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

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Garlic and ginger waft through the kitchen, mingling with the vibrant green of sautéed broccoli—a scent that dances around like a warm hug. I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia as I recall family dinners filled with laughter and the clattering of plates. This GARLIC BROCCOLI STIR FRY WITH CHICKPEAS combines flavors that are both familiar and comforting, making it a perfect weeknight meal. No matter the season, this dish resonates with freshness and vitality, encouraging us to embrace those healthy eating habits we sometimes overlook.

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

When I whip up this stir fry, it feels like bringing a little of that positive energy back into the week. It’s colorful, quick to prepare, and offers a delightful crunch with each bite. If you’ve been looking for something that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, then this is the recipe for you. Get ready to taste the magic of GARLIC BROCCOLI STIR FRY WITH CHICKPEAS and make it part of your dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: A delicious medley of garlic, ginger, and savory spices brings it all together.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors of fresh broccoli and golden chickpeas make it fun to eat.
Flexible Serving: Great as a side dish or a main course, and pairs perfectly with rice.
Diet-Friendly Options: Totally vegan and gluten-free, making it accessible for various diets.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 tablespoon oil: This helps sauté the veggies! Use vegetable oil or sesame oil for an extra flavor kick.
1 onion (diced): A base flavor that adds sweetness; yellow or white onions work best.
5 garlic cloves (minced): Freshly minced for that punchy aroma—sub with garlic powder in a pinch.
1 heaped tablespoon fresh ginger (minced): Provides warmth and depth; you can use ground ginger in a lesser amount if fresh isn’t an option.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor without the texture.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild sweetness and a touch of earthiness; smoked paprika will bring a deeper flavor.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: For a subtle smoky taste; feel free to skip if you’re not a fan.
Black pepper & sea salt (to taste): Essential seasonings for balance—adjust based on your preference.
Pinch of cayenne pepper: Adds a nice spicy kick; omit for a milder dish.
1 medium head of broccoli (cut into small florets): The star ingredient, packed with nutrients and color.
1/3 cup vegetable broth: Helps steam the broccoli while adding flavor; you could use water as a substitute.
1 (15 oz) can of chickpeas (rinsed and drained): A fantastic source of protein and fiber—perfect for transforming this dish into a hearty meal.
Cooked rice of choice (for serving): Brown rice, basmati, or even quinoa make great bases for this dish.
1/2 cup of water: To balance and help create the sauce.
3 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds umami; opt for gluten-free soy sauce if desired.
2 tablespoons rice vinegar or balsamic vinegar: For acidity and balance; both give a delicious tang.
2 tablespoons maple syrup: A natural sweetener that counteracts the spices; honey can also work if not strictly vegan.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: This is crucial for thickening the sauce; you can use arrowroot as an alternative if preferred.

How to Make GARLIC BROCCOLI STIR FRY WITH CHICKPEAS

Heat Oil and Sauté Aromatics: Begin by heating your chosen oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, and ginger along with onion powder, paprika, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne. Sauté everything for about 3-4 minutes; you’re aiming for fragrant aromatics that soften, setting the flavor foundation for your stir fry.

Add Broccoli: Next, introduce the broccoli florets and pour in the vegetable broth. Stir well to coat the broccoli. Cook for around 10 minutes, ensuring the broccoli remains tender-crisp. You want it vibrant green, providing that satisfying crunch without losing its bright color.

Prepare the Sauce: While the broccoli cooks, grab a medium bowl. In it, whisk together the water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and cornstarch until smooth. This mixture will become your luscious sauce that elevates the entire dish.

Combine and Simmer: Pour the sauce into the pan, and gently fold in the rinsed chickpeas. Increase the heat and bring everything to a boil, watching as the sauce thickens—bubbling around the edges gives you a good visual cue. Continue to stir for a few more minutes, integrating all the flavors.

Taste and Adjust: Take a moment to taste your creation. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or cayenne based on your flavor preference. This is where you can really tailor the dish to your liking!

Serve and Enjoy: Finally, dish out your glorious stir fry alongside your cooked rice of choice. Each bite brings together the crunchy broccoli, hearty chickpeas, and that astonishing garlic-ginger flavor. Enjoy with friends or family tradition!

Storing & Reheating

Once you’ve savored your GARLIC BROCCOLI STIR FRY WITH CHICKPEAS, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2 hours. Then, move it to the fridge where it can last for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Just a quick tip: the texture may feel slightly different after freezing, but a splash of water while reheating can help refresh it!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Ensure you don’t overcrowd the pan; this allows for better sautéing and keeps the broccoli from steaming instead of frying.
For an extra pop of color and nutrition, feel free to add bell peppers or snap peas when you add the broccoli.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Don’t shy away from experimenting with different seasonings or a squeeze of lime juice over the top before serving for a refreshing twist!

Recipe FAQs

Can I substitute the chickpeas?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of chickpeas or simply don’t have any on hand, you can easily substitute them with another legume like black beans or even tofu for a similar protein boost. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just ensure you are using gluten-free soy sauce, and if you’re sensitive to gluten, check the labels on other ingredients you might use, like the vegetable broth.

Can I meal prep this stir fry?

Definitely! This stir fry is perfect for meal prep, holding up well in the fridge. You can batch cook the broccoli and chickpeas and easily portion them with your choice of rice for an easy grab-and-go lunch or quick weeknight dinner.

How can I enhance the flavor further?

Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can amp up the flavor. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds over the top adds a lovely nuttiness too. And if you love a bit more heat, try adding red pepper flakes when cooking!

This GARLIC BROCCOLI STIR FRY WITH CHICKPEAS is not only a delicious weeknight meal, but it’s also vibrant and easy to customize to fit your flavor preferences. So why not grab those fresh ingredients and give this recipe a try? You’re in for a treat! Enjoy!