Chinese Broccoli with Oyster Sauce - Veracruz Style

Ingredients

In this Veracruzian adaptation, the traditional Chinese broccoli with oyster sauce is enhanced with the flavors of Veracruz cuisine. The oyster sauce is transformed by incorporating ingredients like tomatoes, chili peppers, and cilantro, which are commonly used in Veracruzian dishes. This infusion of flavors adds a tangy and slightly spicy twist to the dish, creating a unique fusion of Chinese and Veracruzian culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Chinese Broccoli with Oyster Sauce, so you can check it out.

• 1 lb (450g) Chinese broccoli 1 lb (450g) Chinese broccoli
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 chili pepper, thinly sliced 1 chili pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Wash the Chinese broccoli thoroughly and trim off the tough ends. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. 3.
   Add the minced garlic and sliced onion to the skillet and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden.
4. 4.
   Add the diced tomatoes and sliced chili pepper to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the tomatoes start to soften.
5. 5.
   Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the Chinese broccoli. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
6. 6.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice. Pour the sauce over the broccoli and toss to coat evenly.
7. 7.
   Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
8. 8.
   Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
9. 9.
   Serve hot as a side dish or over steamed rice as a main course.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chinese broccoli — Make sure to trim off the tough ends and cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Oyster sauce — Look for vegetarian or vegan oyster sauce if you prefer a plant-based version of this dish.
• Chili pepper — Adjust the amount of chili pepper according to your spice preference.
• Lime juice — Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a bright and tangy flavor to the dish.
• Cilantro — Use fresh cilantro leaves for garnish to add a refreshing herbal note.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add more chili peppers or include some crushed red pepper flakes.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili pepper or omit it altogether.
• Serve the dish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra burst of tanginess.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for additional texture and flavor.
• To make it a complete meal, add cooked shrimp, tofu, or chicken to the stir-fry.

Serving advice

Serve the Veracruzian Chinese Broccoli with Oyster Sauce as a side dish alongside your favorite Veracruzian main course, such as Veracruz-style fish or shrimp. Alternatively, enjoy it as a light and flavorful main course by serving it over steamed rice or noodles.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stir-fried Chinese broccoli on a platter and drizzle the Veracruz-style oyster sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color. Serve it family-style, allowing everyone to help themselves and appreciate the vibrant colors and enticing aroma.