• 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil (or Avocado Oil): Your cooking medium. Choose a neutral oil with a relatively high smoke point suitable for stir-frying. Olive oil adds a subtle fruitiness, while avocado oil is very neutral.
• 8 ounces Cremini Mushrooms (Baby Bella): Thickly sliced. These provide a wonderful meaty texture and deep, savory, earthy flavor that forms the backbone of the dish.
• 2 Medium Zucchini: Cut into half-moons or batons (about ½ inch thick). Zucchini offers a tender texture and absorbs the sauce beautifully, providing a fresh counterpoint to the mushrooms. Ensure they aren’t cut too thin, or they risk becoming mushy.
• 3 Cloves Garlic: Minced. An essential aromatic that provides a pungent, savory base note indispensable in most stir-fries. Fresh garlic is highly recommended over powder for the best flavor.
• 1 Tablespoon Ginger: Freshly grated or minced. Adds a warm, zesty spice that brightens the dish and complements both the mushrooms and zucchini. Like garlic, fresh ginger offers superior flavor.
• 1 Medium Yellow Onion: Thinly sliced. Provides a foundational sweetness and savory depth as it cooks down and slightly caramelizes.
• 1 Red Bell Pepper (Optional): Thinly sliced. Adds a pop of color, a touch of sweetness, and a pleasant crunch. Feel free to substitute with yellow or orange bell peppers.
• For the Stir-Fry Sauce: ¼ cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (or Tamari for Gluten-Free): The primary source of salty, umami flavor. Low-sodium allows better control over the saltiness. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
• 1 Tablespoon Rice Vinegar: Adds a gentle tang and acidity that balances the richness of the soy sauce and brightens the overall flavor profile.
• 1 Tablespoon Maple Syrup (or Honey/Agave): Provides a touch of sweetness to balance the savory and tangy elements. Adjust to your preference.
• 1 Teaspoon Toasted Sesame Oil: Adds a distinct nutty aroma and flavor crucial for an authentic stir-fry taste. A little goes a long way; it’s usually added towards the end.
• 1 Teaspoon Cornstarch (or Arrowroot Powder): Mixed with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. This is the thickening agent that gives the sauce a glossy coating consistency.
• Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For a gentle kick of heat. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
• Optional Garnishes: Toasted Sesame Seeds: For added texture and nutty flavor.
• Sliced Green Onions (Scallions): For a fresh, mild oniony bite and visual appeal.
