Savory Apple and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Name: Savory Apple and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 large apple, sliced (preferably a sweet variety); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love creating dishes that blend surprising flavors, and this Savory Apple and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a perfect example. The combination of crisp apples and tender broccoli not only makes for a colorful plate but also delivers a refreshing taste sensation. The slightly sweet apples harmonize beautifully with the savory soy sauce and the crunch of the vegetables. It’s a quick and easy recipe that I often whip up on busy weeknights, and it never fails to impress everyone at the table.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:34:28.734Z

When I decided to try something new, I stumbled upon the idea of mixing apples with broccoli in a stir-fry. It sounded unconventional, but the results were phenomenal! The apples added a natural sweetness that balanced perfectly with the garlic and soy sauce. I was amazed at how quickly this dish came together, making it the perfect option for a weeknight meal without compromising flavor.

With a dash of sesame oil to finish, this dish not only provides a gorgeous presentation but also a delightful crunch. I've learned that cooking the broccoli until just tender preserves its vibrant color and nutrients, creating a nutritious yet delicious stir-fry that my family loves!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The unique blend of sweet apples and savory broccoli
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners
Packed with nutrients and delicious flavor in every bite

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of apple is crucial for this dish. A sweet variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji adds a delightful contrast to the savory elements. These apples hold their shape well even during cooking, providing that essential crunchy texture. Avoid using overly tart apples, as they can alter the balance of flavors in the stir-fry, making it less harmonious.

Broccoli is not only the star of this dish for its nutritional benefits but also for its texture. Using fresh, vibrant green florets ensures that they maintain their bite during the cooking process. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute broccoli with green beans or snap peas, but cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on them to maintain their crunch.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When stir-frying, it's essential to keep the heat at medium to high. This high heat helps to achieve a slight caramelization of the apples while also retaining the crispness of the broccoli. If the heat is too low, the vegetables may become soggy instead of developing a nice bite. If needed, you can increase the heat slightly when adding the apple slices to expedite the cooking process, taking care not to overcook them.

Timing is also critical in stir-frying. Aim for all ingredients to come together in a short span, typically around 7-10 minutes from start to finish. This keeps the broccoli bright green and the apples tender yet crisp, ensuring a vibrant presentation. Watch for the broccoli to turn bright green and slightly tender—this is when it’s at its best.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious stir-fry:

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets
1 large apple, sliced (preferably a sweet variety)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Make sure to rinse the broccoli and slice the apple just before cooking to keep everything fresh!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a quick and tasty stir-fry:

Prepare the Ingredients

Rinse the broccoli florets under cold water and set them aside. Core and slice the apple into thin wedges, ensuring to remove any seeds.

Heat the Pan

In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Cook the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until they turn bright green and are just tender.

Add the Apples

Incorporate the apple slices into the skillet, followed by the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Enjoy this delightful dish with steamed rice or noodles!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the stir-fry by adding your favorite vegetables or protein, such as chicken or tofu, to make it even more hearty.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to prep this dish ahead of time, consider chopping the broccoli and slicing the apples just before cooking. To prevent the apples from browning, you can toss them in a little lemon juice. This not only helps with the appearance but also adds a slight zing to the flavor profile. You can store prepped veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Once cooked, this stir-fry can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. When reheating, do so in a pan over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, adding a splash of water if necessary to avoid drying out. The textures may soften, but it will still be enjoyable.

Serving Suggestions

This Savory Apple and Broccoli Stir-Fry pairs beautifully with both rice and noodles. For a complete meal, serve it over jasmine rice or mix it with soba noodles tossed with a drizzle of sesame oil for additional flavor. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds not only adds visual appeal but also contributes a delightful nutty crunch.

For a protein boost, consider adding tofu or chicken. Simply slice and sauté them in the pan before adding the broccoli. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly; larger pieces will need a few extra minutes to cook through but will complement the flavors of the stir-fry perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, any sweet apple variety works well, such as Gala or Fuji.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is vegan as is, just ensure your soy sauce is vegan.