Skip to main content

Stir-Fried Garlic Chives with Chilli

This vibrant garlic chives stir-fry with chilli is a testament to the beauty of simple, fast cooking. Known for their distinctively mellow, garlicky flavour and tender texture, Chinese chives take centre stage in this vegan-friendly dish. When seared at high temperatures in a seasoned wok, the chives develop a wonderful char that perfectly complements the warmth of the dried red pepper flakes. It is a fragrant and savoury addition to any midweek meal rotation.

As a nutritious plant-based side dish, this recipe is incredibly versatile and can be prepared in less than ten minutes. The combination of heat, salt, and aromatics makes it an excellent partner for a bowl of fluffy steamed white rice or as part of a larger Chinese-inspired feast. Whether you are looking for a healthy vegan option or a quick vegetable accompaniment, these stir-fried greens deliver a satisfying crunch and a bold punch of flavour.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Stir-Fried Garlic Chives with Chilli

  • 1 tablespoon peanut oil

  • 350g green garlic chives (also called Chinese chives

  • flat parts only), cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces (600g )

  • 1 teaspoon dried hot red pepper flakes

  • Rounded 1/4 teaspoons salt, or to taste

  • Accompaniment: steamed white rice

  • a well-seasoned 14-inch flat-bottomed wok

How to make Stir-Fried Garlic Chives with Chilli

Heat wok over high heat until a drop of water vaporizes instantly upon contact. Add oil, swirling to coat wok evenly, and heat until hot and just smoking. Add chives and red pepper flakes and stir-fry, letting chives rest on bottom and sides of wok several seconds between stirs, until chives are tender and slightly browned, 2 to 4 minutes. Stir in salt. Serve over rice.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.