Description
This Chinese Broccoli (Yum Cha Style) recipe features tender steamed gai lan tossed in a savory garlic oyster sauce perfect for a quick and flavorful side dish. The tender crunchy stems and vibrant leaves are briefly boiled to retain their bright green color and then topped with a fragrant sauce made from oyster sauce, soy, garlic, and a touch of sweetness. An easy, traditional Yum Cha style vegetable dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of Asian meals or can be enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 bunch Chinese broccoli (gai lan), leaves and stalks separated, thick stalks halved lengthways
Seasonings & Sauce
- 1 tsp sea salt flakes
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (or neutral-flavoured oil of choice)
- 1 tsp freshly minced garlic
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce (vegetarian option available see note 1)
- 1 tsp light soy sauce
- 1 tsp white sugar
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions
- Cook the broccoli – Bring a medium pot of water to a rapid boil and add the sea salt. Add the Chinese broccoli stems first and cook for 1 minute. Then add the leaves and cook for an additional 1 minute, ensuring the stems are just tender yet still bright green. Drain immediately and transfer the broccoli to a serving plate.
- Make the sauce – Using the same pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the freshly minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
- Prepare the oyster sauce mixture – Stir in the oyster sauce, light soy sauce, white sugar, optional sesame oil, and water into the pan. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 1–2 minutes until it slightly thickens and the flavors meld together.
- Combine and serve – Pour the warm sauce directly over the steamed Chinese broccoli on the serving plate. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors.
Notes
- Vegetarian version: Use vegetarian oyster sauce or mushroom sauce in place of traditional oyster sauce.
- Do not overcook the Chinese broccoli to maintain crisp texture and bright color.
- Sesame oil is optional but adds a lovely nutty aroma to the sauce.
- Adjust sugar quantity to taste for desired sweetness.
- Serve as a side dish with rice and other Yum Cha style dishes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Keywords: Chinese broccoli, gai lan, Yum Cha, steamed vegetable, oyster sauce, garlic sauce, side dish, Chinese cuisine
