Why Make This Recipe
Garlic broccoli is a simple and delicious dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. This recipe is quick to prepare and makes a perfect side dish for any meal. It’s a great way to get more vegetables on your plate and impress your family or guests with minimal effort.
How to Make Garlic Broccoli
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- Vegetable oil for stir-frying
Directions:
- Prepare the Broccoli: Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to slightly soften it, then drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, cornstarch, and water until smooth.
- Stir-fry the Garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir-fry the Broccoli: Add the blanched broccoli to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the sauce over the broccoli and stir-fry for another minute, or until the sauce has thickened and coats the broccoli evenly.
- Serve: Serve immediately over rice or as a side dish.
How to Serve Garlic Broccoli
Garlic broccoli makes a great side dish to accompany grilled meats, tofu, or rice dishes. Serve it hot straight from the pan for the best flavor. You can also add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions on top for added texture and taste.
How to Store Garlic Broccoli
If you have leftovers, let the garlic broccoli cool down first. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent it from drying out.
Tips to Make Garlic Broccoli
- Always blanch the broccoli for a better texture and color.
- Adjust the sauce ingredients to your taste. If you like it spicier, you can add some red pepper flakes.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
Variation
You can add other vegetables to the dish like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. Feel free to toss in some cooked chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking.
2. Is the oyster sauce necessary?
No, the oyster sauce is optional. You can omit it or substitute it with a vegetarian sauce if you prefer.
3. Can I make this dish without soy sauce?
Yes, you can use tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.
Garlic Broccoli
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large head large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 4 cloves cloves garlic, minced Use fresh garlic for best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce Tamari can be used as a gluten-free alternative.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional) Can be omitted or substituted with vegetarian sauce.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil for stir-frying
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to slightly soften it, then drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, cornstarch, and water until smooth.
Stir-fry
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the blanched broccoli to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Pour the sauce over the broccoli and stir-fry for another minute, or until the sauce has thickened and coats the broccoli evenly.
Serve
- Serve immediately over rice or as a side dish.