Smashed Sambal Broccoli: Flavorful Vegan Recipe
Smashed Sambal Broccoli is a vibrant and spicy dish that transforms simple broccoli into a culinary delight. By smashing the florets and tossing them in a rich sambal sauce, this recipe combines texture and flavor in every bite. Ideal as a side or a star on your plate, this dish is both quick to prepare and packed with nutrition, making it a fantastic addition to any meal.
Tips and Tricks
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Choose the Right Broccoli: Select fresh, vibrant broccoli with tight florets for the best texture and flavor.
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Blanch for Brightness: Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before smashing. This helps retain its bright green color and makes it more tender.
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Smash with Care: Use a flat object, like a spatula or the bottom of a pan, to gently smash the florets. Aim for a slight crush that opens them up without turning them into mush.
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Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of sambal based on your heat preference. You can start with a small amount and add more gradually.
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Add Flavor Layers: Enhance the dish with garlic or ginger by sautéing them in the pan before adding the sambal. This adds depth to the flavor.
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Toppings for Texture: Consider sprinkling toasted sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, or fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions on top for added crunch and flavor.
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Serve it Warm: This dish is best enjoyed warm. Serve it immediately after cooking to maintain its texture and flavor.
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Meal Prep Friendly: You can prepare the broccoli in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and toss with sambal before serving.
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Pairing Options: This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or as a side for stir-fries. It also complements proteins like tofu or chicken beautifully.
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Experiment with Other Veggies: Try using the same smashing technique with other vegetables like cauliflower or Brussels sprouts for a fun twist.
Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Ingredients
- 4 bunchbroccoli, cut into florets
- 8 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 8 tablespoonsAsian-style chili paste (sambal oelek)
- 12 clove garlic, minced
- 8 teaspoons pure maple syrup
- 4 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 4 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 156
- Fat: 9g
- Carbs: 17g
- Protein: 5g
Directions
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Prepare the Broccoli:
- Wash and cut the broccoli into florets, ensuring they're roughly the same size for even cooking.
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Blanch the Broccoli:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 1-2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
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Smash the Broccoli:
- Place the blanched broccoli on a cutting board or a large plate.
- Use the bottom of a pan or a spatula to gently smash each floret until it's slightly crushed but still holds its shape.
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Prepare the Sambal Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix sambal oelek with a splash of soy sauce, a drizzle of sesame oil, and minced garlic or ginger if desired. Adjust the sambal to taste.
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Sauté the Broccoli:
- In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat.
- Add the smashed broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to get crispy on the edges.
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Add the Sambal Sauce:
- Pour the sambal mixture over the broccoli and toss to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
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Serve:
- Transfer to a serving dish and top with sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, or fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious Smashed Sambal Broccoli!
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