Oh my goodness, if there’s one dish that I absolutely adore whipping up on a busy weeknight, it’s this **Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry With Chickpeas**! Seriously, it comes together so quickly, and yet it’s bursting with flavor and good-for-you ingredients. There’s something so satisfying about the vibrant green of the broccoli paired with the hearty chickpeas, and don’t even get me started on the garlic – it just adds a terrific aroma that makes everyone in the house perk up and take notice!
I remember the first time I made this stir fry. It was a chaotic weeknight, and I was running low on groceries. I opened my fridge and saw broccoli, chickpeas, and a few other staples. I thought, “What the heck, let’s get creative!” and so this dish was born. It’s become one of my go-to recipes ever since. Plus, it’s so customizable! You can throw in whatever veggies you have on hand or substitute in different proteins. Let’s dive into how you can make this fantastic dish!
What’s in Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry With Chickpeas?
Broccoli Florets: The star of the show! Broccoli adds a gorgeous green color and loads of vitamins, particularly vitamin C and K. It brings in that satisfying crunch, too. I usually prefer fresh broccoli, but frozen can work in a pinch.
Chickpeas: These little gems are packed with protein and fiber, making this dish quite filling! I love using canned chickpeas for convenience, but if you’re feeling ambitious, home-cooked chickpeas are fantastic.
Garlic: Ah, the glorious garlic! It’s aromatic and boosts the flavor of any meal. I always go for fresh garlic cloves – the aroma when it’s sautéing is just divine!
Soy Sauce: A savory flavor enhancer that’s essential for stir-fries. I often use tamari to keep it gluten-free, which works great, too.
Oyster Sauce: Optional, but it adds a lovely sweet and umami kick. If you’re not a seafood fan or want to keep it vegetarian, feel free to skip this one!
Sesame Oil: Just a splash of it brings that nutty depth of flavor that I just can’t get enough of. Trust me, don’t skip this!
Vegetable Oil: This is what I use for stir-frying. It has a high smoke point, making it perfect for that high-temperature cooking.
Cornstarch: If you like a slightly thicker sauce, this will help achieve that silky texture. It’s optional, but I love the finish it gives.
Water: Just a touch to mix with cornstarch if you’re using it.
Sesame Seeds: These little seeds are the cherry on top! They add a nice crunch and a bit of fancy flair when garnishing.
Cooked Rice: Because what’s a stir-fry without something to soak up all that delicious sauce? You can use any type of rice or even quinoa for a healthier twist.
Is Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry With Chickpeas Good for You?
You bet it is! This dish is a powerhouse of nutrients. The **broccoli** gives you a hefty dose of vitamins and antioxidants, while the **chickpeas** provide a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, which helps keep you feeling full longer. If you’re watching your sodium intake, just choose low-sodium soy sauce or omit the **oyster sauce**.
The downside? Well, if you’re not a fan of garlic (who even are you?), this dish might not be your favorite. Also, if you have a sensitivity to soy or chickpeas, you’ll want to be cautious. Otherwise, this stir fry is a winner all around!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
– 1 tablespoon water (for cornstarch mixture, if using)
– 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
– Cooked rice (for serving)
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Servings: 2-3*
How to Make Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry With Chickpeas?
1. In a small bowl, mix the **soy sauce**, **oyster sauce** (if using), and **sesame oil**. If you’re opting for **cornstarch**, dissolve it in 1 tablespoon of water and add it to the sauce mixture. Set aside.
2. Heat the **vegetable oil** in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the minced **garlic** to the pan and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Seriously, this smell is what cooking dreams are made of!
4. Toss in the **broccoli florets** and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until they begin to soften but remain crisp and vibrant.
5. Now, add the **chickpeas** and stir for another 2-3 minutes to heat them through.
6. Pour the sauce mixture over the **broccoli** and **chickpeas**. Stir well to ensure everything gets that delicious coat. If you added **cornstarch**, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, letting the sauce thicken nicely.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
8. Serve the stir-fry over cooked **rice** and sprinkle with **sesame seeds** for that fancy finish. Enjoy!
Stir Fry Secrets and Serving Suggestions
Let me share a few tips and tricks that I’ve picked up along the way! If you want to add some heat, feel free to toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or some fresh chili slices. You could also throw in any other veggies you love; bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots all work beautifully.
Another fun idea is to serve this dish as a wrap in some lettuce leaves or along with tortillas for a more taco-inspired vibe. Trust me, it’s super versatile!
I hope you give this Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry With Chickpeas a try! It’s quick, tasty, and promotes healthy eating without sacrificing flavor. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t forget to share your experience! Happy cooking!
