Broccoli Oriental
A quick and savory vegetable side featuring tender broccoli and water chestnuts in a buttery soy sauce glaze with a hint of red pepper, perfect for Asian-inspired meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli and water chestnuts in a medium pan, covered, in a small amount of boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Drain and keep warm.
- In the same saucepan, melt the butter.
- Stir in soy sauce and ground red pepper.
- Heat thoroughly.
- Pour over the cooked broccoli and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding sliced bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrition. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of ground red pepper. Make sure to not overcook the broccoli, as it should be bright green and tender-crisp. This dish pairs beautifully with Chinese Style Fried Rice for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Broccoli Oriental as a delightful side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It can also be enjoyed as part of a vegetarian meal, paired with rice or quinoa. For added flair, garnish with sesame seeds or sliced scallions before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or sauté in a pan with a little butter to restore its texture. Avoid overheating to prevent the broccoli from becoming mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Oriental contains roughly 79 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (170% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 774mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but adjust the cooking time as it may cook faster. Ensure to thaw it before cooking to maintain the right texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative. Both will provide a similar umami flavor to the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish holds up well for meal prep. Just store the broccoli and sauce separately until ready to eat to keep the broccoli fresh and vibrant.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).