Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry

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Ingredients – Additional Notes 1. **Broccoli Florets (1 lb)** – Cut into bite-sized pieces. Blanching keeps them crisp and vibrant green. 2. **Mushrooms (10 oz)** – Use white button, cremini, or shiitake mushrooms for the best flavor. Ensure they’re sliced evenly for uniform cooking. 3. **Garlic (2 cloves, minced)** – Fresh garlic works best; mince finely for even distribution. 4. **Soy Sauce (1/4 cup)** – Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness. Tamari or coconut aminos are great alternatives. 5. **Sesame Oil (2 tsp)** – Use toasted sesame oil for a more robust nutty flavor. 6. **Rice Vinegar (1 tbsp)** – Adds tangy brightness to balance the richness. Sub with apple cider vinegar if needed. 7. **Sugar (1 tsp)** – Balances the savory elements. You can use honey or brown sugar as an alternative. 8. **Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 tsp)** – Adjust based on your spice preference or substitute with a dash of sriracha for extra heat. 9. **Cornstarch (1 tbsp)** – Creates a glossy sauce. Mix well with the liquid to avoid lumps. 10. **Cooking Oil (2 tbsp)** – Use neutral oils like canola or avocado. —### Detailed Instructions 1. **Prepare the Sauce** – Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, red pepper flakes, and cornstarch in a small bowl. – Whisk thoroughly until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. The sauce should be smooth and slightly viscous. 2. **Blanch the Broccoli** – Boil water in a large pot with a pinch of salt. Add broccoli florets and blanch for 30-60 seconds. – Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to halt cooking and preserve the bright green color. Drain and set aside. 3. **Cook the Mushrooms** – Heat 1 tbsp cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. – Add mushrooms in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until they begin to brown. – Stir occasionally until mushrooms release their moisture and become tender (about 5 minutes). 4. **Add Garlic** – Push the mushrooms to the side of the skillet and add the remaining 1 tbsp oil. – Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. 5. **Stir-Fry the Broccoli** – Add the blanched broccoli to the skillet. Toss and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors and heat through. 6. **Incorporate the Sauce** – Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the vegetables. – Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the vegetables (about 1-2 minutes). Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. 7. **Serve** – Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with sesame seeds or chopped scallions if desired. – Serve hot as a side dish or over steamed rice, noodles, or quinoa for a complete meal. —### Tips & Variations 1. **Protein Add-Ons** – Add tofu, chicken, shrimp, or beef for extra protein. Stir-fry these separately and incorporate before adding the sauce. 2. **Extra Veggies** – Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots can be added for more variety and color. 3. **Gluten-Free Option** – Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. 4. **Make It Nutty** – Add roasted cashews or peanuts for crunch. Enjoy this quick, flavorful stir-fry that’s packed with nutrients and perfect for any meal!

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