This quick garlic broccoli stir fry is a colorful and tasty dish! With crunchy broccoli and hearty chickpeas, it’s packed with flavor and health benefits.
I love making this when I need dinner in a hurry! Just toss everything in a pan, and it’s ready to eat in no time. Plus, the garlic makes the kitchen smell amazing! 🥦✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are the star here! You can also use other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for variety. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli works well too!
Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas make it fast and easy. You can substitute with any canned beans like black beans or kidney beans, or use cooked lentils for a change.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds amazing flavor. In a hurry? Garlic powder (1/4 tsp) can be used, but fresh really shines in stir-fries.
Soy Sauce: Tamari is a great gluten-free option. If you need low sodium, look for low-sodium soy sauce. Coconut aminos is another tasty alternative.
Vegetable Oil: I recommend using oils with high smoke points for stir frying, like canola or grapeseed oil. Olive oil works, but it can burn at high heat.
How Can I Ensure My Broccoli Stays Crisp?
The key to keeping broccoli tender yet crisp is to stir fry it right. Here’s how:
- Start with a hot skillet. This helps the broccoli cook quickly while maintaining its texture.
- Don’t overcook it! Aim for 3-4 minutes until it’s bright green and slightly tender but still has a crunch.
- Covering the skillet briefly helps steam the broccoli without making it mushy. Just be ready to remove the lid!
- Finish off by cooking uncovered to evaporate excess liquid and concentrate the flavors.
With these tips, your stir fry will be a hit every time! Enjoy your meal!
Quick Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for stir frying)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Cooked white or brown rice, for serving
- Chopped chives or green onions, for garnish
Time Estimate:
This delicious dish can be prepared in about 10 minutes! You’ll spend 5 minutes chopping and gathering your ingredients, and another 5 minutes cooking. A quick and satisfying meal for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s nice and hot for a great stir fry!
2. Sauté Garlic:
Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them) to the skillet. Stir quickly for about 30 seconds until you smell the yummy garlic aroma—be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Broccoli:
Next, toss in the broccoli florets and stir fry for about 2 minutes. You want them to start turning bright green and getting tender.
4. Add the Chickpeas:
Now, add the rinsed chickpeas to the skillet. Keep stir frying for another 2 minutes until everything is heated through.
5. Mix in the Sauces:
Pour in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), sesame oil, and water or vegetable broth. Stir everything together so the chickpeas and broccoli are evenly coated.
6. Cover to Steam:
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes. This helps the broccoli soften while keeping it crisp!
7. Thicken the Sauce:
After that, remove the lid and cook for another 1-2 minutes until most of the liquid evaporates and the sauce thickens a bit.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the stir fry hot over cooked rice, and don’t forget to garnish with sesame seeds and chopped chives or green onions for that extra touch!
Enjoy your quick and healthy garlic broccoli stir fry with chickpeas! It’s a delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli?
You can use either! Fresh broccoli delivers the best crunch and flavor, but if you’re short on time, frozen broccoli is also a convenient option. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, consider adding more red pepper flakes or even diced fresh chilies when sautéing the garlic. You can also drizzle some sriracha or chili oil over the dish before serving for an extra kick!
Is There a Vegan Alternative for Hoisin Sauce?
Yes! Most store-bought hoisin sauces are vegan, but always check the label to be sure. Alternatively, you can make a simple homemade version using peanut butter, soy sauce, and a bit of sugar.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. Enjoy it as a quick lunch or dinner the next day!
