Description
This Broccoli with Garlic Sauce is proof that vegetables don’t have to be boring. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can turn fresh broccoli florets into a crave-worthy side dish that’s bursting with Chinese-inspired flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of broccoli (about 4 cups florets)
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1/4 cup water
- Cornstarch slurry: 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
- Optional: chili flakes or chili crisp
Instructions
- Blanch or steam the broccoli. This should take just 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll know the florets are ready when they’re bright green and tender. We’ll finish cooking them in the wok. Drain and set aside. If needed, check out this helpful guide: How to Blanch Broccoli.
- Sauté the garlic. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once hot, add the garlic and sauté, stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
- Add the sauce ingredients. Stir in the white pepper, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and 1/4 cup water. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Thicken the sauce with cornstarch. Once simmering, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another minute, or until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Add the broccoli. Toss in the broccoli and stir to coat evenly. Let it cook for another minute to soak up the sauce and become fork-tender.
- Season and serve. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve immediately while hot, as desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Storage: Allow the broccoli to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a hot skillet or microwave until warmed through. The broccoli will be softer when enjoyed as leftovers, but it will be even more flavorful!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side
- Method: Stove Top