fried cashew nuts with celery

How to Make Celery with Cashews: A Simple Guide

Celery with cashews is a quick, healthy, and delicious dish that balances crunch, freshness, and nutty flavor. Perfect as a side or light meal, here’s an easy step-by-step guide.

Ingredients:

- 2 stalks celery, washed and sliced diagonally into 1-inch pieces

- ½ cup raw cashews

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

- 1 teaspoon sesame oil

- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance flavors)

- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

Instructions:

1. Prep the Cashews: Heat ½ tablespoon vegetable oil in a wok or skillet over medium-low heat. Add cashews and toast for 2–3 minutes until golden. Remove and set aside.

2. Stir-Fry Celery: In the same pan, heat the remaining oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in celery slices and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.

3. Season: Add soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the celery.

4. Combine and Serve: Return the toasted cashews to the pan. Stir gently for 1 minute to heat through. Garnish with red pepper flakes (optional) and serve warm.

Tips: For extra crunch, blanch celery in boiling water for 1 minute before stir-frying. Customize with carrots or bell peppers for color. Enjoy this vibrant dish in under 15 minutes!