What is Chinese Broccoli?
Chinese broccoli, also known as Chinese kale or Chinese flowering cabbage, is a green leafy vegetable that is popular in Asian cuisines. Its scientific name is Brassica oleracea Alboglabra. Some key things to know about Chinese broccoli:
-
It has long, thick green stalks with dark green leaves. Small yellow flowers sometimes develop at the ends of the stalks.
-
Chinese broccoli has a mild flavor that is slightly bitter and peppery. The texture is crunchy yet tender.
-
Nutritionally, it is high in vitamins K, A and C. It also contains plenty of calcium, fiber and antioxidants.
-
Chinese broccoli is available year-round but is best in cooler months from fall to spring. Look for bunches with firm, brightly colored stalks and leaves.
-
This vegetable can be eaten raw or cooked. It is commonly stir-fried or added to soups and stews towards the end of cooking.
Simple Stir Fry with Oyster Sauce
One of the most popular ways to prepare Chinese broccoli is to lightly stir fry it with oyster sauce. This brings out the vegetable’s flavor while keeping it crisp-tender. Here is a simple recipe:
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Chinese broccoli
– 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and white pepper to taste
Cut the Chinese broccoli stalks into 1-inch pieces. Cut larger leaves in half lengthwise. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or skillet over high heat. Add the broccoli and stir fry for 2-3 minutes until almost tender. Push to one side of the wok. Add the oyster sauce and sesame oil to the other side and let the sauce cook for 30 seconds. Toss everything together until well coated. Remove from heat and season with salt and white pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Stir Fry with Garlic
Another classic preparation is to stir fry Chinese broccoli with garlic. The garlic adds delightful flavor while retaining the vegetable’s excellent nutrients. Here is a simple recipe:
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Chinese broccoli
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
– 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Wash the broccoli well and cut as described above. Heat the oil in a wok over high heat. Add the garlic and ginger and cook briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the broccoli and stir fry for 2-3 minutes until almost tender. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot.
Tips for Best Results
-
Use a high heat level when stir frying Chinese broccoli to ensure it does not overcook and become mushy. Work in batches if needed.
-
For crisp-tender broccoli, do not overcrowd the wok. Give each piece room so it makes contact with the hot surface.
-
Add the sauce or seasonings towards the end of cooking so the broccoli does not become soggy.
-
Chinese broccoli is highly nutritious. Drizzle any extra sauce over steamed rice to enjoy all the nutrients.
-
Leftover stir fried broccoli makes a tasty filling for an omelet or fried rice the next day. Nothing goes to waste!
Conclusion
I hope these two simple recipes have provided ideas for how to easily prepare and enjoy Chinese broccoli at home. Its unique flavor and texture, along with excellent nutritional profile, make it a worthwhile addition to any diet. With just a few common ingredients, mouthwatering stir fries can be on the table in minutes. Please let me know if you have any other questions!
