Delicious broccoli mushroom stir fry in a vibrant bowl

Why Make This Recipe

Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry is a fantastic dish for several reasons. First, it's quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights. Second, it packs a punch of flavor and nutrition, making it a healthy choice for any meal. Broccoli and mushrooms provide essential vitamins and minerals, while the simple sauce enhances their natural taste. Whether you want a colorful side dish or a satisfying main meal served over rice, this stir fry is versatile, delicious, and satisfying.

How to Make Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry

Making Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry is straightforward. Follow these steps, and you'll have a tasty meal ready in no time.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegetable broth
1 ½ tablespoons light soy sauce
½ teaspoon dark soy sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
1 lb broccoli, cut to bite-size florets
Pinch of salt
2 ½ tablespoons peanut oil
½ lb button mushrooms, sliced
4 dried Chinese chili peppers
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon minced ginger
2 green onions, sliced

Directions

First, take a small bowl and mix together the vegetable broth, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, black pepper, and sesame oil. Set this sauce aside for later.
In another small bowl, combine the cornstarch and water. Stir well until everything is mixed, and set it aside.
Next, heat ¼ cup of water in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until the water starts to boil, then add the broccoli and sprinkle it with a pinch of salt. Cover the pan and steam the broccoli for 1 minute.
After a minute, uncover the pan and stir the broccoli, cooking it until it is al dente. This means it should still be slightly firm. Once done, transfer the broccoli to a big plate.
Now, wipe the pan clean with paper towels. Add 2 tablespoons of peanut oil to the pan and turn the heat to high. Add the sliced mushrooms and let them sear without stirring for 1 minute. After that, flip the mushrooms and give them a stir every now and then for about 2 to 3 minutes, until they are browned and have no juice left in the pan.
Push the mushrooms to one side of the pan. Pour the remaining ½ tablespoon of peanut oil on the other side. Add the dried chili peppers, minced garlic, minced ginger, and sliced green onions. Stir everything a few times until the chili peppers turn dark red.
Add the cooked broccoli back into the pan. Pour the mixed sauce over everything. Stir and cook for 30 seconds, then stir the cornstarch mixture again to make sure it's dissolved. Swirl this mixture into the pan.
Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens, and then transfer everything to a big plate. Serve the stir fry hot, either as a side dish or over steamed rice for a main meal.

How to Serve Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry

You can serve Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry in several ways. For a quick meal, serve it hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. You can also present it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. To add a touch of freshness, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top just before serving.

How to Store Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish keeps well for about 3 days. When you're ready to eat, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until it's hot. If you notice the stir fry has lost some moisture, you can add a splash of water or broth while reheating to prevent it from being too dry.

Tips to Make Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry

Prep Ahead: Cut your vegetables and measure your sauces ahead of time. This makes the cooking process smooth and fast.
Adjust Spice: If you like more heat, use more dried chili peppers or add some chili paste or sauce.
Alternative Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
Protein Boost: You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to turn this dish into a more filling meal.

Variation

You can easily vary the ingredients in this stir fry. Instead of button mushrooms, try shiitake mushrooms for a deeper flavor. You can also substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like green beans or zucchini. Adjust the sauce ingredients to fit your taste or dietary needs, such as using tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw it before cooking, and it might need a bit more time to heat through.

2. Is this dish vegan?
Yes, all the ingredients in this dish are plant-based, making it a good option for vegans.

3. Can I use another type of oil instead of peanut oil?
Yes, you can use vegetable oil or canola oil if you don't have peanut oil. However, peanut oil adds a nice flavor to the dish.

Conclusion

Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry is a simple, nutritious, and delicious dish that anyone can make. With its vibrant colors and savory flavors, it's a perfect choice for a quick meal or a healthy side dish. Whether you're a beginner in the kitchen or just looking for a great recipe, this stir fry gives you everything you need for a wholesome meal. Enjoy your cooking!