Chinese stir-fried vegetables became popular in Indian restaurants through Indo-Chinese cuisine, where high-heat wok cooking creates crisp textures and bold flavour. This restaurant-style mix vegetable follows that classic technique: quick tossing, balanced seasoning, and a light cornflour-thickened sauce that coats without overpowering. It works well year-round because the vegetables are simple and widely available. The method preserves colour and crunch, making it both visually striking and satisfying.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
1 tablespoonOil
1 teaspoonFinely chopped garlic
1 teaspoonFinely chopped ginger
¼ cupSliced onion
¼ cupSliced carrot
¼ cupBroccoli florets
¼ cupSliced capsicum (green bell pepper)
¼ cupSliced cabbage
¼ cupFrench beans (cut into 1-inch pieces)
1 tablespoonLight soy sauce
½ teaspoonBlack pepper powder
½ teaspoonSalt
1 teaspoonCornflour
¼ cupWater (for slurry)
½ cupWater (for sauce base)
Follow
Directions
Description - Step 1
Mix Slurry
In a small bowl, combine cornflour with ¼ cup water and stir until completely smooth. There should be no lumps at the bottom. This slurry is what gives the vegetables their signature light glaze. Keep it ready near the stove so it can be added quickly later.
Description - Step 2
Heat the Wok
Place a wok or wide pan over a high flame and add oil. Let the oil heat properly before adding anything else. Proper heat ensures the vegetables sear instead of steam, which is essential for achieving restaurant-style texture.
Description - Step 3
Sauté Aromatics
Add finely chopped garlic and ginger. Stir continuously for about 20 seconds until aromatic. Avoid browning, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and affect the final taste.
Description - Step 4
Cook Firm Vegetables
Add carrots, French beans, and broccoli first since they require slightly longer cooking. Stir-fry on high heat while tossing frequently. The goal is partial cooking while maintaining firmness and a bright colour.
Description - Step 5
Add Soft Vegetables
Add onion, capsicum, and cabbage. Continue stir-frying with quick movements. The vegetables should soften slightly but remain crisp. Overcooking will dull the colour and texture.
Description - Step 6
Season Base
Pour in light soy sauce, salt, black pepper, and ½ cup water. Toss thoroughly so the seasoning spreads evenly across all vegetables. Let it come to a brief simmer.
Description - Step 7
Thicken Sauce
Stir the prepared cornflour slurry once and pour it slowly into the wok while stirring. Cook until the sauce thickens lightly and forms a shiny coating. It should not become heavy or sticky.
Description - Step 8
Final Toss
Give the vegetables one final high-heat toss to ensure even coating. Switch off the flame once the sauce looks glossy and the vegetables remain crisp-tender. Serve immediately.