What You’ll Love About This Mustard Broccoli Recipe
Incredible flavor in minutes – The tangy Dijon mustard sauce transforms ordinary broccoli into something extraordinary with minimal effort. You’ll be amazed at how a few simple ingredients create such a robust flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Perfect texture every time – This cooking method ensures your broccoli maintains the ideal balance between tenderness and crispness. The florets absorb the mustard sauce while keeping their satisfying bite rather than becoming mushy or undercooked.
Versatile side dish – This mustard broccoli pairs beautifully with almost any protein from grilled chicken to roasted salmon or even alongside a hearty vegetarian main. Its bold flavor complements rather than competes with your centerpiece dish.
Healthier option – You’re getting all the nutritional benefits of broccoli with a flavorful sauce that doesn’t rely on heavy cream or excessive butter. It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy vegetables that even picky eaters will appreciate.
Make-ahead friendly – You can prepare the sauce beforehand and blanch the broccoli in advance then simply combine and reheat when ready to serve. This makes weeknight dinner preparation significantly easier while maintaining the dish’s delicious qualities.
Budget-friendly – Using basic pantry staples like mustard garlic and lemon juice with affordable broccoli creates a gourmet-tasting side dish without breaking your grocery budget. It’s sophisticated flavor belies its simple ingredients list.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Transforming ordinary broccoli into a flavor-packed side dish requires just a handful of simple ingredients. The magic happens when tangy mustard meets earthy broccoli, creating a harmonious blend that elevates this humble vegetable to new heights.
For The Mustard Sauce
- 1-1½ teaspoons Dijon mustard (adjust to your taste preference)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon sherry or red wine vinegar (or juice from ½ lemon)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: splash of milk or water to thin consistency
- Optional flavor enhancers: 1 clove minced garlic, 1 teaspoon honey, salt, freshly ground black pepper, pinch of chili flakes
The foundation of this recipe is a perfectly balanced mustard sauce that brings sharpness and complexity to complement the broccoli. You can easily customize the sauce’s tanginess by adjusting the amount of Dijon mustard based on your preference. Adding a touch of honey creates a delightful sweet-savory balance that many find irresistible.
For The Broccoli
- 1½ pounds fresh broccoli (approximately one large head)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Fresh broccoli works best in this recipe, providing the perfect canvas for the mustard sauce to shine. Select broccoli with tight, dark green florets and firm stalks for optimal flavor and texture. Cutting the broccoli into uniform florets ensures even cooking, while slicing the stems prevents waste and adds a pleasant textural contrast to the dish. The olive oil helps the broccoli develop those delicious caramelized edges during roasting that make this dish so addictive.
Kitchen Tools And Equipment
Preparing our tangy mustard broccoli recipe requires just a few common kitchen tools you likely already have on hand. Let’s explore what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish with minimal fuss.
Essential Tools
- Sharp knife and cutting board – For properly trimming and cutting broccoli florets into uniform 1-1.5 inch pieces
- Mixing bowls – You’ll need at least two: one for tossing broccoli with oil and another for preparing the mustard sauce
- Measuring spoons and cups – For precise ingredient measurements
- Whisk – To properly emulsify your mustard sauce ingredients
- Baking sheet – For traditional oven roasting method
Cooking Options
Your mustard broccoli can be prepared using several different cooking methods, each requiring exact equipment:
- Air fryer – Perfect for achieving crispy edges in just 8-10 minutes at 360°F while using less oil
- Grill – Creates wonderful charred flavor when cooking blanched broccoli coated in mustard mixture for 8-10 minutes on high heat
- Food processor – Optional for creating spreads or pate versions by blending roasted mustard broccoli with other ingredients
Optional Equipment
- Silicone basting brush – Helpful for evenly coating broccoli with mustard sauce
- Tongs – Makes tossing and flipping broccoli easier, especially when grilling
- Microplane or garlic press – If adding fresh garlic to your mustard sauce
- Parchment paper – For lining your baking sheet to prevent sticking and ease cleanup
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – you don’t need fancy equipment to create restaurant-quality results. Most home cooks already own these basic tools, making mustard broccoli an accessible dish for weeknight cooking that delivers gourmet flavor without specialized gear.
