Sesame Broccoli (Korean Broccoli Side Dish)

This simple Korean side dish is shockingly easy to make. It's an easy way to add a flavorful vegetable to any meal, so put this sesame broccoli recipe in your regular rotation!

Course Banchan, Side Dish

Cuisine Korean, Korean American

Keyword Broccoli Banchan, Broccoli Recipe, Broccoli Side Dish, Korean Broccoli Side Dish

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Servings servings

Calories 119kcal

Author Cara Harbstreet

Ingredients

16 oz broccoli florets from fresh or frozen broccoli (see instructions)
water to fill a large pot
water and ice cubes for an ice bath
2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
2 tsp minced garlic about two large cloves
1 tsp low sodium soy sauce
1 tsp sugar

Optional Additions

gochugaru
green onions thinly sliced

Instructions

If needed, trim the broccoli florets to remove leaves or long stalks.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. As you wait for the water to boil, prepare an ice bath in a large bowl.
Once the water is boiling, blanch the broccoli for 2 1/2 minutes, or until tender crisp and vibrant green. Quickly drain, then transfer the broccoli to the ice bath to shock and stop the cooking process.
Once cooled, drain the broccoli well to remove as much water as possible. In a large bowl, mix the broccoli with the sesame oil, sesame seeds, garlic, soy sauce, and sugar. Toss or mix together until fully combined.
Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled. Top with additional sesame seeds or gochugaru and green onions (if using).

For Frozen Broccoli

Option 1: Remove the frozen broccoli from the freezer and place in a large strainer or colander. Rinse under warm running water to thaw the broccoli, then set aside to allow it to drain as it fully thaws (about 10 minutes).
Option 2: Steam in the bag following the instructions for microwave steaming. Vent the bag to allow the steamed broccoli to cool, then drain excess water from the broccoli.
Continue with Steps 4 and 5 from above, mixing the thawed or steamed broccoli with the sesame oil, sesame seeds, garlic, soy sauce, sugar, and optional garnishes.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. Note that the broccoli will release some liquid as it rests. To reserve, drain excess liquid, and drizzle with sesame oil to refresh the flavor.

Serving sizes will vary, but assume 4 to 6 servings depending on your appetite.

Nutrition