Are you looking for new ways to prepare Chinese broccoli, also known as gai lan? This nutritious vegetable is a staple in many Asian cuisines and can be cooked in a variety of delicious ways. In this article, we will explore 18 flavorful Chinese broccoli recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic stir-fries to more innovative dishes, these recipes showcase the versatility of Chinese broccoli and its ability to pair well with a range of ingredients.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these simple yet flavorful recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. So let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of Chinese broccoli cooking!
Garlic Stir-Fried Chinese Broccoli
This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to prepare Chinese broccoli, also known as gai lan or pak choy. The garlic and soy sauce add depth of flavor without overpowering the delicate taste of the broccoli.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Chinese broccoli (gai lan), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the broccoli and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until it starts to soften.
4. Add soy sauce and salt to taste; stir-fry for another minute.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Chinese Broccoli with Oyster Sauce
Elevate your vegetable game with this classic Chinese recipe that combines the subtle sweetness of broccoli with the savory umami flavor of oyster sauce. This simple and quick dish is a staple in many Chinese households.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Chinese broccoli (gai lan), cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the broccoli and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until it starts to soften.
4. Pour in the oyster sauce and season with salt to taste.
5. Stir-fry for an additional minute, or until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Steamed Chinese Broccoli with Ginger
This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness of broccoli and pairs it with the warm, spicy flavor of ginger for a healthy and delicious side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of Chinese broccoli (gai lan), washed and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 inches of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 2 tablespoons of water
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a steamer basket with the broccoli pieces.
2. Place the sliced ginger in the center of the basket, allowing it to steam alongside the broccoli.
3. Steam the mixture over boiling water for 4-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Chinese Broccoli and Beef Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of Cantonese cuisine, combining tender beef with crisp broccoli and savory soy sauce. In just 15 minutes, you can have a flavorful and nutritious meal ready to go!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the beef into thin strips and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
3. Add the beef and cook for 2-3 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
4. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
5. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and broccoli to the wok.
6. Stir-fry the broccoli for 2-3 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
7. Return the beef to the wok and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
8. Cook for an additional minute, until the flavors have combined.
9. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spicy Szechuan Chinese Broccoli
Experience the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this spicy broccoli recipe, perfect for a quick and delicious side dish or vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch broccoli, cut into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add garlic, onion, Szechuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add broccoli and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and rice vinegar.
5. Pour the sauce over the broccoli and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until broccoli is tender-crisp.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Broccoli in Garlic Black Bean Sauce
This flavorful and nutritious dish combines tender broccoli florets with a rich and savory garlic black bean sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of broccoli, trimmed into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and vegetable oil.
3. In a wok or large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the black beans to the wok and stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Add the cooked broccoli to the wok, pouring the soy sauce mixture over the top. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Broccoli with Mushrooms and Tofu
This classic Chinese dish combines the nutty flavor of broccoli, earthy taste of mushrooms, and tender texture of tofu, all wrapped up in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Chinese broccoli (gai lan), cleaned and separated into florets
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add tofu and cook for an additional minute, until lightly browned.
4. Add broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until broccoli is tender-crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Broccoli and Shrimp Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines succulent shrimp, crisp broccoli, and savory soy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the broccoli and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan. Stir-fry for 30 seconds to combine.
5. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir-fry everything together for another minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions (if using).
8. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Broccoli with Cashew Nuts
A classic Chinese dish that combines the crunch of broccoli with the creamy richness of cashews. This easy-to-make recipe is a great side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Chinese broccoli (gai lan), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup cashew nuts, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the broccoli and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender-crisp.
4. Add the cashew nuts, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for another minute to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Broccoli and Chicken in Oyster Sauce
This classic Chinese dish is a flavorful and nutritious combination of chicken, broccoli, and oyster sauce. In just a few minutes, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic, broccoli, and oyster sauce to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and stir in soy sauce and sesame oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Broccoli with Sesame Oil and Soy Sauce
A classic Chinese side dish that combines the nutty flavor of sesame oil with the savory taste of soy sauce, all wrapped up in a quick and easy stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Chinese broccoli (gai lan), cleaned and cut into florets
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the Chinese broccoli and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the stems are tender but still crisp.
4. Season with soy sauce to taste, then sprinkle with salt.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chinese Broccoli and Pork Belly Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese stir-fry is a harmonious blend of tender pork belly, crunchy broccoli, and savory soy sauce. A quick and easy meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork belly strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the wok and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the broccoli and garlic; stir-fry until the broccoli is tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Return the cooked pork belly to the wok and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Broccoli with Fermented Tofu Sauce
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of fermented tofu with the crunchy texture of blanched broccoli, creating a delicious and nutritious dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of Chinese broccoli (gai lan), cleaned and cut into florets
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of fermented tofu, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the broccoli for 2-3 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
2. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add the fermented tofu and stir-fry for another minute, breaking it up with a spatula as needed.
4. Add the blanched broccoli, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes or until the broccoli is coated with the sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Broccoli and Scallops in Garlic Sauce
This classic Chinese-inspired dish combines the sweetness of scallops with the nutty flavor of broccoli, all wrapped up in a savory garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Chinese broccoli (gai lan), cleaned and cut into florets
– 12 large scallops
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the broccoli and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the scallops and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until they turn opaque and firm to the touch.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and ginger. Pour the sauce over the broccoli and scallops.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Broccoli with Chili and Garlic
This simple yet flavorful recipe adds a kick to the classic Chinese broccoli dish. With just a few ingredients, you can create a mouth-numbingly spicy and savory side that pairs perfectly with your favorite stir-fries.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of Chinese broccoli (gai lan), cleaned and chopped into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-2 dried red chilies, crushed or 1-2 teaspoons of chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and crushed chilies (or chili flakes) and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Season with salt and white pepper (if using).
5. Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Chinese Broccoli and Egg Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of many Chinese households, and for good reason – it’s quick, easy, and packed with nutrients. This recipe serves 2-3 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch broccoli (about 4 cups florets)
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and stir-fry until fragrant (30 seconds).
4. Add broccoli and cook until tender but still crisp (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Pour in whisked eggs and scramble until cooked through (1-2 minutes).
6. Stir in soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chinese Broccoli with Hoisin Glaze
This classic Chinese side dish is a simple yet flavorful accompaniment to any meal. The sweet and savory hoisin glaze adds a depth of flavor to the tender broccoli florets.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of Chinese broccoli (gai lan), cleaned and cut into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the broccoli and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and sugar.
5. Pour the glaze over the broccoli and stir-fry for an additional minute, until the glaze is caramelized and sticky.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Broccoli and Duck Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese stir-fry that combines the savory flavors of duck with the crunchy sweetness of broccoli, this recipe is a quick and easy dinner solution.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless duck breast, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the duck and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the broccoli and garlic to the pan, cooking for 2-3 minutes, until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the duck to the pan, and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook for an additional minute, until the flavors are well combined.
6. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious simplicity of 18 flavorful Chinese broccoli recipes. From classic stir-fries to innovative sauces, these easy-to-make dishes showcase the versatility of this popular Asian green. Try garlic stir-fried Chinese broccoli for a savory start or add some spice with Szechuan-style heat. Whether you’re looking for meat-based options like beef and shrimp or vegetarian choices like mushrooms and tofu, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouthwatering recipes. Get cooking and elevate your taste buds with these delectable Chinese broccoli dishes!