How To Prepare The Broccoli
Preparing broccoli for this mustard-infused dish requires attention to detail to achieve that perfect balance of tenderness and crispness. Follow these steps to ensure your broccoli turns out vibrant and delicious every time:
- Cut the broccoli properly: Start with one large head of broccoli and cut it into bite-sized florets. For added nutrition you can slice the stalk into ½-inch pieces though remember that stalks require longer cooking time than florets.
- Heat your skillet: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it begins to shimmer. This creates the perfect foundation for sautéing.
- Sauté with aromatics: Add your prepared broccoli florets to the hot pan along with thinly sliced garlic. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the mixture uncovered for approximately 3-4 minutes stirring occasionally until the broccoli turns bright green.
- Steam to perfect tenderness: Pour about 2 tablespoons of water into the skillet and immediately cover with a lid. Allow the broccoli to steam for 2-4 minutes depending on your preferred level of doneness. The ideal texture remains slightly crisp with a vibrant green color.
- Incorporate the mustard: Remove the skillet from heat once broccoli reaches desired tenderness. Stir in a tablespoon of Dijon or whole grain mustard thoroughly coating all florets to infuse that distinctive tangy flavor throughout.
- Final seasoning touches: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over your mustard broccoli and adjust salt and pepper to taste. For additional flavor dimensions consider adding red pepper flakes for heat or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for richness.
The key to perfect mustard broccoli lies in avoiding overcooking. Properly prepared broccoli maintains its nutritional value bright color and pleasant texture while the mustard adds a sophisticated flavor profile that elevates this simple vegetable to new heights. Your perfectly sautéed mustard broccoli will stay fresh when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days making it an excellent make-ahead option for busy weeknights.
Making The Perfect Mustard Sauce
The secret to elevating your broccoli dish lies in creating a perfectly balanced mustard sauce. A well-crafted mustard sauce provides the ideal tangy complement to broccoli’s earthy flavor while adding creamy richness that transforms this humble vegetable into something extraordinary.
Master the Emulsification Process
Achieving a smooth luxurious texture requires proper emulsification technique. Start by slowly drizzling olive oil or melted butter into your mustard mixture while constantly whisking. This gradual incorporation prevents separation and creates that silky consistency restaurant chefs achieve. For an even smoother result use a blender or food processor which guarantees perfect emulsification every time.
Balance Flavors Like a Pro
Professional chefs understand that great mustard sauce requires careful flavor balancing. Begin with Dijon mustard as your base then adjust acidity using red wine vinegar or lemon juice. If your sauce tastes too sharp add a touch of honey or maple syrup to round out the bite. Taste frequently throughout the process making small adjustments until you achieve the perfect harmony between tangy spicy and slightly sweet notes.
Adjust Texture to Your Preference
Your mustard sauce can range from light and drizzleable to thick and dippable depending on your preference. Thicken your sauce with ingredients like mayonnaise hummus or heavy cream for a richer consistency. For a lighter sauce incorporate chicken broth milk or additional vinegar. The ideal texture should coat the back of a spoon without being too runny or too thick.
Layer Complex Flavors
Elevate your mustard sauce by incorporating additional flavor elements. Sauté finely minced garlic or shallots in butter before adding other ingredients for aromatic depth. Fresh herbs like parsley dill or tarragon introduce brightness and complexity. Whole grain mustard adds pleasant texture while providing visual appeal with its distinctive mustard seeds.
Temperature Considerations
Pay attention to serving temperature for optimal flavor experience. Warm mustard sauce intensifies aromatic compounds making it ideal for drizzling over hot roasted broccoli. Cold or room temperature sauces work beautifully as dips or for dressed broccoli salads. Remember that flavors tend to mellow as sauces cool so you might want to make your sauce slightly more assertive if serving it chilled.
