Summer Breeze Stir-Fry A Lung-Clearing Delight for the Warm Season

Ah, summer—the season of sunshine, warmth, and vibrant flavors. However, with the rising temperatures comes the inevitable dryness and irritation to our respiratory systems. That's where our Summer Breeze Stir-Fry comes in, a lung-clearing delight that promises to refresh your senses while nourishing your body. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a natural remedy for those pesky allergies and dry throats that often accompany the warmer months.

Ingredients:

- 200g of mixed vegetables (snap peas, bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli)

- 100g of asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces

- 150g of tofu, cubed

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 inch of ginger, grated

- 1 cup of green tea, brewed and cooled

- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce

- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil

- 1 teaspoon of honey

- 1 teaspoon of sesame seeds

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Vegetable oil for stir-frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop the mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Trim and cut the asparagus into similar sizes. Press the tofu between paper towels to remove excess water, then cut into cubes.

2. Season the Tofu: In a bowl, combine the tofu cubes with a bit of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

3. Marinate the Vegetables: In another bowl, mix the minced garlic and grated ginger with the brewed and cooled green tea. Add the mixed vegetables and asparagus, ensuring they are evenly coated with the green tea mixture. Set aside for at least 10 minutes.

4. Stir-Fry: Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated tofu and stir-fry until golden brown on all sides. Remove the tofu from the wok and set it aside.

5. Cook the Vegetables: In the same wok, add a bit more oil if needed. Add the marinated vegetables and asparagus, and stir-fry until they are tender-crisp. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

6. Combine and Serve: Add the stir-fried tofu back into the wok. Mix well with the vegetables. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey. Pour the sauce over the stir-fry, stirring to coat everything evenly. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

7. Serve: Serve your Summer Breeze Stir-Fry immediately while it's still hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or alone as a light meal. Enjoy the refreshing taste of summer while reaping the benefits of a lung-clearing meal.

Health Benefits:

- Lung-Clearing: The combination of green tea and its antioxidants helps to flush out toxins and reduce inflammation in the lungs.

- Hydration: The cooling properties of the green tea and the high water content in the vegetables keep you hydrated during the hot summer days.

- Nutrient-Rich: The mixed vegetables provide an array of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium, which are essential for overall health and immune support.

So, as the summer sun beats down, remember to bring a breath of fresh air to your table with this Summer Breeze Stir-Fry. It's a simple, healthy, and delicious way to keep your lungs clear and your taste buds satisfied.