This easy garlic broccoli chickpea stir fry brings together crunchy broccoli and hearty chickpeas, all tossed in a tasty garlic sauce. It’s quick to make and super satisfying!
You’ll love how colorful and vibrant this dish looks on your plate! I serve it over rice for a full meal, and it’s a hit with my family—few ingredients, big flavor! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are the star here, providing crunch and nutrients. If you’re short on fresh broccoli, frozen broccoli can work too; just make sure it’s thawed and well-drained!
Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas are convenient, but you can also use cooked dried chickpeas. For a different flavor, white beans or tofu could be great alternatives!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that punchy flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can serve in a pinch, but fresh is always best!
Sauces: Soy sauce adds depth. If you want to reduce sodium, low-sodium soy sauce is a must. You might also try tamari for a gluten-free option.
Ginger: This is optional, but it brings warmth. Ground ginger can substitute if you lack fresh ginger, just use less—about a quarter teaspoon!
How Can I Achieve the Right Cooking Technique for Stir-Frying?
The technique for stir-frying is all about high heat and quick cooking. Here are some tips to get it right:
- Use a heavy skillet or wok to distribute heat evenly.
- Chop all ingredients beforehand to ensure even cooking.
- Make sure your oil is hot before adding ingredients to get a nice sear.
- Keep everything moving! Stir constantly to avoid burning and allow for even cooking.
- For best results, don’t overcrowd the pan; stir-fry in batches if needed.
This technique captures the freshness of the vegetables while enhancing their flavors!
Easy Garlic Broccoli Chickpea Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh)
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooked white or brown rice, for serving
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 10 minutes to cook. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, wholesome meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to warm up for a minute; this helps in achieving a nice sear on the vegetables.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Next, add the minced garlic and, if you’re using it, the grated ginger. Sauté these for about 30 seconds until they get fragrant. Be careful not to let them burn, as this will affect the flavor!
3. Add the Broccoli:
Now, toss in the broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 4 to 5 minutes until they start to soften but still maintain a bit of crunch. You want them vibrant green and tender-crisp.
4. Stir in the Chickpeas:
Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until they’re warmed through. This adds heartiness to your dish!
5. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if you’re using it), sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and the cornstarch slurry. This will create a lovely sauce that adds all the flavor!
6. Combine Everything:
Pour the sauce over the broccoli and chickpeas, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Let it cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and become glossy.
7. Season and Serve:
Taste the stir-fry, and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve your delicious stir-fry hot over cooked rice, garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor!
Enjoy your quick, wholesome, and garlicky meal—and share it with friends and family for an easy midweek dinner that delights!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Broccoli Chickpea Stir Fry
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes! You can use frozen broccoli for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the stir fry. Frozen broccoli may require shorter cooking time, so prepare until heated through!
Can I Substitute Chickpeas with Another Protein?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute chickpeas with diced tofu, edamame, or even shredded chicken. Just ensure that any meat you use is fully cooked before adding it to the stir fry.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to gently warm it through, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to keep it moist.
Is This Dish Vegan?
Yes, this dish is vegan as long as you use plant-based sauces! Just check your hoisin sauce for any animal ingredients. If you’re unsure, you can skip the hoisin or use a vegan substitute.