Make-Ahead Options
Prepare your mustard sauce up to three days in advance storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This make-ahead capability aligns perfectly with the convenience factor of our mustard broccoli recipe. Allow refrigerated sauce to come to room temperature before serving or gently reheat if using as a warm dressing.
How To Cook Mustard Broccoli
Transform ordinary broccoli into a flavor-packed side dish with these simple cooking methods. Whether you prefer the quick stovetop approach or the caramelized goodness of roasted broccoli, these techniques will elevate your vegetable game in minutes.
Stovetop Method
Start by boiling or steaming your broccoli florets for about 5 minutes until they’re partially cooked but still vibrant green. Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add minced garlic to the hot oil and cook until fragrant, then whisk in Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, a touch of honey, salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili flakes to create your mustard sauce.
Toss the par-cooked broccoli directly into the skillet with your mustard mixture. Sauté everything together for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat every crevice of the florets. For perfectly tender broccoli that maintains some bite, add a splash of water to the pan, cover quickly with a lid, and steam for an additional 2 minutes. This technique creates broccoli with a satisfying texture—tender yet crisp with a tangy mustard coating that clings beautifully to each piece.
Roasting Method
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) to achieve the perfect caramelization. Cut your broccoli into evenly sized florets and arrange them cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle generously with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roasting with the cut sides down prevents flipping and helps develop those desirable crispy edges.
Roast the broccoli for 15 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and slightly crisp while the stalks remain tender. Meanwhile, prepare your mustard sauce by whisking together Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, salt, pepper, chili flakes, and a stream of olive oil until well combined. When the broccoli emerges from the oven, immediately spoon the mustard sauce over the hot florets, allowing the heat to meld the flavors together.
For an extra flavor dimension, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top, or create a luxurious mustard butter by combining softened butter with Dijon mustard and a splash of vinegar. The heat from the freshly roasted broccoli will melt this compound butter into a glossy, flavorful coating that elevates the humble vegetable to restaurant-quality status.
Serving Suggestions
Mustard broccoli shines as a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with many main courses. You can serve this flavorful vegetable alongside grilled chicken breast or roasted salmon for a protein-rich meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Hearty meat dishes like steak or pork chops benefit from the bright, tangy notes of the mustard sauce that cuts through richness.
For a complete vegetarian meal, pair your mustard broccoli with quinoa pilaf or brown rice to absorb the delicious sauce. Roasted potatoes make an excellent companion as well, creating a comforting plate with complementary textures and flavors. Creamy polenta serves as another fantastic base that works wonderfully with the bold mustard flavor profile.
Try serving mustard broccoli as part of a Buddha bowl with your favorite grains, proteins, and additional roasted vegetables for a balanced lunch option. Cold mustard broccoli works surprisingly well in grain salads—particularly farro or barley salads that can stand up to the robust flavors.
Transform your mustard broccoli into an elegant appetizer by serving it on crostini with a smear of ricotta cheese. Many home cooks have found this to be a crowd-pleasing starter at dinner parties. The honey mustard broccoli salad variation makes a perfect addition to summer picnics and potlucks, especially when paired with grilled fare.
For family-friendly serving options, consider these popular pairings:
- Alongside oven-baked chicken tenders for a kid-approved dinner
- With pasta and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a simple weeknight meal
- As a side to sandwiches or wraps for a complete lunch
- Incorporated into a grain bowl with hard-boiled eggs for added protein
The roasted broccoli with garlic mustard sauce version works exceptionally well with Mediterranean-inspired meals featuring lamb or fish. Its tangy profile with lemon and chili flakes brightens heavier proteins and adds complexity to simple dishes.
For an impressive dinner party spread, arrange your mustard broccoli on a large serving platter and garnish with toasted nuts, extra herbs, or a sprinkle of good quality sea salt. The vibrant green color makes for a beautiful presentation against white serveware.
Remember that temperature matters—the honey mustard broccoli salad is best served cold or at room temperature, while the roasted versions with mustard sauce are most appealing when served hot from the oven or warm after being freshly tossed in the dressing.
