Sesame Stir-Fry Carrots

Prep: 10 min Cook: 5 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: Asian

A vibrant stir-fry featuring sweet carrots coated with sesame seeds and ginger, enhanced by a touch of molasses, perfect for a quick, flavorful side dish.

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Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp. instant minced onion
  • 2 Tbsp. water
  • 3 Tbsp. butter or margarine
  • 4 c. thinly sliced carrots
  • 2 Tbsp. sesame seed
  • 1/2 tsp. ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/8 tsp. ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp. molasses or sugar

Instructions

  1. Rehydrate minced onion in water for 10 minutes.
  2. In a large skillet, melt butter over moderate heat.
  3. Add rehydrated onion, sesame seed, ground ginger, salt, black pepper, and molasses to the skillet.
  4. Cook and stir over moderate to high heat until carrots are just crisp-tender, about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in molasses and cook for an additional minute before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider using fresh ginger instead of ground ginger; it offers a more vibrant taste. If you prefer a sweeter profile, honey can be used as a substitute for molasses. To enhance the sesame flavor, toast the sesame seeds lightly before adding them to the dish. This recipe is also versatile; try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for a colorful stir-fry.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Sesame Stir-Fry Carrots as a vibrant side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish, or pair it with a bowl of rice for a satisfying vegetarian meal. It complements well with dishes like Baked Brie With Strawberries And Kiwi Fruit, bringing a sweet and savory balance to your meal. Garnish with additional sesame seeds for a decorative touch.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent the carrots from drying out. This will help maintain the dish's flavor and texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sesame Stir-Fry Carrots contains roughly 82 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.

82 kcal 4% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.8g 4% DV
Total Fat 4.2g 5% DV
Carbs 11g 4% DV
Fiber 2.1g 7% DV
Sugar 4.3g 9% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 358.1mg 16% DV
Potassium 188mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 0.3mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 15.8mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 0.2mg
Calcium 59.3mg 5% DV
Iron 1.2mg 7% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Sesame

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 use frozen carrots for this recipe?

While fresh carrots offer the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen carrots as a substitute. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can make the stir-fry soggy.

What if I don't have sesame seeds?

If you don't have sesame seeds, you can skip them or substitute with chopped nuts like cashews or almonds for added crunch. Alternatively, a drizzle of sesame oil can add a similar flavor profile to the dish.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat to your Sesame Stir-Fry Carrots, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha during cooking. This will elevate the dish with a spicy kick while still allowing the other flavors to shine.

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).

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