Are you looking for quick and delicious dinner ideas that will ignite your taste buds? Look no further! Spicy stir-fry recipes are a staple in many cuisines, from Asian-inspired dishes to Latin American flavors. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can whip up a flavorful meal in no time. In this article, we’ll explore 18 spicy stir-fry recipes that will elevate your dinner game and satisfy your cravings.
From classic beef and broccoli to more adventurous options like Szechuan pork and Kung Pao shrimp, these recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, you’ll find inspiration for quick and easy meals that are perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s ready in no time! This beef and broccoli stir fry is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables and protein in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, broccoli, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Add cooked beef back into the pan and stir to combine with broccoli mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spicy Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry
This recipe brings together succulent shrimp, savory garlic, and a kick of heat from chili flakes to create a flavorful and quick stir-fry dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Add the chili flakes, soy sauce, and honey to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegetable Tofu Stir Fry
This recipe is a quick and flavorful way to get your daily dose of vegetables and protein. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup snap peas, sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Cook onion and garlic until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return tofu to the pan and stir in soy sauce and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15 minutes
Chicken Teriyaki Stir Fry
This Asian-inspired dish is a staple for a reason – it’s fast, flavorful, and packed with protein. With just a few simple ingredients and some quick stir-frying, you’ll have a tasty meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in teriyaki sauce.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Szechuan Pork Stir Fry
This classic Chinese dish combines the bold flavors of Szechuan peppercorns and chili peppers with tender pork and crunchy vegetables, all stir-fried to perfection. A spicy and savory delight for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup chili flakes
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snow peas)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add pork; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Szechuan peppercorns, chili flakes, and mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for another minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry
A sweet and savory stir-fry that combines crispy chicken, crunchy sesame seeds, and a hint of honey, all in one delicious dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt. Pour over chicken and vegetables in the pan.
5. Stir-fry everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until chicken is coated with sauce.
6. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and cook for another minute.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry
A classic Thai dish that’s quick, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. This recipe combines the savory taste of chicken with the aromatic flavor of basil, all within a few minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 2 cups Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked jasmine rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan.
3. Add garlic, bell peppers, and Thai basil. Stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Return chicken to the pan, stirring in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over cooked jasmine rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ginger Soy Mushroom Stir Fry
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of ginger, soy sauce, and mushrooms in a quick and easy stir fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds.
3. Add mushrooms; cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their liquid and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey. Pour the mixture over the mushrooms and stir to combine.
5. Cook, stirring frequently, for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cashew Chicken Stir Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines the creamy richness of cashews with the tender taste of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup cashews, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, followed by the onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the chopped cashews and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemongrass Beef Stir Fry
Experience the bold flavors of Southeast Asia with this simple and delicious Lemongrass Beef Stir Fry recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine lemongrass, garlic, and soy sauce.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion and bell peppers to the pan and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the lemongrass mixture to the pan and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Return beef to the pan and stir-fry until combined with the sauce, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and oyster sauce (if using).
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kung Pao Shrimp Stir Fry
Kung Pao Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe
A classic Sichuan dish, Kung Pao shrimp stir fry is a spicy and savory treat that combines succulent shrimp with peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
– 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
– 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 2 teaspoons Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– Salt to taste
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Remove shrimp from wok; set aside.
5. In same wok, add peanuts, scallions, bell pepper, Sichuan peppercorns, soy sauce, cornstarch, and white pepper. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
6. Return shrimp to wok; stir-fry until coated with the sauce.
7. Season with salt and chili flakes (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Peanut Noodle Stir Fry
This spicy peanut noodle stir fry is a flavorful and protein-packed meal that combines the creaminess of peanut sauce with the spiciness of chili flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Chopped scallions and peanuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a blender, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, chili flakes, ginger, and garlic powder. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the peanut sauce mixture and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the wok and toss to coat with the peanut sauce.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with scallions and peanuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Ginger Vegetable Stir Fry
Transform your weeknight dinner with this aromatic and flavorful vegetable stir fry, infused with the pungency of garlic and spice of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snow peas)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the grated ginger and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and stir to combine with the garlic-ginger mixture.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet and Sour Pork Stir Fry
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of many Asian cuisines, with its perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors. This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork tenderloin or boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tablespoons sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add pork, onion, and garlic; cook until pork is browned and vegetables are tender (5-6 minutes).
3. Add bell peppers and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour sauce over the pork and vegetables; cook for 1 minute to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Black Pepper Tofu Stir Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe is a perfect combination of savory and spicy.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup black pepper, freshly ground
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry until they start to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add black pepper and soy sauce. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Return tofu to the pan and toss with the vegetables.
7. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Five-Spice Duck Stir Fry
This recipe combines the rich flavor of duck with the bold spices of five-spice powder, all wrapped up in a quick and easy stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless duck breast, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add duck and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok and set aside.
3. Add garlic and five-spice powder to the wok; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add soy sauce, chicken broth, and bell peppers to the wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Return duck to the wok and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Orange Chicken Stir Fry
This recipe is a flavorful twist on classic chicken stir fry, adding a burst of citrusy goodness from fresh orange segments. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. Add bell peppers; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, and honey.
5. Pour the mixture over the chicken and vegetables; stir to coat.
6. Cook for an additional minute to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Eggplant and Green Bean Stir Fry
A flavorful and quick stir-fry that combines the tender sweetness of eggplant with the crunch of green beans, all wrapped up in a savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the eggplant and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the eggplant from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and sauté the green beans for 2-3 minutes or until tender-crisp.
5. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) and bring to a simmer.
7. Return the eggplant to the pan and stir-fry everything together for about 1 minute, until coated with the sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these 18 mouth-watering stir fry recipes! From classic Beef and Broccoli to bold Szechuan Pork, and from succulent Shrimp to flavorful Tofu, there’s something for everyone. With a range of international flavors, including Thai Basil Chicken, Ginger Soy Mushroom, and Lemongrass Beef, you’ll never tire of the same old dishes. Plus, most recipes can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights. Try one (or two, or three…) tonight and ignite your taste buds!
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