Storage And Reheating Tips
Proper storage and reheating techniques are essential for maintaining the delicious flavor and texture of your mustard broccoli. Follow these expert tips to keep your dish fresh and tasty even days after preparation.
Refrigerating Fresh Ingredients
Store unused fresh broccoli in your refrigerator by treating it like a small bouquet. Place the cut ends in a jar with an inch of water and loosely wrap with plastic wrap or a plastic bag. Keep this arrangement on a refrigerator shelf rather than in the crisper drawer to ensure proper airflow around the vegetable.
You can also store whole or cut broccoli in a semi-perforated plastic bag in your crisper drawer. Add paper towels inside the bag to absorb excess moisture and delay spoilage. Never wash broccoli before storing it—only rinse immediately before use to prevent mold formation.
Keep your broccoli away from ethylene-producing fruits like apples and bananas which can cause premature yellowing and rotting. Fresh broccoli with vibrant green color and firm stalks will naturally have a longer shelf life than older specimens.
Storing Leftover Mustard Broccoli
Transfer any cooked mustard broccoli to an airtight container within two hours of cooking. This quick action preserves flavor and prevents bacterial growth that can lead to foodborne illness. Properly stored mustard broccoli remains delicious in the refrigerator for up to three days.
The mustard sauce may separate slightly during storage. This natural occurrence doesn’t affect flavor but may require a quick stir before reheating. Label your container with the date to track freshness and maintain food safety standards in your kitchen.
Reheating For Best Results
Gentle reheating methods preserve the texture and flavor of mustard broccoli. Steam your leftovers by placing them in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water and covering with a microwave-safe lid or plate. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Stovetop reheating works wonderfully for maintaining the vibrant flavors of mustard broccoli. Add a teaspoon of olive oil to a skillet over medium heat and quickly warm the broccoli just until heated through. Avoid lengthy cooking times that can result in mushy texture and diminished flavor.
The oven provides another excellent reheating option. Spread your mustard broccoli on a baking sheet and warm at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. This method helps maintain some crispness while thoroughly heating the dish. A quick sprinkle of fresh herbs or an extra drizzle of sauce can refresh the flavors after reheating.
Recipe Variations
Mustard broccoli offers incredible versatility through different flavor profiles that can transform this humble vegetable into various culinary experiences. Try these delicious variations to keep your broccoli dishes exciting and fresh.
Spicy Mustard Broccoli
This zesty version delivers a bold punch of flavor through a tangy vinegar-mustard glaze. Start by roasting broccoli florets until they reach that perfect crisp-tender texture with caramelized edges. While the broccoli roasts prepare a vibrant sauce by combining melted butter with red wine or sherry vinegar and Dijon mustard. Toss the roasted broccoli in this robust mixture which beautifully complements the natural earthiness of broccoli while adding a sharp spicy kick. The contrast between the slightly bitter broccoli and the zingy mustard creates a sophisticated side dish that pairs wonderfully with milder main courses.
Honey Mustard Broccoli
Sweet meets tangy in this crowd-pleasing variation that often takes salad form. Create a balanced honey mustard dressing by whisking together Dijon mustard honey olive oil apple cider vinegar and Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for creaminess. This versatile dressing works with both raw broccoli for maximum crunch or lightly steamed florets for a more tender bite. Enhance your honey mustard broccoli by adding complementary ingredients like:
- Shredded carrots for color and sweetness
- Roasted chickpeas for protein
- Colorful bell peppers for vibrancy
- Sharp cheddar cheese for richness
- Toasted almonds for crunch
- Crispy bacon bits for savory depth
- Dried cranberries for chewy sweetness
The multi-dimensional flavors in honey mustard broccoli make it perfect for potlucks and meal prep since the flavors actually improve after sitting together for a few hours.
