Easy Mushroom & Vietnamese Coriander Stir-fry

Ever found yourself stuck for dinner ideas with just a few simple ingredients in the fridge, like button mushrooms and Vietnamese coriander? Don’t worry! Today, Recipe Handbook will show you how to whip up a delicious and flavorful Button Mushroom and Vietnamese Coriander Stir-fry. With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a dish that’s both simple to make and incredibly satisfying with rice, perfect for busy weeknights or everyday meals.

Fresh button mushrooms and Vietnamese coriander ready for cooking

Origin and Story: Elegance in Simplicity

The Button Mushroom and Vietnamese Coriander Stir-fry isn’t a fancy dish with a long history, but its rustic charm and familiarity have made it a beloved choice in many Vietnamese households. The combination of tender, sweet button mushrooms and pungent, aromatic Vietnamese coriander creates a unique flavor profile that is both light and deeply savory.

My grandmother used to cook this dish on vegetarian days (the 1st and 15th of the lunar month). Although it was just a simple vegetarian meal, the Button Mushroom and Vietnamese Coriander Stir-fry always received praise from the whole family. She said the dish was not only easy to digest but also warming, thanks to the distinctive aroma of the Vietnamese coriander. Every time I eat this dish, I’m reminded of those loving family meals.

Ingredients and Tools: Quick and Easy Prep

To make this Button Mushroom and Vietnamese Coriander Stir-fry, you’ll only need these readily available ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• Fresh Button Mushrooms: 300g (choose firm, fresh caps, not bruised).
• Vietnamese Coriander (Rau Răm): 1 small bunch (fresh green leaves, not wilted).
• Shallots: 2-3 bulbs (Vietnamese shallots are more fragrant).
• Garlic: 2-3 cloves.
• Fresh Chili: 1-2 (depending on your spice preference).

Seasonings:

• Cooking Oil: 2-3 tbsp.
• Fish Sauce: 2 tbsp (use a good quality fish sauce for better flavor).
• Sugar: 1 tsp.
• MSG (optional): ½ tsp.
• Ground Pepper: ½ tsp.

Tools:

• Deep pan or wok.
• Knife, cutting board, colander, bowl, chopsticks, spoons…

Note: If you don’t have shallots, you can substitute with onion. Vegetarians can use soy sauce or vegetarian seasoning instead of fish sauce.

Ingredients for mushroom stir-fry including mushrooms, coriander, shallots, garlic

Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Get Cooking!

With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious Button Mushroom and Vietnamese Coriander Stir-fry:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

• Button Mushrooms: Gently rinse under running water to remove dirt. Pat dry. If large, halve or quarter them into bite-sized pieces. Avoid soaking mushrooms for too long as they absorb water and can become soggy when stir-fried.
• Vietnamese Coriander: Pick off any wilted leaves, wash thoroughly, and roughly chop into 2-3cm lengths.
• Shallots and Garlic: Peel and mince finely.
• Fresh Chili: Wash, slice or mince according to your preference.

2. Marinate the Mushrooms (Secret to flavorful mushrooms):

• Place the prepared mushrooms in a bowl. Add ½ tsp fish sauce, ½ tsp sugar, and ½ tsp ground pepper.
• Mix well and let the mushrooms marinate for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

3. Stir-fry the Mushrooms:

• Heat the cooking oil in a wok or deep pan over medium-high heat. Sauté the minced shallots and garlic until fragrant.
• Add the marinated mushrooms and stir-fry over high heat, tossing quickly and constantly to ensure they cook evenly and don’t release too much water.
• After 3-5 minutes, add the remaining fish sauce and sugar. Stir well and taste, adjusting seasoning if needed.
• Finally, add the chopped Vietnamese coriander. Stir quickly for about 15-20 seconds, then turn off the heat.

4. Finish and Serve:

• Transfer the stir-fry to a serving plate. Sprinkle with a little extra ground pepper if desired.
• This dish is best served hot with steamed white rice. You can also serve it with some chili soy sauce on the side for extra kick.

Plate of freshly cooked Button Mushroom and Vietnamese Coriander Stir-fry

Tips and Tricks: Elevate Your Dish

To make your Button Mushroom and Vietnamese Coriander Stir-fry even more appealing, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose Fresh Mushrooms: Opt for bright white, firm button mushrooms.
• Proper Prep: Don’t soak mushrooms; wipe them clean with a damp cloth or rinse quickly and pat dry.
• Stir-fry on High Heat: This helps the mushrooms retain their natural sweetness and texture.
• Add Coriander Last: Ensures the herb keeps its vibrant green color and aroma.
• Add Sesame Oil: A drizzle of sesame oil at the very end enhances the dish’s fragrance.

Creative Variations: A New Twist on a Familiar Dish

Feel free to experiment with these variations to diversify your Button Mushroom and Vietnamese Coriander Stir-fry:

• Add Protein: Incorporate sliced beef or shrimp for a heartier, richer flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or vegetarian seasoning.
• Thai-Inspired: Add lemongrass, chili, kaffir lime leaves, and a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy and spicy twist.
• Sandwich Filling: Use it as a filling for banh mi or other sandwiches for a quick breakfast or lunch.

Nutritional Value: Not Just Delicious, But Healthy Too

This Button Mushroom and Vietnamese Coriander Stir-fry is rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s an excellent choice for those watching their weight or aiming for a healthy diet.

Serving Suggestions: The Right Way to Enjoy

This dish is best enjoyed hot. Serve it alongside steamed white rice, fresh vermicelli noodles, or crusty bread. Pair it with iced tea, lemonade, or even a crisp white wine to enhance the dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do button mushrooms need to be boiled before stir-frying?
No. Button mushrooms cook quickly and are best stir-fried directly over high heat to maintain their texture.

2. Can I substitute Vietnamese coriander with another herb?
You could substitute with piper lolot leaves (lá lốt) or green onions, but the flavor profile will be different. Vietnamese coriander provides the signature taste.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion: A Dish That Scores High Marks

We hope this guide has given you a clear picture of the Button Mushroom and Vietnamese Coriander Stir-fry – a simple yet incredibly nutritious and delicious dish. Try making it today and share your results with us!