Savory Microwave Asian Cauliflower and Broccoli Medley
This delicious and effortless side dish combines the flavors of tender broccoli and cauliflower with a savory onion sauce, perfect for any Asian-themed meal or as a healthy addition to your dinner plate. Featuring a user-friendly microwave method and straightforward steps, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. The addition of soy sauce and aromatic onion gives this medley a delightful twist that everyone will enjoy.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
SteamFresh broccoli and cauliflower mix
1 (12-ounce bag, frozen)
Cold water
2 (tablespoons)
Onion
1 (small, finely chopped)
Butter
1 (tablespoon)
Hot water
1 (cup)
Chicken bouillon granule
1 (tablespoon)
Cornstarch
2 (tablespoons)
Soy sauce
1 (tablespoon)
Pepper
1 (dash)
Instructions
1
Prepare the steam fresh broccoli and cauliflower mix according to the package directions. Set aside once done.
2
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the finely chopped onion and butter. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate.
3
Microwave the onion and butter on high for 1 to 1-1/2 minutes, or until the onions are soft and tender. Remove from the microwave and set aside.
4
In a separate bowl, dissolve the chicken bouillon granules in 1 cup of hot water. Mix well until completely dissolved.
5
In another small bowl, combine the cornstarch with the cold water. Stir until smooth and fully combined.
6
Add the soy sauce and a dash of pepper to the bouillon mixture, stirring to combine all the ingredients well.
7
Pour the bouillon mixture into the cooked onion mixture and stir thoroughly to incorporate.
8
Microwave this saucy mixture uncovered at 70% power for 2-3 minutes, stirring after each minute, or until the sauce comes to a boil and thickens.
9
Once the sauce is ready, pour it generously over the broccoli and cauliflower mix, tossing gently to coat evenly.
10
Serve hot and enjoy your Savory Microwave Asian Cauliflower and Broccoli Medley!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Microwave Asian Cauliflower and Broccoli Medley?
It is a quick and effortless side dish featuring steamed broccoli and cauliflower tossed in a savory onion and soy-based sauce.
What are the main vegetables used in this recipe?
The recipe uses a 12-ounce bag of frozen SteamFresh broccoli and cauliflower mix.
How are the vegetables prepared?
The frozen vegetables are prepared in the microwave according to the specific directions on the package.
What type of onion is required?
The recipe calls for one small onion that has been finely chopped.
How do you cook the onion?
Combine the chopped onion with butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 1 to 1-1/2 minutes.
What is the base of the savory sauce?
The sauce is based on chicken bouillon granules dissolved in hot water combined with soy sauce and pepper.
How is the sauce thickened?
A mixture of cornstarch and cold water is stirred into the sauce to act as a thickening agent.
What power setting should be used to thicken the sauce?
The saucy mixture should be microwaved at 70% power for 2-3 minutes.
Do I need to stir the sauce while it cooks?
Yes, you should stir the sauce after each minute to ensure even thickening and to prevent lumps.
Should the sauce be covered while microwaving?
No, the instructions specify to microwave the saucy mixture uncovered.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the chicken bouillon granules with vegetable bouillon granules.
How do I know when the sauce is ready?
The sauce is ready once it comes to a boil and visibly thickens.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli and cauliflower, but you must steam them until tender before adding the sauce.
What can I serve with this medley?
This dish is an excellent side for any Asian-themed meal, grilled chicken, or steamed rice.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe is savory rather than spicy, though it includes a dash of pepper for flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, use a plant-based butter substitute and vegetable bouillon.
Is the dish gluten-free?
It can be gluten-free if you use a certified gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and gluten-free bouillon.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 ingredients: frozen veg mix, cold water, onion, butter, hot water, chicken bouillon, cornstarch, soy sauce, and pepper.
How do I prevent the cornstarch from clumping?
Mix the cornstarch with cold water separately until smooth before adding it to the bouillon mixture.
How much butter is needed?
The recipe requires one tablespoon of butter.
What is the total cooking time for the sauce?
The sauce takes approximately 2 to 3 minutes to boil and thicken in the microwave.
Can I add garlic to the recipe?
Yes, adding minced garlic to the onion and butter mixture would enhance the Asian flavor profile.
Should I serve this dish hot or cold?
This medley is intended to be served hot immediately after tossing the vegetables in the sauce.
Can I use low-sodium soy sauce?
Yes, low-sodium soy sauce works perfectly and can help reduce the overall salt content.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended after the sauce is applied as the texture of the vegetables and sauce may change.
What type of bouillon is best?
Chicken bouillon granules are recommended, but a bouillon cube dissolved in hot water can also be used.
Can I use different vegetables?
Yes, this savory sauce also pairs well with carrots, snap peas, or green beans.
What is the purpose of the hot water?
Hot water is used to properly dissolve the chicken bouillon granules.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Absolutely, the use of a microwave makes this a very fast and convenient recipe for busy schedules.