Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Broccoli and mushroom stir fry is a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s packed with flavor, offers a satisfying crunch from the broccoli, and has a deep umami taste from the mushrooms. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a meal that’s both light and filling. Whether you serve it as a main dish with rice or noodles or as a side to complement other Asian-inspired meals, this stir fry is a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for extra depth)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for slight sweetness)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and cut the broccoli into small florets. Slice the mushrooms and mince the garlic and ginger.
2. Blanch the Broccoli (Optional): To keep the broccoli vibrant and slightly tender, blanch it in boiling water for 1 minute, then transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well.
3. Heat the Oil: In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
4. Sauté Garlic and Ginger: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they release their moisture and start to brown.
6. Add the Broccoli: Toss in the broccoli florets and stir well to combine with the mushrooms.
7. Add the Sauce: Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), honey or brown sugar (if using), and red pepper flakes.
8. Thicken the Sauce: Mix cornstarch with water, then pour it into the pan. Stir until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the vegetables.
9. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving. Enjoy with rice or noodles.

Variations

• Protein Boost: Add tofu, shrimp, chicken, or beef for extra protein.
• More Vegetables: Try adding bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more color and crunch.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Vegan-Friendly: Omit oyster sauce or replace it with hoisin sauce or extra soy sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add Sriracha for more heat.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-3 as a main dish, 4 as a side dish
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Freezing: Not recommended as broccoli can become mushy when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but thaw it first and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture in the stir fry.

What’s the best type of mushroom to use?

Cremini, shiitake, or button mushrooms work well, but you can use any variety you like.

How do I make this dish oil-free?

Use a non-stick pan and stir-fry with vegetable broth instead of oil.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can chop the vegetables and prepare the sauce in advance for quicker cooking.

What should I serve with this stir fry?

Rice (white, brown, or cauliflower), quinoa, or noodles make great accompaniments.

How do I keep my broccoli crunchy?

Blanching and then stir-frying at high heat helps retain its crunch.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just use a large pan to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of stir-frying.

Is this stir fry low in calories?

Yes, it’s a light and healthy dish, especially if you use minimal oil and sodium.

Can I make this spicy?

Yes, add more red pepper flakes, Sriracha, or chili paste for heat.

What’s a good substitute for soy sauce?

Try tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a lower-sodium alternative.

Conclusion

Broccoli and mushroom stir fry is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a nutritious meal packed with flavor. With endless customization options, this dish can suit any dietary preference and is perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal, and enjoy its rich umami taste with a delightful crunch!

Print