Name: Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon cooking oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 5 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced; 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional); 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional); Black pepper and sea salt, to taste; Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional); 1 medium head of broccoli, cut into small florets; 1/3 cup vegetable broth; 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained; Cooked rice, for serving; 1/2 cup water; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1 tablespoon cornstarch

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The air is filled with an aromatic blend of garlic and ginger, offering a delightful preview of the GARLIC BROCCOLI STIR FRY WITH CHICKPEAS that’s about to take shape in your kitchen. The vibrant green of fresh broccoli contrasts beautifully against the golden-brown chickpeas, creating a dish that is not just nourishing but also a treat for the eyes. As I cook, memories of bustling weeknights in my home come flooding back—the laughter, the shared meals, and the satisfaction of whipping up something quick yet extraordinary.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make GARLIC BROCCOLI STIR FRY WITH CHICKPEAS
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas

Whether you’re cozying up with family on a chilly evening or throwing a last-minute dinner party, this stir fry definitely fits the bill. With its effortless cooking time of just 25 minutes, it ensures that you won’t be spending hours in the kitchen, and you can revel in the joyous chatter as your loved ones gather around the table. The moment you make this vibrant dish, you’ll feel inspired and encouraged to add it to your regular dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Whip it up in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness creates a flavor explosion.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Those bright green broccoli florets are simply gorgeous on a plate.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it over rice or as a main dish; it’s perfect for any occasion!
Diet-Friendly Options: This recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and suitable for various dietary preferences!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Oil: A tablespoon of your favorite cooking oil (like olive or coconut) helps with sautéing and enhances flavor.
Onion: One medium diced onion adds a depth of sweetness and complexity. You can substitute with shallots if desired.
Garlic: Five garlic cloves, minced, provide that unmistakable garlic flavor; feel free to reduce if you prefer something milder.
Ginger: A heaped tablespoon of fresh ginger, minced, brings warmth and spice; ground ginger can be a substitute in a pinch, but fresh is best for flavor.
Onion Powder: Just a teaspoon rounds out the flavor; it’s optional if you have fresh onion.
Paprika & Smoked Paprika: One teaspoon of paprika and a half teaspoon of smoked paprika lend a smoky undertone; you can omit the smoked for a more traditional flavor.
Black Pepper & Sea Salt: Season to taste; make sure to taste as you go for the right balance.
Cayenne Pepper: A pinch of cayenne adds a gentle kick; adjust according to your heat preference.
Broccoli: One medium head of broccoli cut into small florets not only adds texture but is packed with nutrients; you can use frozen broccoli if fresh is unavailable.
Vegetable Broth: A third of a cup keeps everything moist and enhances flavor; homemade broth adds extra depth if you have it on hand.
Chickpeas: One 15 oz can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained, provides protein and makes the dish hearty.
Cooked Rice: Use your favorite rice or grain for serving; it makes a great base for the stir fry.
Water: Half a cup of water helps thin the sauce; use low-sodium broth for added flavor.
Soy Sauce: Three tablespoons of soy sauce add umami richness; opt for gluten-free if needed.
Rice Vinegar or Balsamic Vinegar: Two tablespoons contribute acidity; balsamic would yield a sweeter taste.
Maple Syrup: Two tablespoons of maple syrup (or your sweetener of choice) balance the flavors beautifully.
Cornstarch: A tablespoon helps thicken the sauce for a perfect glaze.

How to Make GARLIC BROCCOLI STIR FRY WITH CHICKPEAS

Heat and Sauté: Begin by heating the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add in your diced onion, minced garlic, and ginger along with the onion powder, paprika, smoked paprika, black pepper, sea salt, and a pinch of cayenne. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and the kitchen fills with those irresistible aromas.

Add Broccoli: Next, toss in the small broccoli florets along with the vegetable broth. Stir everything together and let it fry for around 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re aiming for tender yet crisp broccoli; it should be vibrant green and fragrant, but not mushy.

Whisk the Sauce: While the broccoli cooks, grab a medium bowl and combine the water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and cornstarch. Whisk until you’ve got a smooth mixture; it should be just slightly thick. This sauce will elevate your stir fry to the next level!

Add Chickpeas and Sauce: Once the broccoli is just right, pour your sauce into the pan and gently fold in the chickpeas. Give it a good stir to coat the veggies and chickpeas evenly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil; you want to see it start bubbling around the edges.

Simmer and Taste: Allow everything to simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully. At this point, taste your stir fry and adjust the seasonings if necessary—add more salt, pepper, or cayenne if desired, depending on your taste buds.

Serve and Enjoy: To finish, serve the stir fry over your favorite cooked rice. Garnish with additional chili flakes if you’re feeling spicy, and dig in while warm. You’ll love every bite of this hearty yet healthy meal!

Storing & Reheating

To store your GARLIC BROCCOLI STIR FRY WITH CHICKPEAS, let it cool and place it in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months; simply transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water to refresh the texture. Keep in mind that while the flavors will still be delightful, the broccoli might lose a bit of its original crispness.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the broccoli fries evenly and becomes nicely caramelized.
If you find the sauce too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up, creating the perfect glaze.
Want more protein? Add some tofu or tempeh, or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture.
Play with seasoning—try adding a splash of sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor.
For keep-ahead options, prep all the ingredients beforehand and just stir fry when you’re ready to eat.
Remember to taste as you cook; it’s the best way to ensure you get the flavor just right!

The GARLIC BROCCOLI STIR FRY WITH CHICKPEAS delivers a wholesome, vibrant meal packed with flavor and nutrients. It’s simple enough for a quick dinner yet impressive enough for entertaining. Feel free to play around with the ingredients and enjoy the creativity of cooking! No matter how you serve it, you’re in for a tasty experience that you’ll want to share with family and friends.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just add it directly to the pan without thawing first. Keep in mind that it may cook a bit faster, so watch it closely to avoid overcooking.

What if I don’t have chickpeas?

If you don’t have chickpeas on hand, you can substitute them with another protein, like edamame, black beans, or even tofu. Each option will give a unique twist to the dish while keeping it hearty.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stir fry ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. Just be aware that the broccoli may become softer, but the flavors will still shine through. Reheat gently to maintain the integrity of the dish.

How can I adjust the spice level?

To adjust the spice level, simply minimize the amount of cayenne pepper or leave it out entirely. You can always add a splash of hot sauce when serving for those who love the heat!