Purple Broccoli with Teriyaki Mayonnaise
This purple broccoli with teriyaki mayonnaise is a quick and delicious side dish. Purple broccoli has a striking colour when raw, but it softens to a darker green once cooked. Its naturally nutty, earthy flavour goes beautifully with the sweet-savoury notes of teriyaki sauce and the creamy richness of mayonnaise.
Ready in just 10 minutes, this dish makes a perfect side for teriyaki chicken, karaage, yakitori, grilled tofu, or other Japanese-style mains. For an extra touch, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top before serving. You can also make this recipe vegan-friendly by using plant-based mayonnaise. And if you’re short on time, simply stir a spoonful of ready-made teriyaki sauce (like Kikkoman) into the mayo for an instant shortcut.
Tips & Variations
- Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to the mayo for extra freshness.
- Use broccolini or tenderstem broccoli if purple broccoli isn’t available.
- For a spicier kick, stir a little wasabi or sriracha into the mayo.
- Double the teriyaki mayo and keep some aside as a dipping sauce for chicken or tofu.
Ingredients
Method
- In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, and ginger. Stir continuously for a few minutes until the mixture bubbles and thickens. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.
- Meanwhile, steam the purple broccoli for about 5 minutes, until tender but still with a little bite. Alternatively, blanch in boiling water for 2–3 minutes.
- Arrange the broccoli on a serving platter.
- Mix the cooled teriyaki sauce with the mayonnaise until smooth, then drizzle generously over the broccoli.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving, if desired.