Delicious and Healthy Capcay: An Authentic Indonesian Stir-Fry Recipe

Ingredients

200 grams of chicken fillet, diced
2 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
1 small head of broccoli, cut into florets
100 grams of baby corn, halved
1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
2 teaspoons of cornstarch, dissolved in 3 tablespoons of water
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

Steps and instructions

Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and fry until it is fragrant.
Add the diced chicken fillet to the pan and stir fry until it is cooked through.
Add the carrots, broccoli, baby corn, and red bell pepper to the pan. Stir fry the vegetables for about 5 minutes, until they are tender but still crisp.
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and the cornstarch mixture.
Pour the sauce over the stir-fried chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce.
Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the Capcay hot, with steamed rice if desired.

Tools for making

Wok or Frying Pan - A large wok or frying pan is needed to stir fry the ingredients.
Knife - A knife will be required to dice the chicken fillet and thinly slice the carrots.
Cutting Board - A cutting board is necessary for chopping the vegetables.
Small Bowl - You will need a small bowl to mix the sauce ingredients.
Stirring Utensil - A spoon or spatula is needed for stirring the ingredients in the pan.

Recipe variations

Replace chicken fillet with beef, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option.
Add mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms, for extra flavor and texture.
Include other vegetables like snow peas, bok choy, or water chestnuts.
For a spicier version, add sliced chili peppers or chili flakes.
Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki sauce, hoisin sauce, or sweet and sour sauce.
Add a splash of lime juice or vinegar for a tangy twist.
Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for added freshness.
For a gluten-free option, use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce.
Include other seasonings like ginger, lemongrass, or garlic chili paste for more flavor variations.
Serve the Capcay over noodles instead of rice for a noodle stir-fry.

Recipe overview

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this easy and delicious Capcay recipe. This stir-fry dish brings together tender chunks of chicken and an array of colorful vegetables, all tossed in a savory sauce. It's a healthy and versatile recipe that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal. The best part is, you can easily swap in your favorite veggies or add tofu for a vegetarian twist. Get ready to wow your taste buds and enjoy this delightful culinary adventure!

Common questions

Can I use other vegetables in Capcay? Yes, you can customize the vegetable selection based on your preference. Some common additions include cabbage, mushrooms, snow peas, or bean sprouts.
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken? Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, pork, or tofu according to your dietary preferences.
Is Capcay gluten-free? The recipe itself is gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce. However, it's important to check the labels of the sauces you use to ensure they are free from gluten.
Can I make Capcay ahead of time? While Capcay is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply stir fry the ingredients and add the sauce.
Can I adjust the spiciness of Capcay? Yes, you can control the spiciness by adding or reducing the amount of chili or chili sauce in the recipe. You can also omit the chili altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.

Serving dishes and utensils

Wok - A large, deep pan with high sides, perfect for stir-frying the ingredients.
Frying pan - An alternative to the wok, can be used for stir-frying if a wok is not available.
Chopping board - Used for cutting and preparing the vegetables and chicken fillet.
Knife - Essential for slicing and dicing the ingredients.
Spatula - Used for stirring and flipping the ingredients while stir-frying.
Small bowl - To mix together the sauce ingredients.
Whisk or fork - Used to mix the cornstarch with water, ensuring it dissolves properly.
Measuring spoons - To accurately measure the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch.

Origin stories

Capcay, which is often referred to as the rainbow dish of Indonesia, owes its vibrant color to the wide variety of vegetables used. Originating from the Fujian province in China, its name literally translates to "ten vegetables" in Hokkien, a testament to the diversity of its ingredients. Chinese immigrants brought this dish to Indonesia, where it quickly became a staple, loved for its versatility and health benefits. Over the years, it has evolved to incorporate local ingredients and flavors, reflecting the melting pot of cultures in Indonesian cuisine. Today, you can find Capcay in virtually every corner of Indonesia, from humble street food stalls to high-end restaurants, each offering their unique take on this classic dish.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.