Broccoli stir-fry is a quick and healthy dish packed with flavor and nutrients. This recipe combines the vibrant green color of fresh broccoli with a savory sauce and a perfect balance of textures. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian side dish or a light main course, broccoli stir-fry is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
- For the Stir-fry:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium-sized carrot, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons water
- For the Stir-fry Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for added depth)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for a touch of sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Garnish (optional):
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Fresh coriander or green onions (chopped)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Begin by washing and cutting the broccoli into small florets. If you prefer, you can also peel and slice the stem into thin pieces for added texture.
- Slice the carrot, bell pepper, and onion thinly to ensure even cooking.
- Mince the garlic and grate the ginger for the sauce.
2. Make the Stir-Fry Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more honey or maple syrup. For extra tang, add more vinegar.
3. Cook the Stir-fry:
- Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor).
- Once the oil is hot, add the garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets, sliced carrots, and bell pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften but still retain some crunch.
- Add the sliced onion and stir-fry for another 2 minutes. If the vegetables are sticking to the pan, add a tablespoon of water to create steam and help them cook.
4. Combine the Sauce:
- Pour the prepared stir-fry sauce over the vegetables. Toss everything together until the sauce evenly coats the vegetables.
- Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the vegetables are cooked but still vibrant and tender-crisp.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the stir-fry to a serving plate. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and fresh coriander or green onions.
- Serve the broccoli stir-fry hot as a side dish with steamed rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a light, healthy meal.
Tips:
- Customize with Protein: Add tofu, tempeh, or your choice of meat (chicken, shrimp, or beef) for a more substantial meal.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or snap peas to the stir-fry.
- Spice it up: If you like more heat, add fresh chili slices or a dash of sriracha to the stir-fry sauce.
- Make it Vegan: Skip the oyster sauce or substitute with a vegan-friendly version.
Why This Recipe is Great:
- Nutrient-packed: Broccoli is a powerhouse of vitamins (like C, K, and A), fiber, and antioxidants.
- Quick and Easy: This stir-fry comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Customizable: Whether you want to keep it vegetarian, vegan, or add protein, this recipe adapts to your needs.
Enjoy this delicious and healthy broccoli stir-fry as a tasty addition to your meal rotation!
