Description
A vibrant and spicy sautéed broccolini dish featuring a garlicky, chili-infused sauce, toasted sesame seeds, and a bright touch of rice vinegar. Perfect as a flavorful side that combines tender-crisp broccolini with aromatic Asian-inspired seasonings.
Ingredients
Scale
Broccolini
- 1 lb broccolini (sometimes labeled as baby broccoli)
Oils & Aromatics
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 2 Tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
- 2 tsp fresh garlic, minced
Seasonings & Garnish
- 1 Tbsp fresh chili paste (such as Sambal Oelek)
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 Tbsp rice wine vinegar
- 1 Tbsp sesame seeds
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly-ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccolini: Trim any rough ends from the broccolini stalks and halve any stalks thicker than 1/2 inch lengthwise. Fill a large bowl with ice water and set aside for blanching.
- Blanch the Broccolini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccolini and cook for 2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Immediately transfer to the ice water to stop cooking and preserve color and texture.
- Heat the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil until shimmering. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until softened and fragrant. Stir in chili paste and sugar, cooking for another 30 seconds to blend flavors.
- Drain and Dry Broccolini: Drain the blanched broccolini from the ice bath and gently pat mostly dry using paper towels to avoid excess moisture during sautéing.
- Sauté the Broccolini: Add the broccolini to the skillet with the aromatics. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil and rice wine vinegar over it. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously until the broccolini is tender yet crisp and vibrantly green.
- Season and Garnish: Season with kosher salt and freshly-ground black pepper to taste. Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly on top. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust the chili paste amount according to preferred spice level.
- Blanching in ice water is key to preserving the broccolini’s vibrant color and crisp texture.
- Do not overcook during sautéing to maintain a fresh, al dente bite.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats, tofu, or as part of an Asian-inspired meal.
- Sambal Oelek can be substituted with another spicy chili garlic sauce if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Keywords: broccolini, sautéed broccolini, spicy broccolini, sesame garlic broccolini, Asian side dish, Sambal Oelek recipe, quick vegetable side
