Szechuan Peppercorn Broccoli

Szechuan Peppercorn Broccoli is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that combines the unique numbing spice of Szechuan peppercorns with the crispness of fresh broccoli. This dairy-free dish is quick to prepare and adds a delightful zing to any meal.

Szechuan Peppercorn Broccoli
15 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Chinese
90 kcal

Ingredients

  • Broccoli - 300 grams
  • Szechuan peppercorns - 1 teaspoon
  • Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
  • Ginger - 1 teaspoon, grated
  • Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
  • Sesame oil - 1 tablespoon
  • Red chili flakes - 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
  • Vegetable oil - 1 tablespoon
  • Salt - to taste
  • Green onions - 2, chopped (for garnish)

Steps

  1. Begin by washing the broccoli and cutting it into bite-sized florets.
  2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for 2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
  3. Drain the broccoli and immediately transfer it to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain again and set aside.
  4. In a small pan, dry toast the Szechuan peppercorns over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and crush them lightly using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.
  5. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
  6. Add the blanched broccoli to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Sprinkle the crushed Szechuan peppercorns and red chili flakes over the broccoli, then add the soy sauce and sesame oil. Toss everything well to combine and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  8. Taste and adjust salt if necessary. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 90
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Carbs: 12 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
  • Total Fat: 6 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Water: 0.2 L

Health Benefits

  • Rich in vitamins C and K, promoting immune health and bone strength.
  • Contains Szechuan peppercorns, which may help improve digestion and provide anti-inflammatory effects.

Tags

ChineseDairy-FreeSide Dish