This Easy Garlic Broccoli Chickpea Stir Fry is a quick and tasty dish packed with flavor. The crisp broccoli and hearty chickpeas become best friends with a hint of garlic—you’ll love it!
It’s perfect for busy days when you want something healthy without the fuss. Just toss everything in a pan, and in no time, you’ll have a colorful meal that’s sure to impress!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets provide a crisp texture and a vibrant green color. If you can’t find fresh, frozen broccoli works in a pinch, just adjust cooking time to avoid mushiness!
Chickpeas: These add protein and a nice bite. If you’re looking for a different flavor or texture, you can use cooked lentils or tofu instead. They both work well in stir fries!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for a robust flavor. If fresh isn’t available, garlic powder can substitute—use about 1/8 teaspoon instead.
Soy Sauce: This adds savory depth. For a gluten-free option, tamari is a great choice. Coconut aminos can be used as a lower-sodium alternative.
Vinegar: Rice vinegar adds a nice tang. Apple cider vinegar can be used too, but know it has a stronger flavor. Lemon juice could even work as a swap!
How Do I Get My Broccoli Just Right in a Stir Fry?
To perfectly cook broccoli, aim for that vibrant color and a bit of crunch. Start by heating your oil over medium-high heat, then add the minced garlic for flavor but don’t let it brown too much.
- Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for just 3-5 minutes; you’ll want them bright green and tender-crisp.
- If fresh broccoli isn’t available, frozen florets should be added when the garlic starts to smell—this helps keep them crisp, so don’t overcook!
Keep an eye on your veggies for that perfect bite! Enjoy your stir fry adventure!
Easy Garlic Broccoli Chickpea Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce or oyster sauce (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth
- Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Cooked white or brown rice, to serve
- Chopped green onions or chives, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This flavorful stir fry takes about 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick 20-minute meal. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something healthy and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the vegetable or olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. This should take about 1 minute.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds. You want it fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown too much, as that can make it taste bitter.
3. Cook the Broccoli:
Next, throw in the broccoli florets. Stir-fry them for about 3 to 5 minutes until they’re bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. This is where you get that perfect crunch!
4. Add the Chickpeas:
Now, add in the drained and rinsed chickpeas. Stir everything together so the chickpeas mix well with the garlic and broccoli.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
In a separate small bowl, mix the soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), vinegar, maple syrup or honey, and water or vegetable broth. Stir until well combined.
6. Combine & Cook:
Pour the sauce over the broccoli and chickpeas in the skillet. Toss everything to coat evenly and allow it to cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken slightly and soak into everything.
7. Season to Taste:
If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes to your liking. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or soy sauce if necessary.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your stir fry hot over a bed of cooked rice. Top it off with sesame seeds and chopped green onions or chives for a lovely finish!
This Easy Garlic Broccoli Chickpea Stir Fry is quick, delicious, and packed with nutrients. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Broccoli Chickpea Stir Fry
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Stir Fry?
Absolutely! This stir fry is very versatile. You can substitute broccoli with other veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly to ensure everything is tender but still crisp!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in a skillet on the stove. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes, if you want more heat, consider adding fresh sliced chili peppers or increasing the amount of red pepper flakes. You can also serve it with a drizzle of sriracha or chili oil for an extra kick!
What Can I Use Instead of Chickpeas?
If you’re looking for alternatives to chickpeas, white beans or cooked lentils are great options! For a protein boost, you can also use cubed tofu; just be sure to sauté it until golden for extra flavor.
