Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or any cooking oil of your choice
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- 1/2 carrot, julienned (optional)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh coriander leaves or spring onions for garnish
Preparation
Wash and cut the broccoli into small florets.
Slice the onion, bell pepper, and julienne the carrot (if using).
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and drop in the broccoli florets.
Let them cook for about 2 minutes, just until they turn bright green and slightly tender.
Immediately drain the broccoli and transfer it into a bowl of ice water to stop further cooking. Drain again and set aside. (This step helps maintain the vibrant green color and crunch.)
Heat a wok or large frying pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat up.
Add the sliced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the bell pepper and carrot (if using), and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
Add the blanched broccoli florets to the pan and stir well.
Pour in the soy sauce and lemon juice. Toss everything together to ensure the broccoli and other vegetables are well-coated with the sauce.
Sprinkle red chili flakes (if using), black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir-fry everything for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the broccoli to absorb the flavors.
Once the broccoli is cooked to your desired level of tenderness (it should still have a slight crunch), turn off the heat.
Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh coriander leaves or spring onions for an added crunch and flavor.
Serve your Broccoli Stir Fry hot as a side dish with rice, noodles, or even as a standalone snack.
Servings: Serves 2
Notes
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or baby corn to customize the stir-fry.
- Adjust the chili flakes based on your spice preference or omit them entirely for a milder dish.