Chinese Broccoli
Bright, flavorful Chinese broccoli seasoned with a savory soy and sesame marinade, perfect as a quick vegetable side or chilled salad for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil together in a large bowl to create the marinade.
- Reserve one bunch of broccoli. Wash, trim, and cut the broccoli into medium, uniform pieces. Peel off tough stems if desired.
- Steam the broccoli until crisp-tender and bright green, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain off any accumulated water from the broccoli.
- Immediately toss the hot broccoli with the prepared marinade.
- Serve hot as a vegetable side or chill and serve as a marinated salad. It will last several days in the refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating minced garlic or ginger into the marinade. If you don't have sesame oil, you can substitute with vegetable oil, though it will alter the taste slightly. To maintain the vibrant green color of the broccoli, ensure not to overcook it; it should be crisp-tender. Serve with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This Chinese broccoli dish pairs beautifully with Sweet And Sour Tofu And Veggies or can be enjoyed alongside grilled meats. It also makes a great addition to a larger spread of Chinese recipes. For a complete meal, serve it over steamed rice or quinoa, which will soak up the delicious marinade.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, lightly steam or microwave the broccoli until heated through, but avoid overcooking to retain its texture. You can also serve it cold as a refreshing salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Broccoli contains roughly 69 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 8g fat.
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 regular broccoli instead of Chinese broccoli?
Yes, you can substitute regular broccoli, though the flavor and texture will differ slightly. Chinese broccoli has a more robust flavor and thicker stems, which add a unique crunch. Adjust steaming time accordingly, as regular broccoli may cook faster.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Make a larger batch and store it in individual portions. It tastes great cold as a salad or can be reheated for a warm side dish, making it a versatile option for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Certainly! This dish can be enhanced by adding protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Simply cook the protein separately and toss it with the broccoli and marinade before serving. This creates a more filling meal while maintaining the fresh flavors.
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).