Oriental Celery And Peas
Oriental Celery And Peas is a quick, flavorful side dish featuring tender celery, sweet peas, and crunchy water chestnuts in a savory soy and wine sauce. Perfect for Asian-inspired meals or as a fresh vegetable complement, it offers a balanced blend of umami and crisp textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water to boiling in a large saucepan; add sliced celery and frozen peas.
- Cover and cook for 5 minutes or until the celery is almost tender.
- Drain the vegetables and leave them in the saucepan.
- Add salt, pepper, soy sauce, white wine, and sliced water chestnuts to the vegetables.
- Toss everything together to combine.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a brighter flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving. If you prefer a bit more heat, a dash of chili flakes can enhance the dish. You can also substitute fresh peas if available for a more vibrant taste. For a variation, add sliced bell peppers or snap peas for added crunch, a common feature in many stir-fried vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This Oriental Celery and Peas dish is a delightful side that pairs beautifully with Chinese Chicken Bites or alongside a bowl of steamed rice. For a complete meal, serve it with a protein such as tofu or grilled shrimp. It also complements well with a refreshing Chinese Coleslaw for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated evenly. Alternatively, you can warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oriental Celery And Peas contains roughly 118 calories, with 8g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and sauce ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, cook the vegetables and add the sauce, which should take just a few minutes. This makes it a great option for meal prep or when entertaining guests.
Is this dish suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegans as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that the soy sauce you use is labeled vegan. For added protein, consider serving it with tofu or a side of mixed grains to make it a fulfilling meal.
What can I substitute for water chestnuts?
If you can't find water chestnuts, you can substitute with sliced jicama or even raw carrot for a similar crunch. While the flavor will differ slightly, these alternatives will still add texture to the dish. Just remember to adjust cooking times if using a different vegetable.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).