There’s something magical about the vibrant crunch of snow peas, especially when they’re tossed in a sizzling wok with fragrant ginger and savory Chinese sausage. I first encountered this delightful dish at a small family-run restaurant, where the aroma wafting from the kitchen instantly drew me in. The moment I took a bite, I knew I had to recreate that bold flavor at home.
This Snow Peas with Chinese Sausage recipe is not just a feast for the senses; it’s a breeze to whip up in just 15 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a quick lunch, it combines the sweetness of snow peas with the rich, umami essence of Chinese sausage, elevating your home-cooked meals beyond the ordinary. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal fuss, you’ll impress your family or guests, carving out a moment of culinary joy amidst the chaos of everyday life.
Are you ready to bring this quick and satisfying dish to your table? Let’s dive in!
Why is Snow Peas with Chinese Sausage a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of ginger and Chinese sausage adds a savory depth that will tantalize your taste buds.
Vibrant Colors: The bright green snow peas not only taste great but also make for a stunning presentation.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap the sausage for chicken or tofu to cater to your dietary needs without compromising on taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a recipe that caters to friends, family, or just a cozy dinner for one, ensuring everyone leaves happy!
Make sure to check out more delicious side dishes like this one for a complete meal!
Snow Peas with Chinese Sausage Ingredients
Get ready to create a delightful dish that bursts with flavor!
For the Stir-Fry
- 2 tablespoons oil – Use sesame oil for extra nutty flavor, or any neutral oil if you prefer.
- 3 thin slices ginger – Fresh ginger adds aromatic warmth that complements the sausage beautifully.
- 3 cloves garlic – Minced for a lovely burst of flavor; feel free to add more for extra zest!
- 2 links Chinese sausage – Look for sweet or savory variants to fit your taste; a great source of umami.
- 1/2 medium onion – Sliced to add sweetness and texture; yellow onions are a good choice.
- 8 ounces snow peas – Fresh snow peas are essential; they provide that vibrant crunch and sweet taste.
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine – This Chinese rice wine enhances the dish with depth, but cooking sherry is a good substitute.
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper – A gentle kick; adjust to your heat preference!
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil – Drizzle for added richness and flavor that marries perfectly with the other ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Helps balance the flavors; taste before adding more since the sausage may be salty.
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, you’re just a step away from savoring this Snow Peas with Chinese Sausage dish that celebrates delicious simplicity!
How to Make Snow Peas with Chinese Sausage
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Heat the Oil: Start by heating 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-low heat. Carefully add 3 thin slices of ginger and let them cook for about 20 seconds until fragrant.
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Sauté Garlic and Sausage: Next, toss in 3 cloves of minced garlic along with 2 links of Chinese sausage. Increase the heat to medium and sauté everything together for about 1-2 minutes, until the fat in the sausage turns translucent.
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Add Onions and Snow Peas: Stir in 1/2 medium onion, sliced, along with 8 ounces of fresh snow peas. Mix everything well to ensure all the flavors combine beautifully.
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Season the Stir-Fry: Pour in 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine, 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir-fry everything for 1-2 more minutes, adding a splash of water if it seems too dry.
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Check for Doneness: The dish is ready when the snow peas are a bright green color and the onions remain crisp yet tender. They should still have a bit of crunch!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and texture.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Snow Peas with Chinese Sausage Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize your dish in delightful ways!
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Vegetarian Swap: Use tofu or tempeh instead of Chinese sausage for a protein-packed, plant-based alternative. The result remains deliciously flavorful!
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Flavor Boost: Add a splash of soy sauce or oyster sauce to elevate the umami experience. A little goes a long way, enhancing the dish’s richness beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili for an appealing heat. Just enough to wake up your taste buds while keeping it enjoyable.
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Nutty Addition: Sprinkle crushed cashews or peanuts on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the freshness of snow peas.
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Citrus Zest: Brighten your dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice just before serving. The citrus adds a refreshing twist that complements the savory flavors.
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Herb Infusion: Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a burst of color and freshness. They bring a light, aromatic layer that enhances every bite.
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Mixed Veggies: Incorporate other veggies like bell peppers or carrots for additional color and texture. This variation not only increases nutrients but also makes it a more robust dish.
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Rice Noodle Twist: Toss in cooked rice noodles to transform this dish into a hearty main course. The noodles soak up the flavors, creating a satisfying meal that’s both filling and wholesome.
Make Ahead Options
These Snow Peas with Chinese Sausage are perfect for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can chop the onions, mince the garlic, and slice the ginger up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can pre-cook the Chinese sausage and snow peas, then refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat everything in a wok with the oil and follow the final cooking instructions, adding the Shaoxing wine and seasonings. This way, you’ll have a delicious, quick dish ready to savor in minutes—just as vibrant and flavorful as if you made it from scratch!
