Elevate your weeknight dinners with this quick and flavorful Sautéed Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan) recipe! Tender-crisp Chinese broccoli is stir-fried with fragrant garlic and coated in a savory sauce made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a hint of sesame oil, creating a dish that’s both simple and irresistibly delicious. The stems and leafy greens are cooked separately to ensure perfect texture, and a quick steaming step locks in vibrant color and tenderness. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect as a healthy side or served over steamed rice for a satisfying vegetarian-friendly meal. Packed with nutrients and bold umami flavors, this easy Chinese broccoli stir-fry is a must-have addition to your recipe rotation!
Wash the Chinese broccoli thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt. Trim the ends of the stems and cut them into 2-inch pieces. Separate the thicker stems from the leafy parts as they require different cooking times.
Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Set aside.
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the pan.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir-fry for 30 seconds until aromatic but not browned.
Toss in the Chinese broccoli stems first and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Stir-fry for about 2–3 minutes until the stems begin to soften.
Add the leafy parts of the Chinese broccoli and stir-fry for another 2 minutes, mixing well with the stems.
Pour the water into the skillet and cover with a lid. Allow the broccoli to steam for 2–3 minutes until tender but still vibrant green.
Remove the lid and pour the prepared sauce over the broccoli. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly. Cook for another minute until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the broccoli.
Transfer the sautéed Chinese broccoli to a serving platter and enjoy immediately as a side dish or over steamed rice.
Calories |
503 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 41.3 g | 53% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.8 g | 29% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 22.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2883 mg | 125% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 26.6 g | 10% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.6 g | 38% | |
| Total Sugars | 6.5 g | ||
| Protein | 12.9 g | 26% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 275 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 4.2 mg | 23% | |
| Potassium | 1320 mg | 28% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.