Garlic broccoli is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that's quick to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy. Its vibrant green color and aromatic garlic sauce make it a visually appealing and delicious addition to any meal. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is accessible and adaptable to your taste preferences. The combination of tender-crisp broccoli florets and pungent garlic creates a delightful balance of textures and tastes, making it a perfect side dish or a light and healthy main course. You can easily adjust the amount of garlic to suit your preference, and even add a touch of chili for a spicy kick.
This recipe celebrates the fresh, clean flavors of the ingredients, allowing the natural goodness of the broccoli to shine through. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the broccoli to creating the irresistible garlic sauce. Ready to learn how to make this incredibly easy and delicious garlic broccoli? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- wok
- knife
- cutting board
Ingredients
- Tender stem broccoli
- Garlic: 6 large cloves
- Ginger: a little bit
- Salt: a good pinch
- Ground black pepper: a good pinch
- Sugar: half a teaspoon
- Chicken stock: 100ml
- Wine: a little glug (dry white wine or Chinese rice wine recommended)
- Corn flour/cornstarch: 2 teaspoons
- Sesame oil: a splash
- Cooking oil: 3-4 tablespoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Finely chop the garlic and ginger. Soak them in water before stir-frying to prevent burning.
- Rinse the broccoli under cold water and trim the ends of the stems. Cut the stems into bite-sized pieces and slice diagonally for presentation. Keep the heads intact.
Step 2. Stir-fry the Broccoli
- Heat the wok over high heat. Add the oil, swirling to coat the wok.
- Add the garlic and ginger to the hot wok. Be careful as it may spit due to the water.
- Add the broccoli stems to the wok and stir-fry.
- Add salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir well.
- Add the broccoli heads and stir-fry.
Step 3. Create the Garlic Sauce
- Add chicken stock and wine. Stir.
- Add corn flour/cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Finish with a splash of sesame oil.
Read more: Authentic Chinese Mapo Tofu Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Soaking garlic and ginger in water before stir-frying prevents burning.
- Stir-frying the thicker stems first ensures even cooking.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before stir-frying to prevent excess moisture.
2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite chili oil to the garlic sauce for extra heat.
3. What can I serve this dish with?
This garlic broccoli pairs perfectly with steamed rice, noodles, or as a side to any protein like chicken, pork, or tofu.
This simple yet elegant recipe delivers a burst of fresh flavor in minutes. Enjoy the satisfying crunch of the broccoli and the fragrant garlic sauce – a perfect balance of textures and tastes. We hope you savor every bite of this delicious and healthy Chinese-inspired dish!