Stir-Fried Broccoli
A Flavorful Chinese Delight
Stir-fried broccoli is a classic Chinese dish that highlights the vibrant green color and crisp texture of broccoli. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their meals while enjoying the rich, savory flavors of Chinese cuisine.
Ingredients
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Broccoli: 1 large head, cut into florets
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Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
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Red chili pepper: 1, sliced (optional, for added spice)
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Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
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Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons (light soy sauce preferred)
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Oyster sauce: 1 tablespoon (optional, for added richness)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Wash the broccoli thoroughly and cut it into small florets. If the stems are thick, peel the outer layer and cut them into thin slices to ensure even cooking.
- Blanch the Broccoli:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water (this helps to keep the broccoli bright green). Place the broccoli florets into the boiling water and blanch for about 1 minute.
- Shock in Cold Water:
- Remove the broccoli from the boiling water and immediately immerse it in cold water to stop the cooking process. This step, known as “shocking,” helps to retain the vibrant green color and crisp texture of the broccoli. Drain the broccoli well and set aside.
- Heat the Wok:
- Place a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the surface.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add the minced garlic . Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. If using red chili pepper, add it at this stage for a touch of spice.
- Add the Broccoli:
- Add the blanched broccoli florets and stems to the wok. Stir-fry for about 1 minutes until the broccoli is heated through and slightly tender.
- Season the Dish:
- Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir well to coat the broccoli evenly. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the broccoli is cooked to your desired tenderness.
- Serve:
- Transfer the stir-fried broccoli to a serving plate. Garnish with additional sliced red chili pepper or sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
Tips for Perfect Stir-Fried Broccoli
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High Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to quickly cook the vegetables and retain their crisp texture. Make sure your wok or pan is hot before adding the ingredients.
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Even Cooking: Cut the broccoli into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Blanching the broccoli helps to maintain its bright green color and crisp texture.
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Flavor Balance: Adjust the seasonings to your taste. You can add more soy sauce for saltiness, or a bit of sugar to balance the flavors if needed.