A Kid-Approved Broccoli Recipe that will not only have your children happily eating their greens but also asking for seconds. Say goodbye to mealtime battles and hello to nutritious, delicious eating experiences.

As parents, we all know the struggle of trying to get our kids to eat their veggies. Broccoli, in particular, seems to have a notorious reputation among the little ones. Its green florets often face resistance at the dinner table, met with wrinkled noses and declarations of “I don’t like broccoli!”

Get ready to transform broccoli from a dreaded vegetable to a beloved family favorite!

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Broccoli Recipe

500g broccoli florets
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon soy sauce (you can use low-sodium soy sauce if preferred)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Thinly sliced green onions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Rinse the broccoli florets under cold water and drain them thoroughly. Cut into bite-sized florets.
Fill a large pot with about 1-2 inches of water and bring it to a boil over high heat.
Place a steamer basket in the pot and add the broccoli florets to the basket.
Cover the pot with a lid and steam the broccoli for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s bright green and tender but still slightly crisp. Avoid overcooking as it can make the broccoli mushy.
Once the broccoli is cooked, carefully remove it from the steamer basket and transfer it to a large bowl to cool down.
In a small bowl, combine the toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Pour the prepared sauce over the cooled broccoli florets in the bowl.
Gently toss the broccoli with the sauce until each floret is evenly coated, and transfer to a serving dish.
Sprinkle some sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions on top for added flavor and presentation.
Serve and Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

As a Side Dish alongside roasted chicken, fish, or tofu for a balanced meal.
In Rice Bowls or grain bowls for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
With Noodles and a drizzle of extra soy sauce for a simple and satisfying noodle dish.

Variations:

Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Special Hot Sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Honey Sesame Broccoli: Drizzle the broccoli with a mixture of honey and sesame oil before serving for a hint of sweetness.
Asian-Inspired Marinade: Marinate the broccoli in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic before steaming for extra flavor.
Citrus Twist: Squeeze some fresh lemon or lime juice over the broccoli before serving for a bright and tangy flavor.

Tips:

Customize to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning and ingredients according to your preferences.
Make It a Meal: Turn it into a complete meal by adding protein such as grilled shrimp, sliced steak, or crispy tofu.
Meal Prep: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving. Or eat cold.

Why Kids Will Love It

Flavorful Sauce: The combination of toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, and garlic powder creates a deliciously savory and slightly sweet sauce that kids will love. It adds just the right amount of flavor to make broccoli more enjoyable.
Kid-Friendly Texture: Steaming the broccoli ensures that it’s cooked to perfection—tender yet still slightly crisp. This texture is pleasing to kids’ palates, avoiding any mushiness that might turn them off.
Fun Presentation: Optional garnishes like sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions not only add visual appeal but also provide a fun and interactive element to the dish. Kids will enjoy sprinkling them over their broccoli creations.
Engagement in Cooking: Involving kids in the cooking process, whether it’s rinsing the broccoli, whisking the sauce, or sprinkling garnishes, can increase their excitement and willingness to try new foods. This recipe offers plenty of opportunities for kids to participate in the kitchen.
Empowerment to Choose: Offering variations and customization options empowers kids to have a say in their meals. Whether they prefer a bit of spice, a touch of sweetness, or a citrus twist, they can tailor the dish to their liking.
Positive Reinforcement: Encouraging kids to try new foods, especially when they’re involved in the cooking process, can build positive associations with healthy eating. When they discover how delicious broccoli can be with the right flavors, they’re more likely to ask for it again in the future.
Feeling of Ownership: By labeling it as a “Kid-Approved” recipe, children may feel a sense of ownership over the dish, making them more inclined to embrace it as one of their favorites.

Try More Delicious Recipes with Broccoli

Fresh and Flavorful: Broccoli Rice Bowl with Salmon

Pitta Bread with Chicken and Coleslaw

Broccoli and Green Pea Soup: A Family-Friendly Dish

Baked Salmon with Broccoli & Shiitake