Flavorful Stir-Fried Snap Peas and Mushrooms with Fish Sauce and Basil
High-heat searing preserves crunch and color, while basil adds a fresh, aromatic lift.
Stir-fries are celebrated for their quick cooking techniques and layers of bold, aromatic flavors. This recipe for stir-fried snap peas and mushrooms with fish sauce and basil exemplifies that magic. By pairing snappy sweet peas with savory mushrooms, flavor-packed fish sauce, and fresh basil, you get a side dish that bursts with umami and freshness—ready on the table in just about 20 minutes. Whether you’re spicing up weeknight dinners or seeking a punchy addition to your usual Asian-inspired meal rotation, this vibrant stir-fry is sure to impress.
Why This Stir-Fry Works
- Balanced Ingredients: The sweetness of snap peas mixes with the earthy notes of mushrooms for a well-rounded flavor profile.
- Fish Sauce Depth: Just a few spoonfuls of fish sauce add savory complexity and a distinctive umami punch.
- Fresh Basil Finish: Thai basil brings herbal brightness and a peppery pop that rounds out the dish.
- Quick Cooking: Everything cooks fast over high heat, locking in crisp textures and vibrant colors.
Key Ingredients
- Sugar Snap Peas: Their sweet, juicy crunch is central to the stir-fry’s texture.
- Mushrooms: Cremini (baby bella), shiitake, or oyster mushrooms all work. Each adds rich umami and absorbs savory sauces beautifully.
- Fish Sauce: This fermented condiment is the flavor backbone—salty, pungent, and deeply savory. Use high-quality brands for best results.
- Garlic and Shallots: Aromatics that introduce a sweet-spicy foundation to the stir-fry.
- Thai Basil: More assertive and peppery than sweet basil, Thai basil’s anise undertones complement the whole dish.
- Neutral Oil: Use a high smoke point oil like canola, peanut, or grapeseed for intense wok cooking.
Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
Preparing a successful stir-fry is both technique and timing. Here’s how you can ensure every bite turns out perfect:
1. Prep All Ingredients First
- Trim the tough strings from both sides of each snap pea.
- Slice mushrooms, mince garlic, and thinly slice shallots.
- Roughly chop or pick the basil leaves from stems.
Tip: Having everything ready before starting ensures quick, even cooking without rushed chopping mid-recipe.
2. Sear Mushrooms for Maximum Flavor
- Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until shimmering.
- Add mushrooms in a single layer. Cook undisturbed until browned on one side, then toss to brown on the other sides.
- Remove mushrooms from the skillet once evenly browned; set aside.
This browned edge unlocks mushroom flavor and texture, preventing sogginess later on.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- Add a bit more oil if the pan is dry. Toss in the snap peas and onions or shallots. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, until snap peas turn bright green and onions start to soften.
- Add garlic and stir just until fragrant, about 30 seconds; avoid burning.
4. Finish With Sauce and Basil
- Return mushrooms to the pan with the snap peas.
- Add fish sauce, a pinch of sugar, and optionally a splash of water or chicken stock to help everything come together.
- Toss until everything is evenly coated and heated through (about 1 minute).
- Remove from heat. Fold in Thai basil just before serving for bright, herbal aroma.
Complete Ingredients List
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Sugar snap peas | 1 lb (450g), trimmed |
| Mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or oyster) | 8 oz (225g), sliced |
| Shallot or red onion | 1 small, thinly sliced |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Thai basil leaves | 1 cup, lightly packed |
| Fish sauce | 2-3 tbsp (to taste) |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 tsp |
| Neutral oil (canola, peanut, or grapeseed) | 2 tbsp (more as needed) |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
| Optional: chicken stock or water | 2 tbsp |
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Essential Tips for Stir-Fry Success
- High Heat is Key: Always let the oil heat up until shimmering before adding vegetables for maximum sear and minimal sog.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook mushrooms in batches if needed so they brown instead of steam.
- Quick Cooking: Overcooked snap peas lose their crunch, so sauté just until they go vivid green and glossy.
