Well, if you’re reading this, you’re probably wondering what to serve with your stir fry, right? Maybe you’re bored of the typical white rice or you’re looking for something different to make your weeknight dinner a little more exciting. A stir fry alone can often leave you wanting a bit more. That’s where this guide comes in. Let’s explore some of the best side dishes to serve with stir fry instead of rice.
Rethinking the Side Dish for Stir Fry Beyond Fried Rice
Stir fries are easy to make, delicious, and often provide an excellent blend of protein and fresh vegetables. But who said you could only pair them with white rice? The key to a good stir fry is balance – pairing your stir fry with the right side dish can complement the main dish and make the meal more satisfying.
The Best Side Dish To Serve With Stir Fry Instead of Rice: Oodles of Noodles
One fantastic side dish to serve with stir fry is noodles. They are a staple in Asian cuisine, and there are so many types to choose from.
Zucchini Noodles
If you’re considering a healthier alternative to rice or noodles, zucchini noodles or “zoodles” might just be the perfect accompaniment to your stir fry. They are simple yet incredibly tasty and easy to make at home. Zucchini noodles not only complement the textures and flavors of stir fry, but they also make for a great low-carb option.
Rice Noodles
Swap your white rice with rice noodles. They pair perfectly with stir fry and offer a different texture that goes well with any type of stir fry sauce. A stir fry with one side of rice noodles makes a quick and easy meal.
Teriyaki Noodles
If you’re into flavors, then teriyaki noodles might be your favorite side. These noodles soaked in teriyaki sauce add a sweet and tangy flavor to your stir fry.
Stir Fry Dish Variations
Chicken Stir Fry
Chicken stir fry dishes can be heavy on their own. Thus, pairing them with something light like cucumber salad could bring a refreshing contrast to the palate.
Beef Stir Fry
With beef stir fry, consider serving side dishes like garlic bok choy. The subtle flavors of bok choy accentuate the robust flavor of beef.
Vegetable Stir Fry
For a vegetable stir fry, noodles or spring rolls can add a delightful crunch and variation in flavor.
Spring Rolls: A Crispy Side Dish
Crispy and savory, spring rolls are an excellent side dish for any stir fry. Their crunchy texture provides a nice contrast to the often saucy and juicy stir fry dishes. Whether you serve vegetarian or meat-filled spring rolls, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Greens to Consider Serving Side Dishes: Bok Choy & Cucumber Salad
Bok Choy
Bok choy is an Asian green that tastes amazing when cooked with simple seasoning. A side of garlic bok choy cooked with a dash of soy sauce, salt, and pepper makes a healthy and delicious stir fry side dish.
Cucumber Salad
A cool cucumber salad, seasoned with some rice vinegar, can be a refreshing side dish for a spicy or rich stir fry. The crispness of the cucumber pairs well with the diverse textures in a stir fry.
Garlic Bok Choy
Garlic bok choy is another green to consider. Sauteed with a bit of garlic and drizzled with sesame oil, this side dish can take your stir fry dinner to the next level.
Soups to Serve with Stir Fry: Egg Drop Soup and Hot and Sour Soup
Hot and Sour Soup
Hot and sour soup, rich with flavors of soy sauce, vinegar, and several sides of different vegetables, can serve as a wonderful prelude to your stir fry main course.
Egg Drop Soup
Egg drop soup is another traditional option that can pair well with stir fry. Its rich, silky texture and mild flavors provide a great contrast to the robust flavors in a stir fry.
Other Delightful Sides: From Scallion Pancakes to Sesame Miso Sauce
Scallion Pancakes
If you’ve never had scallion pancakes, you’re missing out. These crispy, flaky pancakes are bursting with flavor and make a great side dish to any stir fry.
Sesame Miso Sauce
A side of sesame miso sauce could be a great addition to your stir fry dinner. This sweet and savory sauce works well if you want to add a burst of flavor to your meal.
Wrapping It All Up!
While rice might be the conventional side dish, trying something new can bring a different dimension to your stir fry experience. Whether it’s noodles, greens, soups, or pancakes, there’s a world of options out there waiting for you to explore. So why not take your stir fry game to the next level and give these delicious sides a try?
FAQs
What are some healthy side dishes to serve with stir fry?
Zucchini noodles, cucumber salad, and garlic bok choy are all healthy and delicious alternatives.
Can I serve more than one side dish with my stir fry?
Absolutely! Serving a variety of sides can make your meal even more satisfying and enjoyable.
Do I always need to serve a side dish with stir fry?
While stir fry can be a complete meal on its own, side dishes often complement the main course and create a more balanced meal.
What are some quick and easy sides to serve with stir fry?
Rice or noodles, cucumber salad, and spring rolls are all quick and easy to prepare.
Can I make these side dishes ahead of time?
Yes, many side dishes like cucumber salad or spring rolls can be made ahead of time, making your cooking process even more effortless.
