oyster sauce ingredient spotlight

Welcome to Our Ingredient Spotlight! We are excited to bring you a new edition of our Ingredient Spotlight, where we highlight a unique and versatile Asian ingredient that will enhance your culinary adventures. This week, we’re presenting the rich, savory world of Oyster Sauce.

Oyster Sauces

What is Oyster Sauce?

Oyster sauce is a thick, dark brown condiment made from oyster extracts, sugar, salt, and water, thickened with cornstarch. Originally created in China, this sauce has become a staple in many Asian cuisines, known for its umami flavor and its ability to enhance the taste of various dishes.

Oyster Sauce

Why You Should Use Oyster Sauce

  • Rich Umami Flavor: Oyster sauce adds a deep, savory taste to your dishes, making it an excellent addition to stir-fries, marinades, and sauces.
  • Versatility: It can be used in a variety of dishes including vegetables, meats, and seafood, bringing out the best in each ingredient.
  • Convenience: A little oyster sauce goes a long way, making it a cost-effective way to add depth and flavor to your meals.

Quick & Popular Asian Recipe: Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Oyster Sauce

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (reduced-sodium if preferred)
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 small carrot, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup snap peas
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooked brown rice, for serving

How To Make It:

  1. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Mix well and set aside.
  2. Cook the Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir-Fry the Chicken: Add the sliced chicken to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5-6 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
  5. Add the Vegetables: Add the bell pepper, carrot, broccoli florets, and snap peas to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
  6. Combine and Thicken the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet.
  7. Stir well to coat all the ingredients evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  8. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Serve the stir-fried chicken and vegetables hot over cooked brown rice.

Did You Know?

  • History: Oyster sauce was accidentally invented in the late 19th century by Lee Kum Sheung when he overcooked oysters, resulting in a thick, flavorful sauce.
  • Health Benefits: Made from oyster extracts, it contains essential minerals like zinc, which supports immune function, and selenium, which acts as an antioxidant. The sauce also provides vitamin B12, important for nerve health and red blood cell formation. Additionally, oyster sauce is relatively low in calories, making it a flavorful yet diet-friendly option for enhancing the taste of various dishes without adding excessive fats or sugars.