Celery with lily bulbs, a light yet elegant Chinese dish, balances crispness, sweetness, and subtle fragrance. Here’s a classic recipe to recreate it at home.
Ingredients: 300g celery (trimmed and cut into 2-inch segments), 150g fresh lily bulbs (separated and washed), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp cooking oil, 1 tsp soy sauce, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp sugar, and 1 tsp sesame oil.
Steps:
1. Prep: Blanch lily bulbs in boiling water for 30 seconds, then drain. Blanch celery segments for 1 minute, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
2. Stir-fry: Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant (about 10 seconds).
3. Combine: Add celery and stir-fry for 1 minute. Toss in lily bulbs, then season with soy sauce, salt, and sugar. Stir-fry for another 30 seconds until well-coated.
4. Finish: Drizzle sesame oil, toss gently, and serve immediately.
Key Tips: Blanching ingredients quickly preserves their crunch and vibrant color. Avoid overcooking to maintain the delicate texture. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, offering a healthy, flavorful addition to any meal. Enjoy the harmony of earthy lily bulbs and refreshing celery!