Sarah Mitchell
Sometimes, the simplest ingredients come together to create the most delightful meals, and this broccoli and mushroom stir fry is a perfect example. Packed with vibrant, crunchy broccoli, tender mushrooms, and a savory sauce that ties it all together, this dish is a healthy, quick, and satisfying option for weeknights. It’s perfect as a side dish or even a light main course when paired with rice or noodles. Let’s dive into how you can make this restaurant-quality stir fry at home!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- 2 cups broccoli florets – Fresh broccoli gives this stir fry a crisp texture and vibrant color. You can also use frozen broccoli if needed; just thaw and pat it dry first.
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms – Baby Bella or white button mushrooms work beautifully here. Their earthy flavor balances the sweetness of the sauce. A quick tip: clean mushrooms with a damp cloth instead of rinsing them to avoid sogginess.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Used for sautéing and bringing out the flavors of the vegetables. Feel free to swap it with sesame oil for extra aroma.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – Garlic infuses the dish with a wonderful fragrance. Freshly minced garlic works best!
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – This forms the base of the sauce, adding savory depth to the dish. Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce – Adds richness and a subtle sweetness. For a vegan option, you can replace it with mushroom sauce.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water – Helps thicken the sauce, giving the stir fry a glossy, professional finish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – A touch of spice to enhance all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional) – For a little heat, if you enjoy spicy dishes.
How to Make Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry
Follow these steps to whip up this quick and easy stir fry:
Step 1: Prep your ingredients
Wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Slice the mushrooms evenly for consistent cooking. Mince the garlic. Mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until they’re bright green and slightly tender. Remove the broccoli and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the mushrooms and garlic
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, and toss in the mushrooms. Cook for 4–5 minutes until they’re golden brown and tender. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, letting it release its aroma.
Step 4: Make the sauce
Lower the heat to medium and pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Stir well to combine. Add the cornstarch mixture and cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the mushrooms.
Step 5: Combine and finish
Add the broccoli back into the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the broccoli and mushrooms are well-coated with the sauce. Sprinkle black pepper and chili flakes (if using) over the top. Stir for 1 more minute and then remove from heat.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Serve your broccoli and mushroom stir fry immediately over rice, noodles, or enjoy it as is.
Equipment Needed
- A large skillet or wok for stir-frying.
- A sharp knife for chopping vegetables.
- Cutting board for prepping ingredients.
- A small bowl for mixing the cornstarch slurry.
- Spatula or wooden spoon for stirring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables for this stir fry?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the vegetables first and pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess water in the stir fry.
What mushrooms work best for this recipe?
Baby Bella and white button mushrooms are the most common choices, but shiitake mushrooms can add a richer, meaty flavor if you prefer.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Swap regular soy sauce for gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos, and make sure your oyster sauce substitute is gluten-free as well.
Can I add other vegetables to this stir fry?
Yes! Bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or zucchini would pair wonderfully with the broccoli and mushrooms.
What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
For a vegan-friendly alternative, mushroom stir fry sauce or hoisin sauce will work just fine.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Is this dish spicy?
Not unless you add the chili flakes! It’s easy to adjust the spice level to your preference.
I hope you loved this simple and flavorful broccoli and mushroom stir fry recipe as much as I do. It’s a healthy, quick option for any meal, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to share this recipe on Facebook using the buttons below or save it on Pinterest to make it later. Happy cooking!
