Best Almond Broccoli In Sherry Sauce Recipes

Almond broccoli in sherry sauce is a delicious and healthy dish that combines the nuttiness of almonds, the crispiness of broccoli, and the tanginess of sherry. This dish is a perfect blend of taste and nutrition, making it a popular choice among health-conscious people.

The Ingredients

To prepare almond broccoli in sherry sauce, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb. broccoli florets
• 3 tbsp. olive oil
• 1/4 cup slivered almonds
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup dry sherry
• 2 tbsp. butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Broccoli Florets

Broccoli is a nutritious and delicious vegetable that is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. When choosing broccoli for this recipe, look for firm, bright green florets with no brown or yellow spots.

Slivered Almonds

Almonds are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Choose slivered almonds for this recipe as they are easier to chop and cook than whole almonds.

Garlic

Garlic is a versatile ingredient that adds flavor and aroma to dishes. When using garlic in this recipe, make sure to mince it finely to release its full flavor.

Chicken Broth

Chicken broth is a flavorful liquid made by simmering chicken bones, meat, and vegetables. It adds depth and richness to the sherry sauce and helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Dry Sherry

Dry sherry is a fortified wine that adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor to the sauce. Make sure to use dry sherry and not sweet sherry to balance the flavors of the dish.

Butter

Butter adds richness and creaminess to the sauce and helps to bind the flavors together.

The Preparation

To prepare almond broccoli in sherry sauce, follow these steps:

1. Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and crisp-tender. Drain and rinse the broccoli under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the slivered almonds and cook, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Remove the almonds from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and then add the minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and golden.
4. Add the chicken broth and dry sherry to the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the butter until it has melted and incorporated into the sauce.
6. Add the blanched broccoli florets to the skillet and toss them in the sauce until they are coated evenly.
7. Season the broccoli with salt and pepper to taste and then sprinkle the toasted slivered almonds over the top.
8. Remove the skillet from heat and serve hot.

Conclusion

Almond broccoli in sherry sauce is a delectable and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. This dish is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, making it a great addition to any diet. By following the steps in this recipe, you can create a dish that will impress your family and friends and leave them asking for more.

When it comes to healthy and delicious side dishes, almond broccoli in sherry sauce is a popular option. Not only is broccoli packed with valuable vitamins and minerals, but the addition of almond and sherry sauces adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish to something truly special. However, making this dish can be tricky, and there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that it comes out perfectly every time.

Tip 1: Choose the Right Broccoli

One of the most important factors in making almond broccoli in sherry sauce is selecting the right type of broccoli. Look for firm, bright green broccoli heads that are tightly packed and have minimal yellowing or blemishes. Avoid heads that are limp or have a strong odor, as these may be old or spoiled. Additionally, consider the size of the broccoli head - smaller heads tend to be more tender and flavorful than larger ones.

Tip 2: Blanch Your Broccoli First

To achieve the perfect texture in your almond broccoli in sherry sauce, it's important to blanch the broccoli before cooking it in the sauce. Blanching involves boiling the broccoli briefly in salted water, then immediately plunging it into ice water to halt the cooking process. This helps to preserve the bright green color and crisp texture of the broccoli, while also removing any bitterness.

How to Blanch Broccoli:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the broccoli to the boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it turns bright green and is slightly tender.
3. Using tongs, remove the broccoli from the water and immediately transfer it to a large bowl of ice water. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, or until completely cooled.
4. Drain the broccoli well and pat it dry with paper towels before adding it to the sherry sauce.

Tip 3: Use Quality Sherry

The sherry sauce is a key component of this dish, and using quality sherry can make a big difference in the flavor. Look for a dry or medium-dry sherry that has been aged for at least a few years, as these tend to have a more balanced and complex flavor profile. Avoid using cooking sherry or other low-quality options, as these may be overly salty or have an artificial taste.

Tip 4: Toast the Almonds Before Adding Them

Toasting the almonds before adding them to the almond broccoli in sherry sauce can help bring out their nutty flavor and add a nice crunch to the dish. You can toast the almonds in the oven or on the stovetop - just be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning.

How to Toast Almonds:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet.
2. Bake the almonds for 8-10 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are fragrant.
3. Alternatively, you can toast the almonds on the stovetop by heating a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the almonds and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly browned.
4. Let the almonds cool before chopping them and adding them to the sherry sauce.

Tip 5: Add the Almonds and Sauce at the Last Minute

To keep the almonds crunchy and the broccoli fresh, it's best to add the toasted almonds and sherry sauce to the dish right before serving. This will prevent the almonds from getting soggy and ensure that the broccoli retains its bright green color and crisp texture.

Conclusion

With these helpful tips in mind, you can make a delicious and healthy almond broccoli in sherry sauce that is sure to impress. Remember to choose quality ingredients, blanch the broccoli, toast the almonds, and add the sauce at the last minute, and you'll have a flavorful and satisfying dish that everyone will love.