5-Min Broccoli with Garlic Sauce Recipe

Broccoli with Garlic Sauce is one of the quickest and most satisfying Chinese-style vegetable dishes you can make. With just a few ingredients and 5 minutes, you’ll have vibrant green broccoli drenched in sizzling garlic oil and savory soy sauce. The key? Blanching for the perfect texture and pouring smoking-hot oil to unlock bold aromas. It’s healthy, exciting, and unbelievably easy.

Recipe

Serves: 4
Prep and cook time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:
1 large head broccoli
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 large finger hot pepper, minced
2 tablespoons oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce

Instructions

1. Cut the broccoli:

• Use a small knife to separate the florets from the large stalk.
• For larger florets, slice them in half through the stem to ensure even cooking.
• Cut the stalk into small bite-sized pieces.

2. Rinse the broccoli:

• Place the cut broccoli in a bowl of water and rinse thoroughly a few times.

3. Cook the broccoli:

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat.
• Add the broccoli and blanch for about 2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
• Remove and drain well.

4. Arrange the broccoli:

• Place the drained broccoli florets into a bowl, floret side down.
• Once all are arranged, cover the bowl with a plate and carefully flip it upside down onto the plate. Remove the bowl.

5. Create the infused oil:

• Sprinkle the minced garlic and hot pepper evenly over the arranged broccoli.
• Heat the oil in a small pan over high heat until smoking hot.
• Carefully pour the hot oil over the garlic and pepper. You’ll hear a sizzle as the aromatics release their flavor.

6. Serve:

• Drizzle soy sauce over the top and serve immediately.

Tips & notes

• Use fresh garlic: It’s essential for achieving that punchy, aromatic flavor when combined with hot oil.
• Try variations: Add a splash of black vinegar or a pinch of sugar for a flavor twist.
• Hot oil safety: Always pour the oil carefully from a low height to avoid splatter when it hits the garlic and pepper.