Discovering the Crispy Mushroom Stir-Fry Bowls
My Favorite is Crispy Mushroom Stir-Fry Bowls and I remember the first time I made these Crispy Mushroom Stir-Fry Bowls. I was searching for a recipe that would satisfy my craving for something crunchy and savory. I had some shiitake mushrooms sitting in my fridge, and the idea of turning them into a crispy delight was too tempting to resist. I gathered all the ingredients: soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and a bunch of fresh vegetables. As I started to prep, the aroma of the garlic and shallots began to fill my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.
The Art of Crispy Mushrooms
The magic truly happened when I coated the mushrooms with soy sauce and cornstarch. I remember tossing them gently, ensuring each slice was coated perfectly. The cornstarch created a thin, crispy layer when the mushrooms hit the hot oil. Watching them turn golden brown and crisp up was like a culinary dance. I fried them in batches, so each mushroom had enough room to crisp up without crowding. It was a simple process, but the result was absolutely satisfying.
Bringing It All Together
Once the mushrooms were crispy and ready, I moved on to the veggies. Sautéing the shallots and garlic in sesame oil brought out their rich flavors, and the red bell peppers added a burst of color. The kitchen was filled with the delightful sounds of sizzling vegetables. Adding the homemade vegan sauce was the final touch. The sauce, with its blend of soy, vinegar, and sweet chili, coated the vegetables and mushrooms perfectly, creating a savory, flavorful dish that smelled divine.
A Meal to Impress
When it was time to serve, I spooned the crispy mushroom stir-fry over a bed of fluffy rice. The combination of crispy mushrooms, tender veggies, and the savory sauce was a treat for the senses. I garnished each bowl with fresh green onions and a wedge of lime for a pop of freshness. As I took my first bite, I knew I had created something special. These bowls were not just a meal; they were a delicious celebration of flavors and textures that left me feeling proud and satisfied.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Crispy Mushroom Stir-Fry Bowls
- For extra crispiness, you can double-fry the mushrooms. After the first fry, let them cool for a few minutes, then fry them again briefly for an extra crunch.
- Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil for frying the mushrooms to avoid any unwanted flavors. Sesame oil is best for the veggies as it adds a distinct flavor.
- If you prefer a milder dish, you can omit the serrano pepper or use a milder chili instead. For extra heat, consider adding a bit of chili oil to the sauce.
- Feel free to customize the veggie mix based on your preference or what’s in season. Snap peas, carrots, or broccoli would be great additions.
- Jasmine or basmati rice adds an aromatic touch, but you can use any type of rice you like, including brown rice for added fiber.
Crispy Mushroom Stir-Fry Bowls
Dive into these Crispy Mushroom Stir-Fry Bowls, bursting with flavor and the best homemade vegan stir-fry sauce! Perfectly crispy mushrooms, tender veggies, and a savory sauce make this dish a must-try. Serve over rice for a delicious, filling meal that’s sure to impress. Get ready to elevate your vegan dinner game!
4
bowls10
minutes20
minutes585
kcal30
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- For the Sauce
2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
2 tablespoons vegan oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon agave nectar (or maple syrup)
- For the Mushrooms
6 ounces shiitake mushrooms, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon light soy sauce
2 tablespoons cornstarch (plus more if needed)
Neutral oil for frying
- For the Bowls
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 shallots, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 small red bell peppers (or 1 large), diced
1 serrano pepper, diced (optional)
2 cups cooked rice
Green onions and lime wedges for serving
- Alternative Ingredients:
Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free.
Vegan Oyster Sauce: Hoisin sauce or mushroom soy sauce.
Agave Nectar: Maple syrup or honey if not strictly vegan.
Shiitake Mushrooms: Cremini or button mushrooms.
Directions
- Prepare the Sauce – In a bowl, combine dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, vegan oyster sauce (or hoisin), rice vinegar, sweet chili sauce, and agave nectar. Stir well and set aside.
- Coat the Mushrooms – Place sliced shiitake mushrooms in a bowl. Drizzle with light soy sauce and toss to coat. Sprinkle cornstarch over the mushrooms and mix until evenly coated. Add more cornstarch if needed.
- Fry the Mushrooms – Heat neutral oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat. Add mushrooms in a single layer and let them cook undisturbed for about 3-5 minutes until browned on one side. Flip and brown the other side for another 3-5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Cook the Veggies – In the same pan, add sesame oil and heat over medium. Add sliced shallots and minced garlic; sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Add diced bell peppers and serrano pepper (if using). Cook for another 3-5 minutes until veggies are tender.
- Combine and Serve – Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with the veggies and let it bubble for about 2 minutes. Return the crispy mushrooms to the pan and toss to coat with the sauce. Serve over cooked rice and garnish with green onions and lime wedges.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- Nonstick Pan
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 585kcal
- Carbohydrates: 86g
- Protein: 11g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 2400mg
- Potassium: 679mg
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 19g
- Vitamin A: 15IU
- Vitamin C: 60mg
- Calcium: 6mg
- Iron: 10mg
FAQ-Crispy Mushroom Stir-Fry Bowls
Can I use a different type of mushroom?
Yes, you can substitute shiitake mushrooms with cremini or button mushrooms if preferred. Just be aware that the flavor and texture might slightly differ.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
To make the recipe gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce, and ensure the vegan oyster sauce is gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
The mushrooms can be prepped and fried ahead of time. For the best texture, it’s recommended to assemble the dish just before serving to keep the mushrooms crispy.
What can I serve with these stir-fry bowls?
Serve with a side of steamed greens like broccoli or snap peas for added nutrition. You can also pair it with a light soup or a simple salad.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover stir-fry bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat to restore some of the crispiness of the mushrooms.