Creamy Dijon Mustard Broccoli
Indulgence meets nutrition in this rich variation that coats broccoli in a velvety mustard sauce. Combine Dijon mustard with Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to create a luscious sauce with the perfect balance of tanginess and creaminess. Brighten the sauce with fresh lemon juice or a splash of vinegar and enhance the depth with minced garlic. This luxurious coating works beautifully with steamed broccoli where the sauce can nestle into all the floret nooks or with roasted broccoli where the sauce creates a delicious contrast to the caramelized edges.
| Variation | Mustard Type | Key Ingredients | Preparation Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spicy Mustard | Dijon/Grainy | Butter, red wine or sherry vinegar | Roasting + Tossing |
| Honey Mustard | Dijon | Honey, olive oil, Greek yogurt, mixed vegetables | Salad with raw or roasted broccoli |
| Creamy Dijon | Dijon | Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic | Steamed or roasted with creamy sauce |
The adaptability of these variations allows you to transform ordinary broccoli into restaurant-worthy sides that complement virtually any main dish while still keeping preparation simple and straightforward.
Nutritional Benefits Of Mustard Broccoli
Mustard broccoli isn’t just a flavorful side dish—it’s a nutritional powerhouse that combines two health-promoting ingredients to create something even greater than the sum of its parts. The science behind this winning combination reveals why this simple pairing deserves a place in your regular meal rotation.
The Sulforaphane Advantage
Broccoli contains glucoraphanin which converts to sulforaphane a potent antioxidant linked to multiple health benefits. This powerful compound supports cancer prevention detoxification and liver health. Fresh broccoli naturally contains the enzyme myrosinase needed to create sulforaphane but unfortunately cooking destroys this crucial enzyme.
This is where mustard enters as the hero of our nutritional story. Mustard seeds and powder contain abundant myrosinase that compensates for what’s lost during broccoli cooking. Research demonstrates that adding mustard to cooked broccoli increases sulforaphane bioavailability by more than four times compared to eating broccoli alone.
Cancer-Fighting Properties
The enhanced sulforaphane availability in mustard broccoli provides important cancer-fighting benefits. Sulforaphane helps your body detoxify harmful compounds while exhibiting direct anticarcinogenic effects. By combining mustard with broccoli you maximize these protective properties making each serving work harder for your health.
Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
Inflammation underlies many chronic health conditions and mustard broccoli offers powerful anti-inflammatory support. The increased sulforaphane absorption achieved through this combination helps reduce inflammatory markers throughout your body. Regular consumption may contribute to improved joint comfort and overall inflammatory balance.
Detoxification Support
Your liver works constantly to filter toxins and mustard broccoli provides valuable support for these detoxification pathways. Sulforaphane activates phase 2 detoxification enzymes that help neutralize harmful compounds before they can damage cells. The mustard-broccoli pairing optimizes this process ensuring your detox systems function efficiently.
Additional Mineral Benefits
Beyond the sulforaphane boost mustard seeds contribute their own impressive nutritional profile. They provide essential minerals including:
| Mineral | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Copper | Supports energy production and iron metabolism |
| Calcium | Essential for bone health and muscle function |
| Iron | Crucial for oxygen transport and energy |
| Magnesium | Supports muscle and nerve function |
| Potassium | Helps maintain healthy blood pressure |
| Zinc | Important for immune function and wound healing |
| Selenium | Powerful antioxidant that supports thyroid health |
These minerals complement broccoli’s already impressive nutrient content creating a truly synergistic food combination.
Practical Nutrition Tips
To maximize the nutritional benefits of mustard broccoli steam your broccoli for just 2-4 minutes. This light cooking method preserves some natural enzyme activity while still allowing the mustard’s myrosinase to work its magic. Add a small amount of powdered mustard or mustard seeds immediately after cooking while the broccoli is still warm.
The mustard flavor actually enhances the slightly bitter notes of broccoli creating a more complex and satisfying taste profile. This makes mustard broccoli not just nutritionally superior but also more appealing to eat regularly—even for those who might typically avoid cruciferous vegetables.
The Perfect Pairings For Mustard Broccoli
Mustard broccoli creates a harmonious marriage of flavors that can elevate your entire meal when paired thoughtfully with complementary dishes. Your culinary experience reaches new heights when you match this versatile side with the right companions.
