Introduction
Chinese broccoli, known as Gai Lan, is a nutritious and delicious leafy green vegetable that is often enjoyed in Asian cuisine. Paired with a rich oyster sauce, this dish is simple yet vibrant, making it an excellent side that complements a variety of main courses. In this recipe, we will explore how to prepare steamed Chinese broccoli with a flavorful oyster sauce.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 bunch Chinese broccoli (Gai Lan)
Oyster Sauce:
1 teaspoon corn flour (corn starch)
6 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1/2 teaspoon dark soy sauce
1 tablespoon Chinese cooking wine (substitute with Mirin or Dry Sherry)
1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil (or canola or peanut oil)
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1 clove garlic, finely grated
1 teaspoon ginger, finely grated
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 4 minutes
Total Time: 14 minutes
Yield: Serves 2-3
Instructions
1. Trim the ends off the Chinese broccoli. If any stems are particularly thick, slice them in half lengthwise to ensure even cooking.
2. Steam the Chinese broccoli using your preferred method. For example, place it in a microwave steamer and cook on high for 4 minutes. The stems should be just tender, not overly soft.
3. Once steamed, stack the Chinese broccoli together and cut into 4-inch (10 cm) lengths. Arrange them neatly on a serving plate.
To prepare the Oyster Sauce:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the corn flour and water, stirring until the corn flour dissolves completely.
2. Add the oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine, sesame oil, vegetable oil, sugar, grated garlic, and grated ginger to the saucepan.
3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Allow it to boil for about 30 seconds, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
4. Drizzle the prepared oyster sauce over the steamed Chinese broccoli. Serve immediately while warm.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chinese Broccoli
Trim the ends off the Chinese broccoli. If any stems are particularly thick, slice them in half lengthwise to ensure even cooking.
Steam the Chinese Broccoli
Steam the Chinese broccoli using your preferred method. For example, place it in a microwave steamer and cook on high for 4 minutes. The stems should be just tender, not overly soft.
Cut and Arrange
Once steamed, stack the Chinese broccoli together and cut into 4-inch (10 cm) lengths. Arrange them neatly on a serving plate.
Prepare the Oyster Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine the corn flour and water, stirring until the corn flour dissolves completely.
Combine Ingredients
Add the oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine, sesame oil, vegetable oil, sugar, grated garlic, and grated ginger to the saucepan.
Cook the Sauce
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Allow it to boil for about 30 seconds, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
Serve the Dish
Drizzle the prepared oyster sauce over the steamed Chinese broccoli. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
Cooking Method
Feel free to use other steaming methods such as a traditional steamer or stovetop pot.
Substitutions
If Chinese cooking wine is unavailable, you can substitute it with Mirin or Dry Sherry.
Storage
Leftover Chinese broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
Cook techniques
Trimming Chinese Broccoli
Trim the ends off the Chinese broccoli and slice thick stems in half lengthwise for even cooking.
Steaming
Steam Chinese broccoli until tender but crisp, using methods like a microwave steamer for about 4 minutes.
Cutting
After steaming, stack the Chinese broccoli and cut into 4-inch lengths for a neat presentation.
Preparing Oyster Sauce
Dissolve corn flour in water, then mix in other sauce ingredients before heating to achieve desired thickness.
Drizzling Sauce
Once the oyster sauce is ready, drizzle it evenly over the steamed Chinese broccoli for serving.
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables instead of Chinese broccoli?
Yes, you can substitute other leafy greens or vegetables, but cooking times may vary.
What can I use as a substitute for oyster sauce?
You can use hoisin sauce or mushroom sauce as a vegetarian alternative.
Is it necessary to use dark soy sauce?
While dark soy sauce adds depth of flavor and color, you can use regular soy sauce if unavailable.
Can I prepare the oyster sauce in advance?
The oyster sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
What if I don’t have sesame oil?
You may omit it or use an alternative oil with a nutty flavor if available.
Conclusion
This simple and flavorful dish of Chinese broccoli with oyster sauce showcases the vibrant taste of Gai Lan, enhanced by a savory sauce that balances sweetness and umami. Whether as a side dish or a light main course, it captures the essence of Asian cuisine beautifully. Enjoy it warm for the best flavors and textures.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Stir-fry with Gai Lan
Combine Chinese broccoli with sliced garlic and stir-fry in sesame oil for a quick, aromatic dish.
Gai Lan with Sesame Dressing
Steam the Chinese broccoli and serve with a dressing made of sesame oil, soy sauce, and toasted sesame seeds for a nutty twist.
Gai Lan and Beef Stir-fry
Sauté tender strips of beef with Gai Lan in oyster sauce for a hearty meal that pairs well with rice.
Spicy Gai Lan with Chili Oil
Add a drizzle of chili oil on top of steamed Chinese broccoli for a spicy kick that elevates the dish.
Gai Lan Salad
Serve cooled steamed Gai Lan with a citrus vinaigrette and sliced almonds for a refreshing salad option.
Oyster Sauce Tofu and Gai Lan
Stir-fry firm tofu with Chinese broccoli and garlic in oyster sauce for a delicious vegetarian dish.
