Pin it Elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet sophisticated side dish. Tender broccoli florets are bathed in a glossy, savory garlic sauce and topped with the unmistakable crunch of crispy bacon. This recipe brings a touch of Asian-inspired fusion to your dinner table, proving that healthy greens can be both flavorful and indulgent with just a few pantry staples.
Pin it The beauty of this dish lies in the balance of the aromatics. By gently sautéing finely chopped garlic until golden, you create a fragrant base that perfectly complements the salty notes of the soy and oyster sauces. It is an easy way to transform a standard head of broccoli into a restaurant-quality side.
Ingredients
- 1 head broccoli, cut into small florets
- 2 strips bacon, cut into small pieces (adjust to taste)
- 4–5 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (or substitute with an additional 1 teaspoon soy sauce if needed)
- 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/3 cup water
- 3 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive oil)
- Pinch of salt (for boiling water)
- Splash of olive oil (for boiling water, optional)
Instructions
- 1. Boil the Broccoli
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and a splash of olive oil. Add broccoli and boil for 3–5 minutes until just tender and bright green. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- 2. Fry the Bacon
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add bacon pieces and cook until crisp and golden brown. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. Discard excess fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons oil in the pan.
- 3. Prepare the Garlic Sauce
- Add chopped garlic to the remaining oil in the pan. Sauté over medium heat until fragrant and golden, but not burnt. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and water until smooth. Pour sauce mixture into the pan and stir continuously for about 10 seconds, until the sauce thickens and turns glossy.
- 4. Combine and Serve
- Add the drained broccoli to the pan and toss to coat evenly in the garlic sauce. Sprinkle crispy bacon over the top and toss briefly to combine. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To achieve the best results, ensure your broccoli is drained very well after boiling; any excess water can dilute the garlic sauce and prevent it from clinging to the florets. When preparing the sauce, keep a close eye on the garlic while sautéing—it should be golden and fragrant, as burnt garlic can introduce a bitter taste to the final dish.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use a vegetarian oyster sauce. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add chili flakes to the sauce mixture before pouring it into the pan. For those who prefer a slightly sweet profile to balance the savory notes, a tiny pinch of sugar can be whisked into the sauce components.
Serviervorschläge
This Broccoli with Garlic Sauce and Crispy Bacon is a versatile side that pairs excellently with steamed jasmine rice or grilled proteins like salmon or chicken breast. Serve it while the bacon is still at its maximum crispiness for the best textural experience.
Pin it Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight vegetable fix or a flavorful addition to an Asian-themed dinner, this broccoli dish delivers on all fronts. Enjoy the perfect marriage of healthy greens and savory toppings in every bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep broccoli crisp yet tender?
Boil the broccoli briefly (3-5 minutes) with a pinch of salt and optional olive oil. Drain well to preserve bright color and avoid sogginess.
- → Can I substitute bacon with a vegetarian option?
Yes, omit bacon and use vegetarian oyster sauce to maintain rich umami flavors without meat.
- → What thickener is best for the garlic sauce?
Cornstarch works well to create a glossy, smooth sauce that clings nicely to the broccoli.
- → How to prevent garlic from burning during cooking?
Sauté garlic over medium heat until fragrant and golden, stirring constantly to avoid bitterness.
- → Can I add a spicy element to this dish?
Yes, adding chili flakes to the sauce will introduce a gentle heat balancing the savory flavors.