Easy Vegan Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry
Stir fries are a quick, nutritious, and delicious meal option, perfect for busy weeknights.
This easy vegan broccoli and mushroom stir fry combines crunchy broccoli florets and savory mushrooms with a flavorful sauce to create a wholesome, plant-based dish that everyone will love.
Packed with a variety of vibrant vegetables, it offers a delightful medley of flavors and textures.
Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is loaded with vitamins, fiber, and protein to keep you energized and satisfied.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this stir fry is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re short on time.
- Healthy: Loaded with fresh, nutrient-rich vegetables and a wholesome sauce.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies, spices, or plant-based protein options.
- Vegan and gluten-free: Suitable for a variety of dietary preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- Meal prep-friendly: Can be made ahead and reheated for quick meals.
Ingredients
Vegetables:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (e.g., cremini or shiitake)
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced (optional for added color and flavor)
- 1 small carrot, julienned (optional for a touch of sweetness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (adds a rich, nutty aroma)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (for tanginess)
Other:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or neutral oil for cooking
- Cooked rice or noodles (for serving; jasmine rice or soba noodles work wonderfully)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, adds crunch and flavor)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, cornstarch, maple syrup, sesame oil, chili flakes (if using), and rice vinegar. Ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to avoid lumps. Set aside and let the flavors meld while you prepare the vegetables.
2. Cook the Vegetables
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and swirl to coat the surface evenly.
- Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
- Add the broccoli and carrots to the skillet. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the broccoli begins to soften and turn a vibrant green.
- Add the mushrooms and bell peppers to the skillet. Continue to stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until the mushrooms release their juices and the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
3. Add the Sauce
- Give the sauce a quick stir to ensure it’s well combined, then pour it into the skillet with the vegetables.
- Stir continuously for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats all the vegetables, creating a glossy finish.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of chili flakes for extra flavor.
4. Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and serve the stir fry immediately over a bed of cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation. Enjoy your wholesome, delicious meal!
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: To ensure even cooking and retain the crispness of the vegetables, cook them in batches if necessary.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding it to the stir fry and tweak the balance of sweetness, saltiness, or heat to your liking.
- Add protein: For a more filling dish, toss in some cubed tofu, tempeh, or shelled edamame. For a nutty twist, try adding roasted cashews or almonds.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic elevate the flavor profile significantly compared to dried alternatives.
Variations
- Swap vegetables: Experiment with snap peas, zucchini, baby corn, or bok choy to create a unique stir fry every time.
- Spicy kick: Mix in a teaspoon of sriracha or sambal oelek for an extra punch of heat.
- Nutty flavor: Drizzle with peanut or almond butter sauce for a creamy, nutty variation.
- Citrus zing: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 (without rice or noodles)
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 4g
- Vitamin C: Over 100% of the daily recommended intake (thanks to broccoli and bell peppers).
This easy vegan broccoli and mushroom stir fry is a perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and simplicity.
Whether you’re new to plant-based eating or a seasoned vegan, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
With its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while savoring a delicious meal.
Make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients, and enjoy the endless possibilities of this delightful stir fry. Happy cooking!