STIR-FRIED ASPARAGUS AND BASIL WITH SPICY ORANGE SAUCE

Stir-Fried Asparagus and Basil with Spicy Orange Sauce image

Provided by Food Network

Yield Serves 4 as a side dish

Number Of Ingredients 8

1/3 cup orange juice
1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon hot red pepper flakes, or more to taste
1 1/2 pounds asparagus
4 teaspoons roasted peanut oil
2 medium garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon minced fresh gingerroot
1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves

Steps:

Combine the orange juice, soy sauce, and hot red pepper flakes in a small bowl and set aside.
Snap off the tough ends of the asparagus. If the asparagus are thin, cut them on the diagonal into 2-inch pieces. If the asparagus are average or thicker, cut the spears in half lengthwise and then on the diagonal in 2-inch pieces.
Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large nonstick skillet set over high heat. When the oil is shimmering but not smoking, add the asparagus and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Push the asparagus to the sides of the pan and place the garlic and ginger in the center. Drizzle the remaining 1 teaspoon oil over the garlic and ginger. Cook until fragrant, about 20 seconds. Add the orange juice mixture, toss to coat well, and cover. Cook until the asparagus are tender, 2 to 3 minutes, depending on the thickness of the spears.
Remove the cover and add the basil. Stir-fry until the sauce has reduced to a thick glaze, about 30 seconds. Serve immediately.