Quick Korean Microwave Broccoli Banchan 🥦✨

Looking for a quick and healthy side dish? This microwave broccoli banchan is exactly what you need. Banchan refers to Korean side dishes, and this version is one of the easiest to make. It’s fast, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. Even better, it only takes five minutes in the microwave. No stove, no fuss.

What is Banchan?

Banchan refers to the small side dishes served alongside a main meal in Korean cuisine. These dishes add variety, flavor, and balance to any meal, often featuring vegetables, pickles, or proteins seasoned with savory, tangy, or spicy sauces.

One of the best things about banchan is how well it works for meal prep. Most banchan, including this microwave broccoli banchan, can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for several days. They taste great chilled or at room temperature, making them a convenient and flavorful addition to any meal. Just prepare a batch at the start of the week, and you’ll have a quick, healthy side dish ready to go whenever you need it!

Whether you’re serving a weeknight dinner or prepping a bento lunchbox, this broccoli banchan adds freshness and color to any plate. The microwave keeps the broccoli bright and tender, while a simple sauce of soy, sesame oil, and garlic adds deep umami flavor. It’s light, but satisfying.

What type of containers should I use?

For this recipe, I’m using Anyday microwave-safe containers. Free from plastic or toxic chemicals, they’re perfect for steaming vegetables like broccoli quickly and evenly, all while locking in flavor and nutrients. Their vented lid system allows just the right amount of steam to escape, helping cook food gently without drying it out. Plus, their glass design makes them great for cooking, serving, and storing—all in one dish.

This dish is perfect if you’re new to Korean cooking or just short on time. Plus, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and meal prep-friendly. You can make it ahead, store it in the fridge, and enjoy it all week. Try this microwave broccoli banchan once, and you’ll keep coming back to it.

Quick Korean Microwave Broccoli Banchan 🥦✨

This microwave broccoli banchan is a simple Korean side dish that comes together fast. Fresh broccoli is steamed right in the microwave, then tossed with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and sesame seeds. The result? A perfectly seasoned, tender-crisp side that complements rice, noodles, or any protein.

You don’t need fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Everything is likely in your pantry already. Plus, the entire recipe takes under 10 minutes from start to finish. It’s ideal for busy nights or quick meal prep sessions. Best of all, it’s delicious warm or cold. Make a big batch, and you’ve got a healthy snack or side dish ready anytime.

Once you try this microwave broccoli banchan, you’ll see just how easy and rewarding Korean home cooking can be.

Author: Rice Zhang Cooking Method: Microwave Cuisine: Korean

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10 mins Total Time 10 mins Difficulty: Beginner Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Ingredients

Servings

• ¹⁄₄ Cup water
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• 1 Pinch Salt to taste
• 1 tsp chili sauce
• 2 Cup Broccoli

Instructions

1. Place broccoli and water in a microwave-safe bowl.
   
2. Cover loosely with a vented lid and microwave on high for 2 minutes.
   
3. Stir, then microwave for another 1 to 2 minutes as needed
4. Drain any excess water.
   
5. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, sesame seeds, and chili sauce.
   
6. Toss well to coat the broccoli evenly.
   
7. Enjoy warm or chilled
   Good for up to 4 days in the fridge

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