Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main dish in this recipe?
The main dish is a Savory Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Water Chestnuts and Oyster Sauce.
What cut of chicken is best for this stir-fry?
Skinless and boneless chicken breast is used, sliced thin crosswise into 1/4 inch pieces.
How long should the chicken marinate?
The chicken should marinate for approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
What are the ingredients in the chicken marinade?
The marinade consists of cornstarch, dry sherry, salt, and pepper.
How do I prepare the broccoli for this recipe?
Cut the florets from the stems, then peel and slice the stems into 2-inch pieces about 1/2 inch thick.
Why should I blanch the broccoli first?
Blanching ensures the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender before it is added to the high-heat stir-fry.
How long should the broccoli be boiled?
The broccoli should be cooked in boiling salted water for about 3 minutes.
What should I do after draining the boiled broccoli?
Rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process and then drain it well.
What type of pan is recommended for stir-frying?
A wok or a large skillet is recommended for this recipe.
At what temperature should the oil be for stir-frying?
The oil should be heated over high heat until it is just beginning to smoke.
How long do I stir-fry the garlic and ginger?
Stir-fry the minced garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked during the stir-fry?
The chicken is ready when the pieces turn white and opaque, which takes about 3 to 5 minutes.
What ingredients make up the stir-fry sauce?
The sauce is composed of oyster sauce, chicken broth, and a teaspoon of sugar.
When do I add the water chestnuts?
Add the sliced water chestnuts at the same time as the cooked broccoli and the sauce ingredients.
How long is the final stir-fry step?
The final stir-fry takes about 3 minutes until the vegetables are tender and heated through.
What are the suggested serving options?
This dish can be served alone or over a bed of fluffy steamed rice.
How many calories are in a serving of this dish?
There are approximately 53 calories per serving.
What is the protein content of this recipe?
Each serving contains about 5 grams of protein.
Is this a low-fat recipe?
Yes, it contains approximately 2.5 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this stir-fry?
There are 3 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How many ingredients are required in total?
The recipe requires 13 ingredients including seasonings and liquids.
What role does cornstarch play in the recipe?
Cornstarch is used to coat the chicken, helping to create a velvety texture and thicken the sauce.
Can I use a substitute for dry sherry?
While not specified in the recipe, common substitutes for dry sherry include rice wine or white grape juice.
Are water chestnuts mandatory?
They provide a specific crunch to the dish, but the recipe can be made without them if preferred.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and a weeknight dinner due to its fast preparation and cooking time.
What kind of cuisine does this recipe represent?
This is an Asian-style stir-fry recipe.
Does the recipe use fresh or ground ginger?
The recipe calls for a slice of fresh ginger, minced.
How much oyster sauce is needed?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce.
Is this considered a healthy recipe?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy recipe with lean chicken and fresh broccoli.
How much oil is used for the stir-fry?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of oil.