How to Prepare Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan)

Since I am the cook of the family and basically control our home’s entire menu, certain responsibility sits on me to make sure we get a balanced diet. On the days we’re not stuffing our faces with pizza or takeout, it is necessary that we find a way to incorporate vegetables into our daily meals. 

When one traditionally thinks about vegetables a few go-to items tend to be carrots, cauliflower, or broccoli. Nothing against those, but I think there’s a reason you tend to find those bagged in the frozen section – they’re just not that exciting. I find that Chinese broccoli is a bit more exciting (leafy & crunchy) and can be prepared in more tasty ways, so it is a welcome addition to our refrigerator’s crisper.

Time

5 minute prep

10 minute cook

Ingredients

4-5 stalks of chinese broccoli

4 cloves of garlic chopped

½ tbs sesame oil

Kosher Salt

Pepper

Sesame seeds

Steps

1. Wash the gai lan and shake off the excess water. Wash all your vegetables before eating, unless you like earth in your teeth.
2. For this recipe I cut the gai lan across in thirds, leaving a stem and leafy parts. It is easier to portion out smaller pieces when you serve.
3. Also for this recipe I use a wok. A wok can seem scary for anyone who hasn’t used one before, but they are so versatile. You can read more on my experience with woks if you like here. However, you can still use a large frying pan as long as it gives you some room to toss and stir the gai lan.
4. Heat the pan or wok on a medium-high heat and toss in the sesame oil and garlic. Stir and let that cook the garlic until about brown. Turn down the heat to medium.
5. Place the gai lan into the pan and toss to coat with the oil and garlic. Once coated I let this cook for about 3-5 minutes, occasionally tossing to ensure all parts (especially the thicker stems) get exposed to the heat. I like to cook it long enough for the leaves to wilt a bit but short enough to keep the stalks crunchy. 
6. Before plating, sprinkle a pinch of kosher salt and pepper to taste, then give it one more toss. Once the leaves wilt and the gai lan reduces down in volume, you’re good to serve. 
7. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve immediately.

Broc on!