Protein Partners
Grilled meats develop a beautiful relationship with mustard broccoli thanks to their contrasting yet complementary flavors. Juicy steak benefits from the tangy mustard notes that cut through its richness while adding depth to each bite. Roasted chicken absorbs the mustard undertones creating a cohesive flavor profile across your plate.
Fish dishes particularly salmon or cod offer a delicate canvas that allows the bold mustard broccoli flavors to shine without overwhelming. The natural sweetness of seafood balances perfectly against the slight pungency of mustard creating a sophisticated taste combination.
Pork chops or tenderloin make exceptional partners for mustard broccoli since pork’s mild flavor welcomes the assertive mustard component. This pairing creates a restaurant-quality meal that feels special yet requires minimal effort.
Vegetarian Combinations
Grain bowls transform into complete meals when topped with mustard broccoli adding vital nutrients and complex flavors. Quinoa pilaf absorbs the mustard sauce beautifully while contributing its own nutty character to the ensemble.
Roasted potatoes served alongside mustard broccoli create a vegetable medley that satisfies with contrasting textures and complementary flavors. The starchy comfort of potatoes balances the bold mustard notes for a well-rounded side dish combination.
Bean-based dishes like chickpea stews or lentil loaves find their perfect accent in mustard broccoli which provides freshness and acidity to these protein-rich vegetarian options. Their earthy flavors work harmoniously with the tangy mustard profile.
Texture and Flavor Contrasts
Crunchy elements enhance mustard broccoli’s appeal through textural diversity on your plate. Adding toasted nuts like almonds or pine nuts introduces delightful crunch that complements the tender broccoli florets.
Creamy components such as mild cheeses or yogurt-based sauces create magnificent texture contrasts when served with mustard broccoli. Brick cheese or cheddar crumbled over the top adds richness that balances the tanginess of the mustard.
Acidic accompaniments like lemon-dressed greens or pickled vegetables amplify the brightness of mustard broccoli while providing palate-cleansing freshness. These pairings prevent flavor fatigue and keep each bite interesting.
Wine and Beverage Matches
Crisp white wines particularly Sauvignon Blanc or unoaked Chardonnay complement the tangy profile of mustard broccoli without overwhelming its nuanced flavors. Their bright acidity mirrors the vinegar notes in many mustard broccoli preparations.
Light-bodied red wines such as Pinot Noir offer surprising versatility when paired with mustard broccoli especially when the dish features honey or other slightly sweet elements. The wine’s subtle earthiness enhances the broccoli’s natural flavors.
Create beers particularly wheat beers or session IPAs provide refreshing counterpoints to mustard broccoli’s intensity. Their effervescence cleanses the palate while their own complex notes create interesting flavor dialogues.
Make-Ahead Pairing Strategies
Meal prep becomes more efficient when you plan complementary dishes that share similar shelf life with mustard broccoli. Roasted meats that can be reheated alongside your broccoli streamline weeknight dinners without sacrificing flavor.
Staggered preparation helps optimize freshness when planning a full menu featuring mustard broccoli. Prepare components that improve with resting time such as marinated proteins or grain salads a day ahead while finishing the mustard broccoli just before serving.
Serving temperature considerations ensure your entire meal comes together harmoniously. Most mustard broccoli preparations taste excellent at room temperature making them flexible partners for hot entrées that demand immediate attention when serving.
Why This Mustard Broccoli Recipe Works Every Time
Mustard broccoli isn’t just another side dish—it’s a game-changer for your weekly menu. The tangy mustard sauce transforms ordinary broccoli into something truly crave-worthy while keeping preparation remarkably simple.
You’ll love how this versatile dish fits seamlessly into nearly any meal plan whether you’re pairing it with proteins or creating a vegetarian feast. The perfect balance of tenderness and crispness ensures everyone at your table will ask for seconds.
Best of all you’re getting maximum nutrition with minimum effort. The natural compounds in broccoli work synergistically with mustard to create a powerhouse side dish that’s as good for your body as it is delicious on your plate.
Give this mustard broccoli recipe a try tonight and discover your new go-to side dish that delivers restaurant-quality results right from your kitchen.
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