Simple Broccoli dish

Simple Broccoli Dish Recipe | Vegetarian Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

This simple broccoli dish is a quick and easy way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. The combination of fresh broccoli, water chestnuts, ginger, and soy sauce creates a flavorful and satisfying side dish that pairs well with any main course.

History

Broccoli has been enjoyed for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient Rome. This recipe takes a modern twist on this classic vegetable, incorporating Asian-inspired flavors for a unique and delicious dish.

Ingredients

750 g fresh broccoli
0.5 cup canned sliced water chestnuts
3 tbsp oil
1 cm ginger
0.33 tsp grated fresh lemon rind
1 tsp soy sauce
1 tbsp dry sherry (optional)
0.5 cup water
1 vegetarian stock

How to prepare

1. Cut the broccoli into small florets.
2. In a frying pan, combine oil, water chestnuts, peeled and grated ginger, and lemon rind. Simmer until the ginger is sizzling.
3. Add the broccoli and gently toss in the hot oil for 1 minute.
4. Stir in soy sauce, sherry, water, and vegetarian stock.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer covered for about 5 minutes or until the broccoli is just cooked (still slightly crisp).
6. Remove the vegetables from the pan and transfer them onto a serving plate.
7. Increase the heat and boil the remaining liquid in the pan until it is reduced by half. Spoon the reduced liquid over the broccoli.

Variations

Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Top with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for added crunch.
Drizzle with a spicy chili sauce or hoisin sauce for a different twist on the flavors.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure not to overcook the broccoli, as it should still be slightly crisp for the best texture.

- Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite vegetables or protein sources for added variety.

- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences, adding more soy sauce or ginger as desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this broccoli dish alongside grilled chicken or tofu for a complete and balanced meal. It also pairs well with steamed rice or quinoa for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying the broccoli ensures that it cooks quickly while retaining its vibrant color and crisp texture.

- Simmering the vegetables in a flavorful broth helps to infuse them with delicious flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh garlic instead of ginger for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute vegetable broth for the vegetarian stock for a richer taste.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the broccoli and water chestnut mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color. - Serve the broccoli in individual bowls for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this broccoli dish with a light and refreshing white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

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

- 180 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 14g

- Dietary Fiber: 5g

- Sugars: 3g

Fats

- Total Fat: 10g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 5g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 135% DV

- Vitamin A: 20% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

- Calcium: 6% DV

Alergens

Contains soy

Summary

This broccoli dish is a nutritious and delicious side that is low in calories and high in essential vitamins and minerals. It is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

Summary

This simple broccoli dish is a flavorful and nutritious side that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant colors and delicious flavors, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for a simple broccoli dish. It was a warm summer day, and I had decided to visit my friend Martha, who lived just a few streets away from me. Martha was known in our neighborhood for her amazing cooking skills, and I always looked forward to trying out new recipes whenever I visited her.

As soon as I entered Martha's house, I was greeted by the delicious aroma of garlic and butter wafting from her kitchen. I knew that something fantastic was cooking, and I couldn't wait to find out what it was. Martha welcomed me with a warm hug and a smile, and then she led me to the kitchen where she was busy preparing our lunch.

"So, what's on the menu today, Martha?" I asked eagerly, trying to catch a glimpse of what she was cooking.

Martha chuckled and replied, "Oh, just a simple broccoli dish that I learned from my grandmother. It's nothing fancy, but it's always a hit with everyone who tries it."

I watched as Martha chopped up the fresh broccoli and tossed it into a hot skillet with some olive oil. The sizzle of the vegetables hitting the pan filled the room, and my mouth watered in anticipation. Martha added some minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the broccoli, and then she let it cook for a few minutes until it was tender and slightly charred.

As Martha plated the broccoli dish and handed me a fork to try it, I could hardly contain my excitement. The first bite was heavenly - the broccoli was perfectly cooked, with just the right amount of seasoning to bring out its natural flavors. I couldn't believe that such a simple dish could taste so delicious.

I savored every bite of the broccoli dish, and by the time I was finished, I was already asking Martha for the recipe. She laughed and told me that it was a family secret, passed down from generation to generation. But she promised to teach me how to make it the next time I came over.

True to her word, Martha showed me how to make the simple broccoli dish on my next visit. She walked me through each step, from the chopping of the broccoli to the seasoning and cooking process. I took notes and asked questions, determined to master the recipe so that I could make it for my own family.

Over the years, I have made the simple broccoli dish countless times, each time with a sense of pride and nostalgia. I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different seasonings and cooking methods to make it my own. But no matter how I make it, the dish always reminds me of that warm summer day when I discovered its deliciousness at Martha's kitchen.

Now, whenever I make the simple broccoli dish for my family or friends, I can't help but think of Martha and her grandmother. I feel grateful for the opportunity to learn such a wonderful recipe and to pass it down to future generations. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others and create lasting memories, and this simple broccoli dish is a perfect example of that.

As I sit down to enjoy a plate of the tender, flavorful broccoli, I can't help but smile and feel grateful for the culinary journey that led me to this recipe. It may be just a simple dish, but to me, it represents a lifetime of learning, sharing, and love. And for that, I am truly thankful.