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Carrot and Peas Stir Fry

This simple stir fry features fresh carrots and peas cooked quickly in a hot pan with soy sauce and garlic, resulting in a vibrant, crisp-tender dish. The bright vegetables are coated with savory flavors, creating a comforting, nostalgic flavor profile with a final appearance of colorful, lightly caramelized vegetables. It’s a quick, honest dish perfect for a nourishing weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large carrots peeled and julienned into thin matchsticks
  • 1 cup frozen peas rinsed under cold water to thaw
  • 3 cloves garlic minced finely
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce light splash to coat vegetables
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil vegetable or canola oil, shimmering hot
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil optional, for finishing

Equipment

  • Large wok or deep skillet
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Heat your wok or skillet over medium-high until shimmering, and add the neutral oil. Feel it heat up quickly, and wait until it just starts to smoke slightly.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and stir immediately. Cook for about 15-20 seconds until fragrant and golden around the edges, filling your kitchen with a warm, spicy aroma.
  3. Toss in the julienned carrots and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. You’ll see them turn a bright orange and start to soften slightly, with edges beginning to caramelize just a little. Keep stirring to prevent sticking.
  4. Add the rinsed peas to the pan and stir-fry everything together for another 2 minutes. The peas will crackle gently and turn a vivid green, staying crisp and juicy with a slight pop when you bite into them.
  5. Pour the soy sauce evenly over the vegetables and quickly toss to coat everything thoroughly. If using sesame oil, drizzle it now for a toasty aroma. Stir everything for an additional 30 seconds until the vegetables are bright, slightly caramelized, and fragrant.
  6. Remove the pan from heat and give everything a final toss. Taste a carrot for crispness and sweetness—adjust seasoning if needed with a tiny pinch of salt or pepper. Serve immediately while the vegetables are still vibrant and crispy.