Vegan Chicken and Broccoli with soy curls come together quickly and are satisfyingly hearty. The soy curls function as tender vegan chicken and absorb the sauce wonderfully. Broccoli enhances the dish with a burst of freshness, a crisp texture, and vibrant color. A straightforward garlic soy sauce unites all the flavors. The prep is a breeze, and the dish comes together in minutes, serving up a nutritious lunch or dinner. Featuring ample protein, Soy Curls Vegan Chicken and Broccoli tastes light and delivers a deliciously comforting flavor. Pair it with rice or a bed of noodles to round out the dish into a full meal.
STATS
- Diet: Vegan, Dairy-free, High-protein
- Size/serving: 1 bowl
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Time for prep: 15 minutes
- Working time (total): 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Course: Main course
- Level of difficulty: Easy
- Mode of cooking: Stove-top sauté
- Total yield: 4 servings
EQUIPMENT
- Large skillet/wok
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Colander
- Spatula
INGREDIENTS
- Two cups of dry soy curls
- Three cups of heated vegetable stock (to soak in)
- Two cups of florets of broccoli
- One tablespoon of sesame oil
- Two tablespoons of tamari or soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of hoisin flavoring
- One teaspoon of freshly grated ginger
- One tablespoon of rice vinegar
- Two minced garlic cloves
- An optional half-teaspoon of red pepper flakes
- For garnish, use two sliced green onions.
- Add sesame seeds as a garnish (optional).
- One teaspoon of cornstarch and two teaspoons of water
INGREDIENT NOTES
Soy curls
- Constructed from whole soybeans. Once rehydrated, they assume a chicken-like texture and readily absorb flavor.
Vegetable broth
- Utilized to re-hydrate soy curls. Instead of using merely plain water, it imparts depth.
Broccoli florets
- Introduce crunch, vibrant color, and an array of nutrients. Steam them for only a few minutes to keep them vividly green.
Sesame oil
- Imparts a nutty fragrance. A touch of it improves the sauce.
Soy sauce
- The sauce begins with soy sauce. Substitute tamari for gluten-free cooking.
Hoisin sauce
- Imparts sweetness and body. Temper’s the salty soy sauce.
Rice vinegar
- Adds acidity. Preventing the sauce from being overly heavy.
Garlic
- Provides pronounced savory flavors. Always choose fresh garlic over the dried variety.
Ginger
It imparts warmth and a hint of spice. Dovetails nicely with garlic in stir-fries.
Cornstarch slurry
- Thickens the sauce. Formulates a glossy coating.
Red pepper flakes
- Optional, for a gentle heat. Omit it if you are sensitive to spice.
Green onions
- Bright garnish. Enhances the finish with freshness.
Sesame seeds
- Optional topping. Create appearance and finish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- For ten minutes, soak the soy curls in hot vegetable broth.
- Squeeze out any extra liquid after draining.
- In a skillet, heat the sesame oil over a low flame.
- Cook the soy curls until they are just beginning to brown.
- Add ginger and garlic and stir. Cook till aromatic, about 1 minute.
- Stir-fry the broccoli florets for three minutes.
- Broccoli should be kept just crisp.
- Mix the red pepper flakes, vinegar made from rice, hoisin sauce, and soy sauce in a bowl. Transfer to a skillet.
- Mix everything together. Simmer for two minutes.
- Pour in the cornstarch slurry.
- Cook till the sauce coats and thickens the broccoli and soy curls. Decorate with green onions & sesame seeds.
- Serve heated over noodles or rice.
TIPS
- Don’t over-soak soy curls/they turn mushy.
- Brown soy curls in advance of adding sauce for better texture.
- If you prefer it nice and crisp, steam broccoli separately.
- Dye the sauce to serve.
- Freeze for an easy future lunch.
STORAGE INFORMATION
Fridge
- Keep in a sealed bag for three to four days. Warm up again in a microwave or skillet.
Freezer
- Freeze for no more than two months. Reheat with a little water after letting it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
FAQS
Can I use frozen broccoli?
- Yes, be sure to thaw and pat thoroughly dry before incorporating into the stir-fry.
What can I substitute in place of soy curls?
- Substitute tofu or seitan for soy curls if you do not have them on hand.
Is there gluten in this recipe?
- Yes, provided you use a gluten-free hoisin and swap out the soy sauce for tamari.
Can I make it oil-free?
- Yes, sauté the vegetables in broth rather than sesame oil.
What should I serve it with?
- Rice, noodles, or quinoa are each an excellent accompaniment.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Calories: 215
Carbohydrates: 16 g
Fiber: 6 g
Protein: 20 g
Total Fat: 8 g
Calcium: 12% DV
Iron: 15% DV
Vitamin A: 18% DV
Potassium: 460 mg
Sodium: 540 mg
Serving size: 1 bowl
Servings: 4
