Name: Spicy Sautéed Sesame Garlic Broccolini Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb broccolini (sometimes labeled as baby broccoli); 1 Tbsp sesame oil; 2 Tbsp vegetable oil (divided); 2 tsp fresh garlic, minced; 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

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Introduction

This Spicy Sautéed Sesame Garlic Broccolini is a vibrant and flavorful side dish perfect for any meal. With a combination of sesame oil, garlic, and chili paste, it delivers a delightful kick while keeping the broccolini tender and crisp.

Bright green broccolini stalks with tender florets are neatly arranged on a speckled white plate. The broccolini is topped with small pieces of golden-brown sautéed garlic and sprinkled with white and black sesame seeds. A wooden spatula rests partially on the right side of the plate, and a small white bowl containing more sesame seeds with a red spoon is placed in the upper right corner on a white marbled surface, creating a fresh and vibrant setting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb broccolini (sometimes labeled as baby broccoli)
1 Tbsp sesame oil
2 Tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
2 tsp fresh garlic, minced
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

Step 1: 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.
Step 2: 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.
Step 3: 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.
Step 4: Drain the blanched broccolini from the ice bath and gently pat mostly dry using paper towels to avoid excess moisture during sautéing.
Step 5: 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.
Step 6: 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.

Tips & Variations

For a milder heat, reduce the chili paste or substitute with a sweet chili sauce.
Try adding a splash of soy sauce for extra umami flavor.
Toast the sesame seeds lightly before adding for a nuttier taste.
If broccolini is unavailable, baby broccoli or tender broccoli florets are good substitutes.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to maintain crispness. Avoid overheating to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

The image shows a white oval plate filled with steamed broccolini, laid out in two layers with bright green stems and darker green leafy tops. The texture of the broccolini looks soft but fresh, with some garlic pieces scattered on top, adding small light beige spots among the green. Next to the plate on the white marbled surface are two white garlic cloves, a yellow bowl with crushed red pepper flakes, and a small round glass bowl with sesame seeds. Resting on the plate’s right edge are a pair of reddish-brown chopsticks. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular broccoli instead of broccolini?

Yes, regular broccoli can be used, but it may require slightly longer blanching and sautéing times since the stalks are thicker.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level depends on the amount and type of chili paste used. Sambal Oelek provides moderate heat, but you can adjust the quantity or use a milder chili sauce to suit your taste.