Crisp-tender air fryer broccoli tossed with aromatic Sichuan peppercorns, hot chilli oil, fresh ginger, and garlic. The high heat lightly chars the florets while keeping plenty of bite, creating a quick Chinese-inspired vegetable side dish with spicy, fragrant flavour.
Place the broccoli florets in a mixing bowl. Add the hot chilli oil, ground Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, ginger, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly until the broccoli is evenly coated.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the seasoned broccoli to the air fryer basket and arrange it loosely so the hot air can circulate around the florets.
Air fry for approximately 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking. Continue cooking until the broccoli is tender with lightly browned and charred edges.
Remove the broccoli from the air fryer and serve immediately while hot.
Notes & Wine Advice
Serving Suggestions
Serve the broccoli immediately while the edges are still lightly crisp and charred. It works particularly well alongside steamed rice, noodles, tofu, chicken or other Chinese-inspired dishes. For a larger vegetable spread, explore our Vegetables recipes and Side Dish recipes.
Recipe Notes
Cut the broccoli into similarly sized florets so they cook evenly. Keep enough space between the florets for the circulating hot air to reach them. Sichuan peppercorns provide their characteristic citrusy aroma and tingling sensation, so they give a more authentic flavour than ordinary black pepper.
Variations
Add sliced spring onion after cooking for freshness or sprinkle the finished broccoli with sesame seeds for extra texture. For additional heat, add a little more chilli oil. For a milder version, reduce the chilli oil and replace part of it with a neutral vegetable oil.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Microwaving is possible but will produce softer broccoli.
Wine Advice
A dry Riesling works particularly well with the chilli, ginger and aromatic Sichuan peppercorns. Its fresh acidity provides contrast to the chilli oil without overwhelming the vegetables. A crisp Pinot Grigio is another good option when you prefer a lighter, more neutral wine. Explore suitable wines at René's Wijnbeleving.