Paleo-Friendly Creamy Spiced Broccoli Recipe

You can turn this great Paleo side dish into a complete meal by adding cooked chicken, beef, lamb, pork, or seafood during the last step.

Credit: iStockphoto.com/aluxum

Preparation time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

1 large bunch broccoli, broken into small florets

1/4 cup water

2 teaspoons Garam Masala

2 cloves fresh garlic, minced

Pinch of salt

1 teaspoon coconut oil

1/2 cup coconut milk

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, and add the broccoli and water. Bring to a boil and cover, steaming the broccoli until bright green and beginning to soften, about 5 to 7 minutes.

2. In a small bowl, mix the Garam Masala, garlic, and salt with a fork. Set aside.

3. Remove the lid from the broccoli and allow any remaining water to evaporate. When the pan is mostly dry, push the broccoli to the side and add the coconut oil. Let the oil warm up, and then pour the spices directly into the pool of oil to release their fragrance and flavor, about 20 seconds.

4. Pour the coconut milk into the pan, stirring to combine the broccoli, seasonings, and liquid. Sauté until the sauce begins to thicken and serve immediately.

Per serving: Calories 105 (From Fat 78); Fat 9g (Saturated 7g); Cholesterol 0mg; Sodium 60mg; Carbohydrate 7g; Dietary Fiber 3g; Protein 3g.

Garam Masala

Preparation time: 5 minutes

Yield: 1/3 cup

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 tablespoon ground coriander

1 tablespoon ground cardamom

1 tablespoon ground black pepper

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground cloves

1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

1. Place all the spices in a medium bowl and mix with a fork until combined.

2. Transfer the spice blend to an airtight container.

Per serving (1 teaspoon): Calories 8 (From Fat 3); Fat 0g (Saturated 0g); Cholesterol 0mg; Sodium 2mg; Carbohydrate 1g; Dietary Fiber 1g; Protein 0g.