Chili Crisp Broccoli Rice Bowl

Spicy chili crisp broccoli rice bowls are my favorite answer to a quick weeknight craving for comfort food with a punch They are incredibly simple yet somehow feel entirely fresh and special The first time I made this for lunch it delivered exactly what I needed bold flavor with minimal effort

This simple bowl got me through a busy winter working from home I tossed it together on a whim and have since made it every week for its bright colors and big taste

Ingredients

• Cooked white or brown rice: Creates a cozy and satisfying base Leftover rice works great and saves time
• Fresh broccoli florets: Deliver crunch and a dose of winter brightness Pick the darkest green broccoli with firm stalks for the sweetest flavor
• Chili crisp oil: Gives both heat and garlicky crunch Seek out a brand with lots of dried chilies and real bits for best texture
• Soy sauce: Seasons the entire dish with savory umami For gluten free swap in tamari or coconut aminos
• Sesame seeds: Add nutty crunch as a finishing touch I like toasted seeds with a golden color for the deepest flavor
• Scallions: Bring a fresh herbal bite Choose slim crisp stalks and slice thinly for the prettiest garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Broccoli:

Cut broccoli into small evenly sized florets This helps them cook quickly and evenly Rinse them under cold water and shake dry

Steam or Roast the Broccoli:

For steaming place florets in a steamer basket over boiling water and cover Steam on medium for about four to five minutes until just fork tender with some bite For roasting toss broccoli with a drizzle of oil and spread on a sheet tray Roast at four hundred degrees for around twelve minutes until bright green and slightly crisp at the edges

Warm the Rice:

If using leftover rice fluff with a fork and microwave until warm Spread hot rice in your serving bowls

Toss and Season:

Add cooked broccoli to the bowl with rice Pour over soy sauce and toss gently so all pieces pick up the seasoning

Drizzle Chili Crisp:

Spoon chili crisp oil over the bowl letting the crunchy bits scatter across the top Drizzle more oil for extra flavor

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallions These add layer of color crunch and freshness Tuck in right away for the best texture

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Chili crisp is my obsession lately I first tried it at a friend’s house and instantly bought three jars to tuck into lunchboxes and even snack on with roasted veggies The way it wakes up broccoli is just unmatched in my kitchen

Storage Tips

Leftover bowls keep well in a covered container in the fridge for up to three days For the freshest experience store chili crisp and garnishes separately and add right before eating This stops the crunchy bits from getting soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap white rice for brown jasmine rice or even cauliflower rice for a lighter twist If you do not have chili crisp a homemade blend of olive oil red chili flakes and minced garlic makes an easy substitute Broccolini or cauliflower both work in place of broccoli and bring their own delicious spirit

Serving Suggestions

Serve this bowl with a drizzle of extra soy sauce or a squeeze of lemon for a punch of brightness It pairs well with crispy tofu or leftover chicken for added protein For a dinner party let everyone build their own bowl with extra garnishes and toppings

Chili Crisp’s Trendy Rise

Chili crisp has exploded on social media and for good reason It brings heat crunch and a little magic to the plainest vegetables You can find endless varieties from spicy Sichuan inspired jars to milder garlic packed versions Broccoli shines as a vehicle for all that chili oil goodness

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Common Questions

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Steam or roast it as you would fresh until tender-crisp.

→ How spicy is chili crisp oil?

Chili crisp oil adds mild to moderate heat, but you can adjust the amount to your spice preference.

→ What type of rice serves best with this bowl?

Both jasmine and short-grain white or brown rice complement the flavors. Use your favorite type.

→ Are there alternative garnishes I can use?

Cilantro, toasted nuts, or a squeeze of lime make flavorful alternatives to sesame seeds and scallions.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated, making it ideal for advance lunches or dinners.