- Season to Taste: Fish sauce is potent—start with less and add to your preference. Adjust with a bit of sugar or a squeeze of lime if desired.
- Add Basil Off Heat: Stir in basil after removing from flame to preserve its aroma.
Variations on the Classic Recipe
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out fish sauce for soy sauce or vegetarian “fish sauce” alternatives. Add a splash of rice vinegar for extra depth.
- Add Protein: Sauté thinly sliced beef, chicken, shrimp, or tofu first and set aside; fold into veggies just before finishing.
- Spice It Up: Add thinly sliced fresh chili or a pinch of chili flakes for some heat.
- Swap Greens: Substitute snow peas, green beans, or asparagus if snap peas aren’t in season.
- Herb Experimentation: Use regular Italian basil or even cilantro or mint for a different herbal twist.
Pairings and Serving Suggestions
- On Its Own: This stir-fry can serve as a light lunch or dinner with steamed jasmine rice.
- Side Dish: Ideal alongside grilled or roasted seafood, chicken, or pork.
- Noodle Bowls: Toss with rice noodles or vermicelli for a vegetable-forward main course.
- Garnish: Finish with extra basil leaves, a drizzle of sesame oil, or toasted sesame seeds.
Nutritional Benefits
This stir-fry is as nutritious as it is flavorful. Snap peas and mushrooms are both low in calories and rich in vitamins, fiber, antioxidants, and minerals. Fish sauce provides a source of essential amino acids and introduces deep, satisfying flavor, minimizing the need for extra salt or heavy sauces.
| Ingredient | Health Benefits |
|---|---|
| Snap Peas | High in fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, antioxidants |
| Mushrooms | Rich in B vitamins, selenium, potassium, immune-supporting compounds |
| Garlic & Shallots | Support heart health, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial |
| Thai Basil | Rich in antioxidants, supports digestive health |
Stir-Frying: Technique and Origins
Stir-frying originated in Chinese cuisine as a method to cook quickly over very high heat, keeping vegetables crisp and flavors concentrated. The aromatics (garlic, shallots), umami seasonings, and herbs in this recipe are rooted in Southeast Asian cooking traditions—especially Thai and Vietnamese, where fish sauce and fresh herbs are used liberally. The “wok hei” (breath of a hot wok) is essential for adding depth; use the heaviest pan you own if you don’t have a wok!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- For best texture and flavor, serve immediately after cooking. If needed, reheat quickly in a hot pan—avoid microwaving to maintain the snap of peas and mushrooms.
- What’s the best substitute for Thai basil?
- If Thai basil is unavailable, use sweet basil or a mix of basil and fresh mint for a similar aromatic lift.
- Is there a vegetarian alternative to fish sauce?
- Yes! Look for vegetarian “fish sauce” made from soybeans or use light soy sauce with a dash of rice vinegar.
- Can I add other vegetables?
- Definitely. Bell pepper strips, baby corn, or thinly sliced carrots all work well. Just cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
- Is this dish spicy?
- No, though it is aromatic and savory. Add chilies for a spicy kick.
Quick Recap: How to Make Stir-Fried Snap Peas and Mushrooms with Fish Sauce and Basil
- Trim and prep all ingredients in advance.
- Sear mushrooms until brown, set aside.
- Stir-fry snap peas with shallots/onions, add garlic.
- Return mushrooms, add fish sauce and sugar, toss to coat.
- Off heat, fold in Thai basil. Serve immediately.
Final Thoughts
This easy stir-fry showcases the beauty of fresh vegetables and the powerful punch of Southeast Asian flavors. With snap peas and mushrooms as the canvas, and fish sauce plus Thai basil as bold finishing touches, the dish is a lesson in fast, beautiful home cooking. Try it once, and you’ll likely find yourself making it anytime you crave something savory, fresh, and deeply satisfying.
More Stir-Fry Inspiration
- Spicy Chinese Long Beans with Garlic
- Mixed Summer Vegetable Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy
- Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry
For more quick, healthy, and vibrant recipes, explore more Thai-inspired stir-fry combinations!
References
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