250g of button mushrooms. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok, then add the mushrooms. Stir-fry until they release their juices. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and continue to stir for 1 minute. Toss in 150g of fresh spinach leaves, stirring until wilted. Season with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and a pinch of white pepper. Serve immediately, perhaps with a side of brown rice. This dish’s simplicity highlights the natural flavors of mushrooms and spinach, offering a nutritious and warming meal.
7. Peanut Chicken Stir-Fry
Peanut Chicken Stir-Fry is a creamy, comforting dish excellent for chilly nights. Slice 400 g chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons oil and cook the chicken until golden. Add 1 sliced red bell pepper and stir-fry for 3 minutes. In a bowl, mix 3 tablespoons peanut butter, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon honey, and 100 ml water until smooth. Pour the sauce into the skillet, toss to coat, and cook for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with 2 chopped green onions and serve with 200 g cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal.
8. Lemon Chicken Stir-Fry
Lemon Chicken Stir-Fry is a refreshing option for those seeking a citrus-infused meal. Dice 400g of chicken breast and marinate in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, juice of 1 lemon, and zest of half a lemon for 15 minutes. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok, adding the marinated chicken. Stir-fry until browned. Remove and set aside. In the same wok, add 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, a splash of water, and 1 teaspoon of honey. Return the chicken, tossing to coat in the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with thin lemon slices. This stir-fry brings a zesty zest to your table, excellent for brightening chilly days.
9. Sesame Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry
Sesame Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry is a delightful combination of tender beef and crisp asparagus. Slice 400g of beef into thin strips, marinating with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil for 15 minutes. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok, adding the beef. Stir-fry until browned. Remove and set aside. In the same wok, add 200g of sliced asparagus, stirring for 2 minutes. Return the beef, adding 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Stir well to combine. Serve hot, enjoying the savory beef and fresh asparagus with a hint of sesame. This dish provides a healthy and flavorful winter meal.
10. Eggplant and Basil Stir-Fry
Eggplant and Basil Stir-Fry is a fragrant vegetarian dish with a hint of spice. Cut 300g of eggplant into cubes. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok, adding the eggplant. Stir-fry until soft. Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 finely chopped red chili. Stir well, then toss in a handful of fresh basil leaves. Cook for another minute. Serve promptly, perhaps with jasmine rice. The fresh basil leaves add a lovely aroma and a burst of flavor to the tender eggplant. This dish offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes, making it a comforting choice for cold days.
11. Garlic Prawn Stir-Fry
Garlic Prawn Stir-Fry is a seafood lover’s dream, bursting with flavors of the ocean. Peel 400g of prawns and marinate with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 2 minced garlic cloves for 10 minutes. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok, adding the marinated prawns. Stir-fry until pink and juicy. Add 1 sliced spring onion and a pinch of black pepper. Stir for another minute before serving hot. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, allowing the garlic-infused prawns to shine. The simplicity of the ingredients highlights the natural taste of prawns, making it a delightful winter treat.
12. Honey Soy Chicken Stir-Fry
Honey Soy Chicken Stir-Fry offers a sweet and savory experience that’s both comforting and satisfying. Cut 400g of chicken breast into strips and marinate with 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and 2 tablespoons of honey for 15 minutes. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok, adding the chicken. Stir-fry until cooked through, then remove and set aside. In the same wok, add 1 sliced carrot and 1 sliced green bell pepper, stir-frying for 3 minutes. Return the chicken to the wok, tossing to coat in the glaze. Serve immediately, savoring the balance of sweet honey and savory soy. This dish brings warmth and satisfaction to your winter meals.
13. Teriyaki Tofu Stir-Fry
Teriyaki Tofu Stir-Fry is a vegetarian dish that dazzles with its sweet and savory teriyaki glaze. Cube 300g of firm tofu and marinate with 2 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce for 10 minutes. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok, adding the tofu. Stir-fry until golden on all sides. Remove and set aside. In the same wok, add 1 sliced red bell pepper and 1 sliced onion, cooking for 2 minutes. Return the tofu to the wok, along with an additional 2 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce. Stir well to coat, and serve hot, perhaps with steamed rice. The teriyaki sauce adds a delightful sweetness to the tofu for a comforting meal.
14. Pepper Steak Stir-Fry
Pepper Steak Stir-Fry brings a robust flavor with a peppery punch. Slice 400g of steak into thin strips, marinating with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper for 15 minutes. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok, adding the steak. Stir-fry until browned. Remove and set aside. In the same wok, add 1 sliced green bell pepper and 1 red bell pepper, cooking for 2 minutes. Return the steak, adding 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce and a splash of water. Stir well to combine. Serve hot, enjoying the bold flavors and tender steak. This dish offers a satisfying and hearty option for winter dining.
15. Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry
Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry is an aromatic dish that evokes the flavors of Thailand. Start by slicing 400g of chicken breast into strips. Marinate in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of fish sauce for 15 minutes. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok, adding 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 chopped red chili. Stir-fry until fragrant. Add the chicken, cooking until browned. Toss in a handful of fresh basil leaves, stirring for another minute. Serve hot, capturing the essence of Thai cuisine. This dish provides a flavorful experience, excellent for bringing some exotic warmth to your winter menu.
16. Caramelized Onion and Beef Stir-Fry
Caramelized Onion and Beef Stir-Fry offers a rich and savory taste, excellent for cold days. Slice 400g of beef into strips. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok, adding 2 sliced onions. Stir-fry until caramelized. Add the beef, cooking until browned. Toss in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and a splash of water, stirring well to combine. Serve hot, perhaps with a side of mashed potatoes. The sweet caramelized onions complement the savory beef is a warming and satisfying meal. This dish brings depth and comfort to your winter dining experience.
17. Szechuan Vegetable Stir-Fry
Szechuan Vegetable Stir-Fry is a flavorful, spicy dish packed with crisp textures. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a wok and stir-fry 150 g broccoli florets, 100 g snow peas, and 100 g sliced carrots for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp. Add 100 g sliced water chestnuts for extra crunch. In a bowl, mix 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons chili paste, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 50 ml water to make the Szechuan sauce. Pour the sauce over the vegetables, toss well, and cook for 2 minutes. Garnish with 1 tablespoon sesame seeds and serve with steamed rice for a complete meal.