Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan)
Chinese Broccoli in Brown Sauce with Chilies and Garlic is a savory and spicy dish that perfectly balances bold flavors and fresh, crisp textures. This classic Chinese recipe features tender Chinese broccoli (Gai Lan) tossed in a rich brown sauce infused with garlic and chilies, creating an irresistible side dish or main course. Simple yet packed with flavor, this dish will elevate your meal with its delightful blend of tastes and aromas.
Table of Contents
- About Chinese Broccoli
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- What Is In Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan) Recipe?
- Key Ingredients
- How To Make This Recipe
- Have It Your Way!
- Nutritional Facts
- Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan) Recipe
About Chinese Broccoli
Chinese broccoli, also known as gai lan, is a staple in Chinese cuisine, particularly in Cantonese dishes. It is known for its slightly bitter taste and robust texture, making it ideal for stir-fries and braised dishes.
In Chinese culture, leafy greens like gai lan are often served during family meals and festive occasions, symbolizing prosperity and longevity. The use of garlic and chilies in the sauce adds depth and a hint of heat, reflecting the bold flavors typical of Chinese cooking.
Brown sauce is a versatile element in Chinese cuisine, made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other seasonings. It complements the natural bitterness of Chinese broccoli, creating a harmonious and flavorful dish that has been enjoyed for generations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: The combination of savory brown sauce, spicy chilies, and aromatic garlic creates a rich and flavorful experience.
- Healthy: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, Chinese broccoli is a nutritious addition to any meal.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Serve as a side dish or a main course over steamed rice or noodles.
- Diet-Friendly: Naturally vegan and gluten-free, suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
What Is In Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan) Recipe?
This dish features a medley of fresh and flavorful ingredients:
- Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan): The main vegetable, offering a slightly bitter taste and tender-crisp texture.
- Garlic: Adds aromatic and savory notes.
- Chilies: Provide a spicy kick.
- Soy Sauce: Forms the base of the brown sauce, adding umami flavor.
- Vegan Oyster Sauce: Enhances the sauce with a rich, savory taste.
- Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce.
- Vegetable Oil: For stir-frying.
- Water or Vegetable Broth: Helps create the sauce base.
Key Ingredients
- Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan): Fresh and tender, this leafy green is the star of the dish.
- Garlic: Infuses the dish with a pungent, aromatic flavor.
- Chilies: Add heat and depth.
- Soy Sauce: Provides savory umami flavor.
- Vegan Oyster Sauce: Adds richness to the brown sauce.
- Cornstarch: Ensures a smooth and thick sauce.
- Vegetable Oil: For stir-frying the ingredients.
How To Make This Recipe
- In a small pan with heat OFF, add water and corn starch. Stir to create a slurry.
- Turn on the heat to lowest possible, and stir so the slurry thickens.
- Add Garlic, Bird Eye chilies, brown sugar, and vegan oyster sauce along with a little more water to adjust consistency of the sauce. Set Aside to cool.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil, and add a little cooking oil.
- Add Chinese Broccoli to the water, and cook for 60 seconds.
- Remove the cooked Chinese broccoli, and chop them in half, and transfer to serving plate.
- Pour the sauce over the broccoli.
- Serve and Enjoy 🙂
Have It Your Way!
- Adjust Spice Level: Add more or fewer chilies to control the heat.
- Add Protein: Include tofu or tempeh for added protein.
- Use Different Greens: Substitute Chinese broccoli with bok choy or kale for variety.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all sauces used are certified gluten-free.
- Add Mushrooms: Enhance the dish with shiitake or button mushrooms for an extra umami kick.
Nutritional Facts
- Low in Calories: A healthy, low-calorie dish.
- High in Fiber: Rich in dietary fiber for digestive health.
- Packed with Vitamins: Full of vitamins A, C, and K.
- Antioxidants: Provides antioxidants that support cellular health.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Crispy Air Fried Orange Tofu
- Vegan Mapo Tofu
- Gochujang Tofu
- Black Pepper Tofu
- Thai Basil Braised Tofu
- Spicy Chilli Garlic Tofu
Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan) Recipe
Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan)
Ingredients
- 1 Bunch Chinese Broccoli
- 1 Tsp Cooking
- ¼ Cup water
- 1 Tbsp. Corn Starch
- 4 Garlic cloves sliced
- 1 Birds eye or Thai chili finely chopped
- 1 Tbsp. Brown Sugar
- 2 Tbsp. Vegan Oyster Sauce
Instructions
- In a small pan with heat OFF, add water and corn starch. Stir to create a slurry.
- Turn on the heat to lowest possible, and stir so the slurry thickens.
- Add Garlic, Bird Eye chilies, brown sugar, and vegan oyster sauce along with a little more water to adjust consistency of the sauce. Set Aside to cool.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil, and add a little cooking oil.
- Add Chinese Broccoli to the water, and cook for 60 seconds.
- Remove the cooked Chinese broccoli, and chop them in half, and transfer to serving plate.
- Pour the sauce over the broccoli.
- Serve and Enjoy 🙂
Notes
- Blanching: Blanch the Chinese broccoli briefly to retain its bright color and tender-crisp texture.
- Sauce Consistency: Adjust the amount of cornstarch for your preferred sauce thickness, or adjust water.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Video
Nutrition
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What a healthy and delicious looking dish!
It really is 🙂
Broccoli in a sweet Sauce is my favorite side dish. This looks easy to make.
It is very easy to make and Gai Lan is our favorite side dish.