Stir-Fried Broccoli with Garlic Sauce
Crisp-tender broccoli florets tossed in a savory, aromatic garlic sauce. This classic Chinese-American side dish comes together in under 15 minutes, making it the perfect healthy addition to any weeknight meal.
For 4 servings
3 steps. 7 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Ingredients and Sauce
- b.Wash and cut the broccoli into uniform, bite-sized florets. Ensure they are completely dry.
- c.In a small bowl, whisk together the low sodium soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, 1 tablespoon of water, cornstarch, sugar, and white pepper. Mix until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Aromatics and Broccoli
- b.Place a large wok or skillet over high heat until it just begins to smoke.
- c.Swirl in the neutral oil, then immediately add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for 15-20 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
- d.Add the broccoli florets to the wok. Stir-fry continuously for 2 minutes, ensuring each floret is lightly coated with oil.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Steam and Finish
- b.Pour the remaining 1 tablespoon of water around the edges of the wok, then immediately cover with a lid. Let the broccoli steam for 2-3 minutes, or until it turns a vibrant green and is crisp-tender.
- c.Uncover the wok. Give the prepared sauce a quick stir to recombine, then pour it all over the broccoli.
- d.Stir constantly for 30-60 seconds as the sauce bubbles, thickens, and coats the broccoli evenly.
- e.Remove the wok from the heat. Drizzle with toasted sesame oil and sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if using). Toss one last time and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Ensure your wok or skillet is very hot before adding the oil. This is key to achieving the characteristic 'wok hei' flavor and keeping the broccoli crisp.
- 2Have all your ingredients prepped and measured before you start cooking. Stir-frying is a very fast process.
- 3Don't overcrowd the pan. If you double the recipe, cook the broccoli in two batches to ensure it stir-fries rather than steams.
- 4For extra green broccoli, you can blanch the florets in boiling salted water for 60 seconds, then immediately plunge them into an ice bath before stir-frying. Dry them thoroughly before adding to the wok.
- 5The broccoli is perfectly cooked when it's bright green and you can pierce the stem with a fork, but it still has a noticeable bite.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Protein
Make it a main course by adding 250g of cubed firm tofu, sliced chicken breast, or shrimp. Stir-fry the protein first, set it aside, and add it back in with the sauce.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
Incorporate other quick-cooking vegetables like sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, snow peas, or carrots. Add carrots with the broccoli and softer vegetables in the last minute of stir-frying.
Gluten FreeGluten-Free
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, and ensure your Shaoxing wine is gluten-free or use dry sherry.
Nutty FlavorNutty Flavor
Sprinkle a tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds or chopped cashews over the finished dish for added texture and flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Broccoli is an excellent source of Vitamin C, which boosts the immune system, and Vitamin K, essential for bone health. It also provides a good amount of folate, potassium, and iron.
High in Fiber
The high fiber content in broccoli aids in digestion, promotes a healthy gut microbiome, and can help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Supports Heart Health
Compounds in broccoli, like sulforaphane, along with its fiber and potassium content, may help reduce cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and support overall cardiovascular health.
Powerful Antioxidants
Both broccoli and garlic are loaded with antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Frequently asked questions
Each serving of this Stir-Fried Broccoli with Garlic Sauce contains approximately 120 calories, making it a light and healthy side dish.