Save Experience the perfect crunch of tender broccoli florets paired with the deep savory notes of a classic garlic sauce, all elevated by the salty pop of golden-brown bacon. This Asian-fusion side dish is a quick way to turn simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality accompaniment that fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle.
Pin it This dish takes inspiration from traditional Chinese stir-fries, where aromatics like garlic are used to brighten up green vegetables. By adding a touch of crispy bacon, we create a smoky depth that bridges Asian flavors with comforting Western elements, resulting in a side dish that is both familiar and exciting.
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 ensure the best texture, make sure the broccoli is drained very well before adding it to the sauce; excess water can dilute the garlic flavor. When sautéing the garlic, watch it closely—you want it golden and fragrant, as burnt garlic can become bitter and ruin the sauce's balance.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use a vegetarian oyster sauce. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of chili flakes to the garlic sauce. For those who like a slightly sweeter profile, a tiny pinch of sugar can be added to the sauce mixture to balance the salty soy sauce.
Serviervorschläge
This Broccoli with Garlic Sauce and Crispy Bacon pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or as a side to grilled chicken or pan-seared tofu. For a more decadent flavor, you can substitute the bacon with smoky prosciutto, though this will increase the overall cost of the dish.
Pin it With only 310 calories per serving and a total preparation time of just 20 minutes, this recipe is a versatile addition to any meal rotation. Whether you're cooking for a quick weekday dinner or looking for a healthy side, this savory broccoli dish delivers bold flavors with every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent the broccoli from getting soggy?
Boil the broccoli just until tender and bright green, about 3-5 minutes, then drain thoroughly to avoid excess water diluting the sauce.
- → Can I omit the bacon for a vegetarian option?
Yes, simply leave out the bacon and use a vegetarian oyster sauce or extra soy sauce to maintain umami flavors.
- → What is the purpose of cornstarch in the sauce?
Cornstarch thickens the garlic sauce, giving it a glossy finish and helping it coat the broccoli evenly.
- → Can I add spice to this dish?
Yes, adding chili flakes to the sauce introduces a subtle heat that complements the garlic and bacon perfectly.
- → How should I adjust soy sauce when using extra bacon?
Reduce soy sauce slightly to prevent the dish from becoming too salty, as bacon releases some saltiness during cooking.