Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Rinse the broccoli thoroughly under cold water, then cut it into small, even florets. Peel the stalk and slice it thinly to use in the stir fry (optional).
2. Clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel or brush, then slice them thinly. Avoid rinsing mushrooms with water, as they absorb moisture and can become soggy.
3. Thinly slice the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger. Having all your ingredients prepped in advance makes stir frying much easier.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, sugar (if using), and red pepper flakes. Set aside. The cornstarch helps thicken the sauce and coat the vegetables evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

5. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the broccoli turns bright green and starts to soften. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set it aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms and Aromatics

6. Add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil to the same pan. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 4–5 minutes, or until they release their moisture and become golden brown.
7. Stir in the sliced onions, garlic, and grated ginger. Cook for 1–2 minutes, or until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine and Add the Sauce

8. Return the broccoli to the skillet and pour the prepared sauce over the vegetables. Toss everything together to ensure the broccoli and mushrooms are evenly coated.
9. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and clings to the vegetables.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

10. Transfer the stir fry to a serving bowl or plate. Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or crushed nuts for added texture and flavor. Serve immediately with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles.