There’s something incredibly satisfying about tossing vibrant green broccoli florets and earthy mushrooms together in a hot skillet, letting each ingredient shine in its own right while still coming together in perfect harmony. Savor the vibrant flavors of this quick and easy Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner! In just 10 minutes of prep and another 10 minutes of cooking, you’ll transform simple pantry staples into a colorful, nutritious feast without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re craving a light lunch or a wholesome dinner, this recipe ticks all the boxes: low in calories (around 200 per serving), packed with vitamins, and bursting with umami goodness. Best of all, it’s beginner-friendly, requiring minimal knife skills and a single pan to handle the entire process.
When I first tried this stir fry, I was genuinely blown away by how a few staples—garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a dash of sesame oil—could elevate humble vegetables into something so crave-worthy. The contrast between the tender-crisp broccoli and the tender, slightly chewy mushrooms creates a delightful texture play that keeps every bite interesting. Plus, that quick cornstarch slurry trick helps the sauce cling to each floret and slice, making every forkful glossy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible. Trust me, once you master the timing—just long enough to keep the broccoli bright green and the mushrooms nicely browned—you’ll find yourself reaching for this stir fry again and again. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable to suit whatever you have on hand or whatever mood you’re in.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN BROCCOLI AND MUSHROOM STIR FRY
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s take a closer look at what makes this stir fry so special. Each ingredient plays a unique role, from building layers of savory flavor to providing texture and freshness. Here’s what you need:
- Broccoli florets
Adds vibrant color and a satisfying crunch; rich in vitamins C and K, these florets provide both nutrition and a sturdy base for the sauce to cling to.
- Sliced mushrooms
Offers an earthy, meaty texture that soaks up the sauce beautifully; cremini or button mushrooms work perfectly, but feel free to experiment with shiitake or portobello for a deeper flavor.
- Vegetable oil
Provides a neutral, high-heat cooking medium that helps achieve those quick, flavorful sear marks without overwhelming the ingredients.
- Garlic (minced)
Brings an irresistible aroma and sharpness that complements the mild bitterness of broccoli and the earthiness of mushrooms.
- Soy sauce
Introduces savory depth and saltiness; its rich umami factor ties all the flavors together.
- Oyster sauce
Contributes a sweet-salty profile and glossy finish, elevating this dish from simple stir-fry to something truly restaurant-worthy.
- Sesame oil
A little goes a long way—drizzled at the end, it imparts a fragrant, nutty accent that lingers on the palate.
- Cornstarch slurry
An optional thickening agent that gives the sauce a luscious, clingy consistency; mix with water before adding for smooth incorporation.
- Salt and pepper
Adjusts the seasoning to taste; a light touch helps balance the existing salty-sweet elements.
- Sesame seeds
A garnish option that adds subtle crunch and visual appeal, reinforcing that signature stir-fry vibe.
- Cooked rice or noodles
Serves as a comforting, absorbent base that soaks up every last drop of sauce, turning this dish into a complete meal.
HOW TO MAKE BROCCOLI AND MUSHROOM STIR FRY
Let’s walk through this recipe step by step. With clear instructions and a bit of heat, you’ll have a savory, satisfying stir fry that’s ready to hit your table in under 20 minutes.
1. Begin by preparing the vegetables. Trim and separate the broccoli into bite-sized florets, ensuring they’re uniform for even cooking. Clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth or paper towel, then slice them evenly so each piece can develop a beautiful brown sear.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the pan hot enough that ingredients sizzle on contact but not so hot that they burn instantly.
3. Add the minced garlic to the heated oil and sauté quickly for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant and just starts to turn golden—be careful not to let it brown too much or it may taste bitter.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, letting them brown on one side before stirring. This helps them release moisture and develop a deeper, caramelized flavor.
5. Add the broccoli florets to the pan, stirring constantly for about 3–4 minutes until they turn a bright green and reach a tender-crisp texture—still slightly firm but cooked through.
6. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring to coat the vegetables thoroughly and building that rich, savory base for the dish.
7. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch slurry to the pan, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
8. Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir fry, then season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that your soy and oyster sauces already provide plenty of saltiness.
9. Continue to stir everything together for another minute, ensuring the sauce clings to every floret and mushroom slice.
10. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired, over a bed of cooked rice or noodles for a complete, hearty meal.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BROCCOLI AND MUSHROOM STIR FRY
Once your stir fry is ready, it’s time to think about how to showcase its vibrant colors and maximize flavor. A well-presented dish not only tastes better but sets the mood for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive lunch. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game:
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice for a fragrant, fluffy bed that soaks up every drop of the glossy sauce, creating a satisfying every-bite experience.
- Toss with rice noodles or lo mein for a noodle-forward twist; simply cook the noodles according to package instructions, drain, then fold them into the stir fry in the final minute of cooking.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh green onions and a drizzle of extra sesame oil on top for an eye-catching garnish that enhances the nutty aroma and adds a pop of color.
- Pair with grilled tofu or pan-seared chicken on the side to boost protein content; marinate your protein in a little of the stir-fry sauce before cooking to tie the flavors together seamlessly.
HOW TO STORE BROCCOLI AND MUSHROOM STIR FRY
Storing your stir fry properly will help preserve its freshness, texture, and flavor for enjoying later in the week. Whether you’re meal-prepping or simply saving leftovers, follow these tips to maintain that just-cooked quality:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let the stir fry cool to room temperature before sealing, then refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. This prevents moisture buildup and keeps vegetables from becoming soggy.
- For longer-term storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Press out excess air before sealing and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce and restore moisture. Cover the pan with a lid for a minute or two to steam and warm through evenly.
- Avoid reheating in the microwave for extended periods, as intense bursts of heat can turn the broccoli limp and the mushrooms rubbery. Instead, use quick stovetop reheating to maintain that signature tender-crisp texture.
CONCLUSION
This Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry delivers on all fronts: it’s quick, healthy, and deeply flavorful. From the first sizzle of garlic in hot oil to the final drizzle of sesame oil, every step is designed to bring out the best in simple ingredients. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned home cook, you’ll appreciate how easily this dish comes together in under 20 minutes, leaving you with a satisfying meal that looks as good as it tastes. The combination of bright-green broccoli, meaty mushrooms, and a glossy, umami-packed sauce makes this stir fry a go-to weeknight staple, and its adaptability means you can switch in your favorite veggies or proteins without missing a beat. Best of all, with only 200 calories per serving, you can indulge guilt-free while still getting a solid dose of vitamins and fiber.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later—you’ll find the clear sections and step-by-step instructions make it a breeze to follow whenever you’re ready to cook. You can also find a FAQ below to answer any common questions you might have about substitutions, technique tips, and more. If you try the recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out: leave a comment with your tweaks, ask any questions if you hit a snag, or share your feedback on the flavors and textures. Happy cooking, and here’s to many tasty weeknights made easier!
Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry
Description
This colorful stir fry combines tender broccoli and earthy mushrooms in a savory sauce, making it a delightful choice for a healthy meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Begin by preparing the vegetables. Trim and separate the broccoli into florets, and clean and slice the mushrooms.
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In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
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Add the minced garlic to the heated oil and sauté quickly for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
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Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until they begin to brown and release some moisture.
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Add the broccoli florets to the pan, stirring for about 3–4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
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Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring to coat the vegetables well.
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If you desire a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch mixed with water to the pan, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
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Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir fry and add salt and pepper to taste.
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Continue to stir everything together for another minute, ensuring the vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce.
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Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired, over a bed of cooked rice or noodles.
Note
- For extra protein, add tofu, chicken, or beef slices to the stir fry.
- You can substitute tamari for soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.
- Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrients.
- Use a high-intensity burner for best results, as it helps retain the vegetables' crispness.
- Experiment with different mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, for varied flavors.
