Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your home cooking to restaurant-worthy levels! Gai lan, also known as Chinese broccoli, is the hidden gem of Asian vegetables that promises a perfect balance of crisp texture and robust flavor. This quick and easy stir-fry recipe will not only impress your family and friends but also introduce you to a nutritious and delicious side dish that takes just 20 minutes to prepare.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb gai lan (Chinese broccoli)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Wash the gai lan thoroughly under cold running water, removing any dirt or debris. Trim off the tough bottom ends of the stems, cutting them at an angle to create a more tender cut.
- Cut the gai lan into approximately 2-3 inch long pieces, separating the leafy green parts from the thicker stems to ensure even cooking.
- Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves, preparing them for quick infusion of flavor during the stir-frying process.
- Heat a large wok or wide skillet over high heat. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan evenly.
- When the oil is hot and shimmering, add the minced garlic. Quickly stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the thicker stem pieces first, stir-frying for about 1-2 minutes to begin softening them.
- Add the leafy green parts of the gai lan, continuing to stir-fry rapidly over high heat to maintain their vibrant green color and crisp texture.
- Drizzle the oyster sauce over the vegetables, tossing quickly to ensure even coating and flavor distribution.
- Season with a pinch of salt to taste, continuing to stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until the gai lan is tender-crisp but still bright green.
- Remove from heat and finish by drizzling sesame oil over the top, giving a final gentle toss to incorporate the nutty flavor.
- Transfer immediately to a serving plate, ensuring the gai lan remains hot and retains its vibrant appearance and crisp texture.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Gai Lan: Look for bright green leaves with firm stems and no yellowing or wilting.
- Prep is Key: Cut stems at an angle to ensure even cooking and create a more tender bite.
- High Heat is Essential: Use a wok or large skillet and cook on high heat to maintain the vegetable's crisp texture and vibrant color.
- Timing Matters: Add stem pieces first, then leafy greens to ensure uniform cooking.
- Don't Overcook: Aim for tender-crisp texture - the gai lan should remain bright green and have a slight crunch.
- Flavor Boosters: The combination of oyster sauce and sesame oil adds depth and authenticity to the dish.
- Serve Immediately: Stir-fried gai lan is best enjoyed hot, straight from the wok to preserve its texture and temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
