Savory Seaweed and Celery Greens Stir Fry
If you’re looking for a dish that is bursting with unique flavor, incredibly fast to make, and uses up an ingredient you might normally throw away, you’ve come to the right place. This stir-fry is a true game-changer. Ready in just 10 minutes from start to finish, it’s the perfect weeknight side dish. The cooking technique is a simple, high-heat stir-fry, which makes it perfect for even novice cooks. The flavor profile is a delightful surprise: the fresh, slightly peppery taste of celery leaves meets the savory, umami-rich chewiness of kelp, all brought together with a fragrant kick of garlic and a touch of heat. It’s light, crisp, and so delicious you’ll want to eat it straight from the pan. Before we get cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity, but don’t let the short list fool you; the flavors are bold and satisfying. For the Stir-Fry: Celery Leaves: A generous handful, from one bunch of celery. Don’t throw these flavor-packed greens away! Kelp: 150g (about 5.3 ounces). This is the star of the show, providing a wonderful savory flavor and chewy texture. You can typically find this in Asian grocery stores, either dried (which will need rehydrating) or, more conveniently, pre-cooked and shredded in refrigerated packages. What is Kelp? Kelp (or haidai) is a type of large, edible seaweed. It’s packed with nutrients and has a distinct umami taste. Good Substitutions: If you can’t find kelp, you can use rehydrated wakame seaweed, which is commonly used in miso soup. For a non-seaweed alternative, finely shredded kale or Swiss chard can work, though the flavor profile will shift from oceanic to more earthy. Garlic: 2-3 cloves, thinly sliced. Fresh Red Chili: 1 small chili, or to taste. This adds a gentle warmth. Substitution: A…