This Easy Light Mince and Veggie Stir-Fry is quick to make and full of colorful veggies! With tender minced meat and fresh vegetables, it’s healthy and tasty.
You can use whatever veggies you have on hand. I love how it can be made in just one pan—less mess means more time to enjoy dinner! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vegetable Oil: Canola or sunflower oil works great here, but feel free to use olive oil if you prefer. It has a nice flavor, though it may not be as high heat-friendly.
Lean Minced Meat: Ground turkey is a healthier alternative if you want to lower fat content. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, consider using cooked lentils or tofu for protein.
Fresh Vegetables: You can swap in other vegetables like bell peppers, cauliflower, or carrots based on what you have. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary—harder veggies take longer to soften.
Oyster Sauce: This adds a wonderful depth of flavor, but if you’re avoiding it, try using hoisin sauce or simply skip it. The stir-fry will still taste great!
How Do I Get the Meat Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your minced meat just right adds a lot to the dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the meat. This helps it brown nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. If you crowd the pan, the meat will steam rather than sear.
- Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. This ensures even cooking and browning.
Cooking until the meat is no longer pink and has some color will enhance the dish’s overall flavor!
Easy Light Mince and Veggie Stir-Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (such as canola or sunflower oil)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
- 400 grams (14 oz) lean minced beef or turkey
- 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced or julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 100 grams (3.5 oz) broccoli florets
- 100 grams (3.5 oz) snap peas or green beans
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh spring onions, sliced for garnish
- Cooked rice or noodles, to serve
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making it just 25 minutes in total! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick, healthy, and delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s nice and hot before you add anything!
2. Sauté the Onion:
Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. It will start to smell amazing!
3. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds. You just want it fragrant—don’t let it burn!
4. Cook the Minced Meat:
Now it’s time to increase the heat to high and add your minced meat to the pan. Use a spatula to break it apart and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper for flavor.
5. Toss in the Veggies:
Add the sliced carrot, bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli, and snap peas to the pan. Stir-fry these for about 4-5 minutes, until the veggies are just tender but still have a nice crunch.
6. Add the Sauces:
Pour the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil over the stir-fry. Toss everything together well so all the flavors combine, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give your stir-fry a taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. If you want it saltier, add a bit more soy sauce or sprinkle in some pepper.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious mince and veggie stir-fry over cooked rice or noodles. Top with sliced spring onions for a fresh crunch. Enjoy this light, colorful, and nutritious meal!
Bon appétit! 🌟
Can I Use Different Types of Meat in This Stir-Fry?
Absolutely! You can substitute the lean minced beef or turkey with ground chicken, pork, or even a plant-based substitute like lentils or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust cooking times as needed if using different proteins.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute or Add?
You can use whatever vegetables you prefer or have on hand! Great alternatives include bell peppers, mushrooms, bok choy, or asparagus. Just remember that harder vegetables, like carrots, may take longer to cook, so add them first.
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just microwave until warmed through or toss in a hot pan for a quick heat-up!
Can I Make This Stir-Fry Ahead of Time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance by chopping the vegetables and measuring out sauces. However, it’s best to cook it just before serving for the freshest taste and texture. If making ahead, consider storing the cooked stir-fry separately from the rice or noodles to prevent sogginess.