What to Serve with Snow Peas with Chinese Sausage?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing your vibrant stir-fry with delightful accompaniments.
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Jasmine Rice: The fluffy fragrance of jasmine rice complements the saltiness of the sausage and absorbs the delicious flavors perfectly. It’s a classic foundation that turns your meal into a comforting feast.
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Steamed Bok Choy: This tender, slightly sweet green adds a refreshing contrast to the dish’s richness, while its delicate crunch enhances the meal’s texture. A simple steaming locks in nutrients and flavor!
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Egg Fried Rice: Simple yet satisfying, fried rice brings warmth and heartiness. The eggs add protein and a surge of flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the sausage and ginger.
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Spicy Szechuan Noodles: For a kick of flavor, spicy noodles create an exciting contrast to the sweetness of the snow peas. The heat will awaken your palate and take dinner to a whole new level!
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Garlic Cucumber Salad: This crisp, cooling salad balances the richness of the dish while providing refreshing brightness. Tossed with a bit of sesame oil and soy sauce, it’s an excellent way to cleanse your palate.
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Chilled Lychee Drink: For a refreshing beverage, the sweet and floral notes of lychee create a beautiful contrast to the savory stir-fry, making every bite even more delightful.
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Mango Sticky Rice: End your meal on a sweet note with this dessert. The creamy coconut and ripe mango wrap up your dining experience with a luscious and fragrant finish.
Your table is now ready for an unforgettable meal!
Expert Tips for Snow Peas with Chinese Sausage
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Choose Fresh Peas: Fresh snow peas are key for crunchiness. If they seem limp, opt for another bag for the best flavor.
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Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the snow peas; they should remain bright green. Overcooking makes them soggy, losing that delightful texture!
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Balance Flavors: Adjust the soy sauce and salt based on the saltiness of your Chinese sausage. Taste as you go for the perfect finish!
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Prep Ingredients First: To ensure smooth cooking, pre-chop all ingredients. This makes stir-frying quick and enjoyable without any chaos.
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Add Crunch: For an extra layer of texture, toss in some toasted sesame seeds right before serving. They pair beautifully with the snow peas with Chinese sausage!
How to Store and Freeze Snow Peas with Chinese Sausage
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to retain texture.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the dish in a sealed freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to restore moisture and prevent sticking. Enjoy your snow peas with Chinese sausage fresh!
Room Temperature: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and not suitable for room temperature storage beyond 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Snow Peas with Chinese Sausage Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best snow peas?
Absolutely! When selecting snow peas, look for vibrant, bright green pods that feel firm and crisp. Avoid any with dark spots or wilting, as these can indicate overripeness. Fresh snow peas should snap easily when bent.
What’s the best way to store leftover snow peas with Chinese sausage?
After enjoying your delicious dish, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet on medium heat to warm gently, adding a splash of water as needed to retain moisture.
Can I freeze snow peas with Chinese sausage?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a sealed freezer bag or container. It will maintain good quality for up to 1 month. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What should I do if my dish looks too dry?
Very! If your stir-fry looks dry while cooking, don’t hesitate to add a tablespoon of water and continue to stir. This not only adds moisture but also helps to deglaze the pan, bringing out all those fantastic flavors. Always aim for a bright green color in your snow peas for perfect doneness!
Is this recipe safe for pets or individuals with allergies?
While Snow Peas with Chinese Sausage is a delicious meal for humans, be cautious if sharing with pets, particularly dogs, as onions and garlic can be harmful to them. Additionally, those with soy allergies should ensure that the sausage used is free from soy products or may want to substitute with a suitable alternative like chicken or tofu.
Can I modify the ingredients for dietary preferences?
The more the merrier! If you’re looking to adapt the recipe, feel free to substitute the Chinese sausage for sliced chicken, tofu, or even mushrooms. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly, especially for proteins to ensure they are fully cooked. You can also make it vegetarian by skipping the sausage altogether for a deliciously light dish!
Savor Snow Peas with Chinese Sausage in Just 15 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by heating 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-low heat. Carefully add 3 thin slices of ginger and let them cook for about 20 seconds until fragrant.
- Next, toss in 3 cloves of minced garlic along with 2 links of Chinese sausage. Increase the heat to medium and sauté everything together for about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in 1/2 medium onion, sliced, along with 8 ounces of fresh snow peas. Mix everything well.
- Pour in 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine, 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir-fry everything for 1-2 more minutes.
- The dish is ready when the snow peas are a bright green color and the onions remain crisp yet tender.
