Go Back
Asian style air fryer broccoli with crispy roasted edges and a savory flavorful seasoning
Print Recipe

Asian Style Air Fryer Broccoli - Crisp, Savory, and Ready in Minutes

Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 large head broccoli (about 1 pound), cut into medium florets
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (avocado, canola, or light olive oil)
  • 2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional but recommended)
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes or 1 teaspoon chili-garlic sauce (adjust to heat preference)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of kosher salt (taste first; soy adds saltiness)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, for garnish
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer: Set to 390°F (200°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. A hot basket helps the broccoli crisp fast.
  • Prep the broccoli: Rinse, dry well, and cut into evenly sized florets. Patting dry is key to getting that char.
  • Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, garlic, ginger, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust sweetness or heat.
  • Toss with oil first: In a large bowl, toss the broccoli with neutral oil, black pepper, and a small pinch of salt. This coats the florets so they roast instead of steam.
  • Air fry, part one: Add broccoli to the basket in a single layer (a little overlap is okay). Cook for 5 minutes.
  • Sauce and shake: Pull the basket out, drizzle about half the sauce over the broccoli, and toss or shake to coat. Return to the air fryer and cook another 3 to 5 minutes, until edges are browned and crisp-tender inside.
  • Finish and garnish: Transfer to a bowl, pour over the remaining sauce, and toss. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions.
  • Serve: Enjoy hot as a side, or spoon over rice or noodles for a simple bowl.