Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry

This Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry is a delightful dish perfect for any night of the week. Packed with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices, this stir fry showcases the flavors of Chinese cuisine in a quick and easy way. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of vibrant broccoli and savory mushrooms makes each bite a delicious experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can have a healthy meal ready in no time.
• Full of Flavor: Fresh garlic, ginger, and chili peppers elevate the taste, providing a delicious kick.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or over rice for a complete meal, making it adaptable for any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this dish supports a balanced diet while being low in calories.
• Vegan & Gluten-Free Friendly: Easily adjust the recipe to meet dietary needs by using tamari instead of soy sauce.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry effectively, having the right tools is essential. They help streamline the cooking process and ensure even results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Small bowls
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for sautéing ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Small bowls: Ideal for mixing sauces and slurry, keeping your workspace organized.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick chopping of vegetables for efficient preparation.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons vegetable broth
• 1 1/2 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dark soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Slurry

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

For the Veggies

• 1 lb broccoli, cut to bite-size florets
• Pinch of salt
• 2 1/2 tablespoons peanut oil
• 1/2 lb button mushrooms, sliced
• 4 dried Chinese chili peppers
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 2 green onions, sliced

How to Make Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry

Step 1: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients. Stir well until everything is mixed together. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Prepare the Slurry Mixture

In another small bowl, mix together the cornstarch and water until fully combined. This will help thicken your stir fry sauce later on.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

Heat 1/4 cup water in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the broccoli and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Cover and steam for 1 minute. Uncover and stir until broccoli is al dente. Transfer it to a plate.

Step 4: Sear the Mushrooms

Wipe down the skillet with paper towels. Add 2 tablespoons peanut oil and turn to high heat. Add mushrooms and let them sear without stirring for about 1 minute. Flip them over, cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until browned.

Step 5: Add Aromatics

Shift mushrooms to one side of the skillet. On the other side, pour in remaining oil along with dried chili peppers, minced garlic, ginger, and green onions. Stir occasionally until chili peppers turn dark red before combining everything together.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Add broccoli back into the skillet along with the pre-mixed sauce. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds before adding the slurry mixture. Stir continuously until sauce thickens, then transfer everything to a serving plate. Enjoy hot as a side dish or over steamed rice!

How to Serve Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry

This Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it light or hearty, there are plenty of options to complement your meal.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled or roasted meats for a balanced plate.
• Pair with rice dishes for a complete Asian-inspired meal.

Over Steamed Rice

• Spoon the stir fry over fluffy steamed rice for a satisfying main dish.
• Choose jasmine or basmati rice for added fragrance and flavor.

In a Wrap

• Use large lettuce leaves to create refreshing wraps filled with the stir fry.
• Add some avocado or tofu for extra creaminess.

With Noodles

• Toss the stir fry with cooked noodles like soba or rice noodles for a filling meal.
• Drizzle with additional soy sauce or sesame oil for enhanced taste.

How to Perfect Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry

To achieve the perfect Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry, focus on freshness and timing. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and mushrooms enhance flavor and crunch.
• Control cooking time: Avoid overcooking vegetables; they should remain vibrant and crisp.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go, adding more soy sauce or spice according to your preference.
• High heat is essential: Cooking at high temperatures helps achieve that desirable stir-fry char.
• Prep ahead: Cut vegetables in advance for quick assembly during cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry

Pairing side dishes with your Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry can bring balance to your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Lightly fragrant rice that absorbs flavors beautifully.
2. Sesame Noodles: Chilled noodles tossed in sesame oil, perfect for contrast.
3. Crispy Tofu Bites: Add protein with crispy, seasoned tofu on the side.
4. Sweet Chili Sauce: A sweet dip that complements the savory stir fry perfectly.
5. Asian Slaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing enhances crunch.
6. Egg Fried Rice: Savory fried rice adds richness and pairs well with the stir fry’s flavors.
7. Miso Soup: A warm soup that brings umami notes to your meal combination.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a delightful contrast in textures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make simple mistakes when preparing Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry. Learn how to avoid these common pitfalls for a perfect dish every time.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the vegetables can lead to bland flavors. Take a few minutes to mix your sauce ingredients beforehand for a more flavorful stir fry.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking broccoli too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente by steaming it just until bright green and tender.
• Using the Wrong Oil: Different oils have different smoke points. Use peanut oil or another high smoke point oil for best results in stir frying.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger are key to flavor. Don’t use powdered versions; always opt for fresh aromatics for the best taste.
• Crowding the Pan: Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of stir frying. Cook in batches if necessary to keep everything evenly cooked.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry that may help you get started.

What is the best way to cut broccoli for stir fry?

Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking and easy eating.

Can I use other vegetables in my Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added color and nutrition.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry gluten-free, simply substitute soy sauce with tamari.

What is the cooking time for this stir fry?

The total cooking time is approximately 10 minutes once you have prepped all your ingredients.

Can I prepare this stir fry in advance?

Yes, you can prep your ingredients ahead of time. Just store them separately until you are ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough to suit various dietary needs. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins according to your preference. Give it a try tonight!