Crispy Bean Sprout and Ham Stir-fry: Perfect for Lunch Boxes!
Crispy Bean Sprout and Ham Stir-fry: Perfect for Lunch Boxes!
The Ultimate Bean Sprout and Ham Stir-fry Recipe for Maximum Crunch
Discover how to make a delicious bean sprout and ham stir-fry where the crispiness of the sprouts shines, complemented by savory ham. This dish is perfect as a simple yet satisfying side for your lunchbox or as an accompaniment to meals. I’ll share the secret to preserving the sprouts’ delightful crunch!
Main Ingredients- Bean sprouts, 400g
- Canned ham, 1 can (about 1cm thick)
- Onion, 1 medium
- Green onion, 1 stalk (white part preferred)
Seasoning & Others- Salt, 1/2 tsp
- Minced garlic, 1 Tbsp
- Black pepper, a pinch
- Sesame seeds, a pinch
- Salt, 1/2 tsp
- Minced garlic, 1 Tbsp
- Black pepper, a pinch
- Sesame seeds, a pinch
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare all your ingredients. Rinse the bean sprouts thoroughly under running water and drain them well in a colander, ensuring they are completely dry. Slice the onion into thick strips and chop the green onion into bite-sized pieces. Cut the canned ham into strips about 1cm thick. You won’t need extra cooking oil as the ham will release its own fat.
Step 2
Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium-low heat. Add the sliced canned ham and cook slowly until it becomes golden brown and slightly crispy. The ham will release its natural oils, adding flavor and preventing the need for added cooking oil. This step enhances the ham’s savory profile.
Step 3
Once the ham is nicely browned, add the chopped green onions to the pan and stir-fry them together. The mild sweetness and aroma of the green onions will blend beautifully with the ham, adding depth to the dish. Cooking over medium-low heat prevents burning and ensures even cooking.
Step 4
When the green onions start to become slightly translucent, add the sliced onions. Stir-fry until the onions soften and turn transparent. The natural sweetness of the onions will mellow and balance the overall flavor of the dish.
Step 5
Add the minced garlic and stir-fry with the other ingredients for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. This step infuses the ingredients with a wonderful garlicky aroma.
Step 6
Turn the heat up to high. Add the thoroughly drained bean sprouts and stir-fry quickly for no more than a minute, just until they are slightly wilted. The key to this dish is to maintain the sprouts’ crispiness! Overcooking will make them soggy and lose their crunch. High heat and a quick stir-fry are essential for that signature snappy texture. The life of bean sprouts is their crunch!
Step 7
Finally, season with 1/2 tsp of salt and a pinch of black pepper. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and toss everything together gently. Adjust salt if needed, keeping in mind the saltiness of the canned ham.
Step 8
This stir-fry offers a delightful combination of the ham’s savory notes, the freshness of the vegetables, and the satisfying crunch of the bean sprouts. The ham’s strong flavor becomes milder, while the other ingredients gain a rich umami taste. It’s a surprisingly well-balanced and delicious dish! Make this for a fantastic lunchbox side.
