This Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick, healthy, and delicious meal packed with vibrant broccoli, tender chickpeas, and bold flavors from garlic and ginger. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a light and satisfying dinner, this plant-based dish is as nutritious as it is tasty.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for a fast meal.
Healthy and wholesome: Packed with fresh vegetables, plant-based protein, and low-fat ingredients.

Customizable: Easily adapt the spice levels and ingredients to suit your taste.
Diet-friendly: Vegan, gluten-free, and nutrient-rich.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon oil (*see recipe notes)

1 onion, diced
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 heaped tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Black pepper & sea salt, to taste
Pinch of cayenne pepper
1 (450 g) medium head of broccoli, cut into small florets

⅓ cup (80 ml) vegetable broth
1 (15 oz) can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
Cooked rice of choice for serving

Sauce:

½ cup (120 ml) water
3 tablespoons soy sauce (gluten-free if needed)
2 tablespoons rice vinegar or balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons maple syrup or any other sweetener
1 tablespoon cornstarch

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, ginger, and all spices. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
Add broccoli florets and vegetable broth. Cook for about 10 minutes until the broccoli is tender yet crisp.
While the broccoli cooks, prepare the sauce by whisking together water, soy sauce, vinegar, maple syrup, and cornstarch in a medium bowl.

Pour the sauce into the pan and add chickpeas.
Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer until the sauce thickens. Fry for another 2-3 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more salt, pepper, or cayenne if desired.

Serve hot with your choice of cooked rice. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add more veggies: Include carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra color and texture.

Make it spicy: Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of Sriracha to the sauce.
Switch the protein: Use tofu, tempeh, or edamame instead of chickpeas.
Low-carb option: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of regular rice.

Gluten-free alternative: Ensure the soy sauce is certified gluten-free or replace it with tamari.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or vegetable broth if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Thaw it first and reduce the cooking time slightly.

2. Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild heat from cayenne pepper, but you can omit it or add more based on your preference.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stir fry and store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

4. What type of rice pairs best with this dish?

Jasmine rice, brown rice, or even quinoa are great choices.

5. Can I skip the chickpeas?

Yes, you can omit them or substitute with another protein like tofu or tempeh.

6. How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?

Add a little more water or vegetable broth if the sauce thickens too much.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure your pan is large enough to handle the increased quantity.

8. Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes, it stores well and reheats easily, making it great for meal prep.

9. Can I use a different oil?

Yes, olive oil, avocado oil, or sesame oil can be used for flavor variations.

10. How do I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

You can increase or decrease the maple syrup to match your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry is a vibrant, flavorful, and healthy meal that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any day of the week. Its bold, garlicky flavor, tender-crisp broccoli, and hearty chickpeas make it a satisfying dish the whole family will love. Pair it with your favorite rice, customize the spice level, and enjoy a wholesome homemade meal.