There’s something incredibly satisfying about a vibrant, quick, and flavorful stir fry, and this Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry Recipe delivers just that in every bite. Imagine tender broccoli florets and meaty mushrooms tossed in a savory, slightly tangy sauce that perfectly balances aromatic garlic, sesame oil, and just the right amount of spice. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome weeknight meal or a colorful side dish, this recipe brings together simple ingredients into a dish bursting with texture and deep flavor that’ll have you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a distinct role in building the texture, aroma, and rich flavors of your stir fry. Fresh broccoli provides a satisfying crunch, while mushrooms add umami and earthiness. The sauce components create that signature glossy, savory coating that makes every forkful irresistible.
- 1 lb (450 g) broccoli florets: Use bite-sized pieces for even cooking and delightful crispness.
- 10 oz (280 g) sliced mushrooms: White button or cremini mushrooms add a meaty texture and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuse your stir fry with a fragrant, aromatic touch.
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce: Acts as the savory heart of the sauce, rich and salty.
- 2 tsp sesame oil: Brings a subtle nutty depth that’s essential in any great stir fry.
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar: Offers a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness.
- 1 tsp sugar: Balances and rounds out the sauce’s flavors with a hint of sweetness.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle, warming kick if you like a bit of heat.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce, giving it a luscious, clingy finish.
- 2 tbsp cooking oil: Choose a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil to stir fry without overpowering flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust seasoning as you cook for a personalized flavor.
How to Make Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by washing and cutting your broccoli into uniform, bite-sized florets to ensure they cook evenly. Clean and slice your mushrooms while mincing the garlic finely. Having everything ready and within reach makes the actual stir frying smooth and quick, which is key to preserving the vibrant colors and crisp textures.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, red pepper flakes, and cornstarch until smooth. This sauce blends salty, sweet, tangy, and spicy notes that marry perfectly with the vegetables. Setting this aside allows the flavors to meld before hitting the hot pan.
Step 3: Stir Fry the Vegetables
Heat your cooking oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic first and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt. Toss in the broccoli florets and stir fry for 4 to 5 minutes until they’re bright green and just tender. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and continue cooking until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 4: Combine and Thicken
Give the sauce a quick stir to reincorporate the cornstarch and pour it over the vegetables. Stir continuously as the sauce thickens and evenly coats the broccoli and mushrooms, which should take 1 to 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce’s glossy finish signals that this delicious Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry Recipe is ready to be enjoyed.
How to Serve Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate this dish from simple to spectacular. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for added crunch, or a handful of chopped green onions to lend a bright, slightly pungent note. Even a drizzle of extra sesame oil right before serving makes the aroma pop beautifully.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs wonderfully with fluffy steamed rice or fragrant jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a low-carb option, serve it alongside cauliflower rice or over quinoa for a protein boost. It also complements grilled tofu or your favorite protein for a complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For something special, try serving the broccoli and mushroom stir fry over noodles tossed in a light sesame sauce or stuff it into lettuce wraps for a fun, hands-on meal. You could even use it as a savory filling inside baked sweet potatoes—that contrast of textures and flavors is unforgettable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which might be rare because it’s so good), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The veggies will maintain their texture if refrigerated promptly.
Freezing
While the fresh crunch might lessen upon defrosting, you can freeze the stir fry for up to 2 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. When ready, defrost overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water to help loosen the sauce if it thickened too much in the fridge. Avoid microwaving for best texture, as it can make the broccoli soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and crunch. Just adjust the stir fry time so all veggies are cooked evenly.
Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
It’s naturally vegan if you use gluten-free soy sauce. Double-check labels to ensure the soy sauce and rice vinegar meet your dietary needs.
Can I make this recipe spicier or milder?
Yes, red pepper flakes are optional, so you can leave them out for a milder dish or add more if you crave heat. Balancing flavors to suit your palate is always encouraged.
What’s the best oil to use for stir frying?
Neutral oils with high smoke points like canola, vegetable, or grapeseed oil are ideal. Sesame oil is used mostly for flavor, so add it near the end or in the sauce rather than for cooking at high heat.
How can I make this dish more protein-rich?
Add tofu, tempeh, or sliced chicken breast cooked separately and mixed in at the end. That way you can keep the vegetables crisp while boosting nutrition.
Final Thoughts
Trying out this Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry Recipe is like welcoming a burst of fresh, savory goodness into your kitchen—a quick and delicious way to transform simple ingredients into a meal that feels special every time. It’s fantastic for busy nights or when you want something healthy without sacrificing flavor. Trust me, once you make it, it’ll become one of those dishes you turn to again and again.
Print
Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious dish combining crisp broccoli florets and tender mushrooms tossed in a savory, slightly tangy sauce with a hint of spice. Perfect as a vegetarian main or side, it features a harmonious blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar, delivering a delicious Asian-inspired meal in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 lb (450 g) broccoli florets – Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking
- 10 oz (280 g) sliced mushrooms – White button or cremini mushrooms work best
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For a fragrant, aromatic touch
Sauce
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce – The base for the savory sauce
- 2 tsp sesame oil – Adds a nutty depth of flavor
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar – For a tangy contrast
- 1 tsp sugar – Balances the flavors
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes – Optional, for a spicy kick
- 1 tbsp cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce
Cooking Oils & Seasoning
- 2 tbsp cooking oil – Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust to your preference
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, red pepper flakes, and cornstarch until smooth and well combined. Set this mixture aside; it will be used to flavor and thicken the stir fry.
- Heat the Oil: Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the cooking oil. Allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking to ensure proper sautéing of the vegetables.
- Sauté Garlic and Mushrooms: Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and turn golden brown.
- Add Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring to combine with the mushrooms. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
- Pour in the Sauce: Give the prepared sauce a quick stir and pour it over the vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to coat all the veggies evenly.
- Thicken the Sauce: Continue to cook and stir the mixture for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, coating the broccoli and mushrooms nicely.
- Season and Serve: Taste the stir fry and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and serve immediately, either on its own or alongside steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- For a vegan version, ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free and vegan certified if needed.
- Red pepper flakes can be omitted or adjusted based on spice preference.
- Add toasted sesame seeds on top for extra texture and flavor.
- Use fresh broccoli and mushrooms for the best taste and texture.
- To make the sauce thicker or thinner, adjust the cornstarch amount or simmer longer/shorter accordingly.
