Broccoli Oriental
Broccoli Oriental Recipe - Vegetarian Food from China
Introduction
Broccoli Oriental is a delicious and healthy dish that combines the flavors of broccoli, carrots, onions, and water chestnuts with a touch of soy sauce. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick and nutritious meal.
History
Broccoli Oriental is a popular dish that originated in Asian cuisine. It is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy the health benefits of broccoli and other vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch of trimmed broccoli
- 4 carrots, cut into strips
- 2 onions, slivered
- 1 cup of canned sliced water chestnuts
- 2 tsp of soy sauce
How to prepare
- In a pan, sauté the onions. Then, add the remaining ingredients. Cover the pan and cook for 10-15 minutes, adding more water if necessary.
Variations
- Add some sliced mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Use different vegetables, such as bell peppers or snap peas, for variety.
- Add some cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to trim the broccoli and cut the carrots into strips for even cooking.
- Sautéing the onions before adding the other ingredients helps to enhance their flavor.
- Covering the pan while cooking helps to steam the vegetables and retain their nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Broccoli Oriental as a side dish with grilled chicken or tofu for a complete meal. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch or dinner option.
Cooking Techniques
Sautéing the onions before adding the other ingredients helps to develop their flavor. Covering the pan while cooking helps to steam the vegetables and retain their nutrients.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have water chestnuts, you can use sliced bamboo shoots or baby corn as a substitute. You can also use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This dish is best served fresh, so it's not recommended to make it too far in advance.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Broccoli Oriental in a colorful bowl or plate for an eye-catching presentation. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for added flavor and texture.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Broccoli Oriental with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a side of stir-fried tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Broccoli Oriental contains approximately 150 calories, making it a light and nutritious meal option.
Carbohydrates
Broccoli Oriental is a low-carb dish, with only a small amount of carbohydrates coming from the vegetables and soy sauce.
Fats
This dish is low in fat, making it a healthy option for those looking to reduce their fat intake.
Proteins
Broccoli Oriental is a good source of protein, thanks to the water chestnuts and soy sauce.
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the broccoli and carrots, and potassium from the water chestnuts.
Alergens
This recipe contains soy sauce, which may contain gluten. Those with gluten allergies should use a gluten-free soy sauce.
Summary
Broccoli Oriental is a healthy and nutritious dish that is low in carbs and fats, but high in protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Summary
Broccoli Oriental is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for a quick and healthy meal. With its combination of vegetables, soy sauce, and water chestnuts, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a rainy afternoon and I was flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my mother. As I turned the yellowed pages, a colorful photograph caught my eye. It was a dish called Broccoli Oriental, a vibrant mix of broccoli florets, red bell peppers, and crunchy cashews, all tossed in a tangy soy-ginger sauce.
I had never seen anything quite like it before. The combination of flavors and textures seemed so exotic and intriguing. I decided then and there that I had to learn how to make it.
I set out on a quest to master this recipe, determined to recreate the flavors that had captivated me. I sought out the freshest broccoli, the plumpest cashews, and the most aromatic ginger I could find. I carefully followed the instructions, chopping and sautéing with precision.
As the dish came together, the kitchen filled with the savory scent of garlic and ginger. The colors of the vegetables popped against the dark sauce, creating a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.
When I finally took my first bite, I was transported to a faraway land. The flavors were bold and complex, with just the right balance of sweet, salty, and spicy. The crunch of the cashews added a satisfying contrast to the tender broccoli, while the red peppers added a burst of freshness.
I was thrilled with my success and couldn't wait to share this new recipe with my family and friends. They were equally enchanted by the dish, marveling at its exotic flavors and asking for the recipe. I happily obliged, eager to pass on the magic of Broccoli Oriental to others.
Over the years, I continued to make this dish, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my tastes. I added a dash of sesame oil for depth of flavor, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, and a splash of rice vinegar for brightness. Each iteration was a delicious experiment, revealing new nuances and depths to the dish.
I also learned more about the origins of the recipe. It was said to have been created by a Chinese chef who had immigrated to America in the early 20th century. He combined traditional Chinese flavors with local ingredients to create a dish that was both familiar and unique.
I loved the story behind the recipe, as it added another layer of meaning to an already special dish. It was a reminder of the power of food to bridge cultures and bring people together.
As the years passed, Broccoli Oriental became a staple in my culinary repertoire. It was a dish I made for special occasions and everyday meals alike, always bringing a smile to the faces of those who enjoyed it.
And so, the recipe for Broccoli Oriental became not just a dish, but a part of my family's story. It was a connection to the past, a celebration of the present, and a promise of delicious meals to come. And for that, I will always be grateful to the cookbook that first introduced me to this magical recipe.
Categories
| Broccoli Recipes | Broccoli Soup Recipes | Chinese Recipes | Jewish Vegetarian |