Broccoli in Garlic Sauce
Crisp-tender broccoli florets tossed in a savory, aromatic garlic sauce. This popular Chinese-American takeout classic is incredibly easy to make at home and ready in under 20 minutes.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Sauce and Vegetables
- b.Wash the broccoli and cut it into uniform, bite-sized florets. Peel and slice the stem if desired.
- c.Finely mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
- d.In a small bowl, whisk together the low sodium soy sauce, vegetable broth, cornstarch, sugar, toasted sesame oil, Shaoxing wine (if using), and white pepper (if using). Ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Blanch the Broccoli
- b.Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt.
- c.Prepare a large bowl of ice water and set it nearby.
- d.Carefully add the broccoli florets to the boiling water and cook for 60-90 seconds, until they turn a vibrant green and are crisp-tender.
- e.Using a slotted spoon, immediately transfer the broccoli from the boiling water to the ice bath. This stops the cooking process and preserves the color and crunch. Let it cool for 1 minute, then drain thoroughly.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Stir-fry the Aromatics and Broccoli
- b.Heat the avocado oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat until it just begins to shimmer.
- c.Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for 15-20 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- d.Add the drained, blanched broccoli to the wok. Toss everything together for about 1 minute to coat the broccoli in the aromatic oil.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Add Sauce and Serve
- b.Give the sauce mixture a final quick stir to recombine the cornstarch, then pour it into the wok over the broccoli.
- c.Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes as the sauce bubbles and thickens, coating each floret in a glossy glaze.
- d.Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the wok from the heat.
- e.Transfer to a serving platter and serve immediately with steamed rice.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1The secret to crisp, vibrant green broccoli is the blanch-and-shock method. Don't skip the ice bath!
- 2Stir-frying is a high-heat, fast-cooking process. Have all your ingredients prepped and within reach before you turn on the stove.
- 3Ensure your wok or skillet is very hot before adding the oil. This prevents the ingredients from sticking and creates the signature 'wok hei' flavor.
- 4Always re-whisk your sauce just before adding it to the wok, as the cornstarch will settle at the bottom.
- 5For a clean cut, slice broccoli florets through the stem, then gently pull them apart to avoid making a mess.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Protein
Toss in 200g of sliced chicken, peeled shrimp, or cubed firm tofu. Stir-fry the protein before the garlic and ginger, set aside, and add it back in with the broccoli.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
Include other quick-cooking vegetables like sliced carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, or water chestnuts. Add them to the wok with the broccoli.
Make it SpicyMake it Spicy
Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes with the garlic and ginger, or drizzle with a little chili oil or sriracha before serving.
Gluten Free VersionGluten-Free Version
Substitute the soy sauce with an equal amount of tamari or gluten-free soy sauce. Also, ensure your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Broccoli is an excellent source of Vitamin C, which boosts immunity, and Vitamin K, essential for bone health and blood clotting. It also provides a good amount of folate and potassium.
Packed with Antioxidants
Both broccoli and garlic are rich in antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Supports Heart Health
The fiber in broccoli and the allicin compound in garlic can help lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure, contributing to a healthier cardiovascular system.
Aids in Digestion
Broccoli is high in fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a very healthy dish. Broccoli is a superfood packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. The garlic sauce is light, and the stir-frying method uses minimal oil, making it a low-calorie, nutrient-dense side dish.