Stir-fried Asparagus with Shiitake Mushrooms: Crunchy, Sweet, and Green!

Stir-fried asparagus is a delightful dish that showcases the vibrant green vegetable's natural sweetness and subtle earthy notes. Simple yet elegant, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a sophisticated side dish. The tender-crisp asparagus spears, expertly stir-fried, are complemented by the savory umami of shiitake mushrooms, creating a balanced and flavorful experience. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, this recipe is easily adaptable to your skill level and pantry staples. A few pantry staples and fresh ingredients are all you need to create a restaurant-quality dish in minutes.

This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, promising a satisfying culinary journey. To unlock the secrets to perfectly stir-fried asparagus and discover the simple steps involved, let's delve into the detailed, step-by-step instructions provided in this article.

Tools Needed

  • Pan
  • Basin
  • Bowl
  • Basket

Ingredients

  • Asparagus: 2 bunches
  • Shiitake mushrooms
  • Garlic: minced
  • Salt
  • Sugar: 1/2 tablespoon
  • Water
  • Oil
  • Pear seeds: 1 teaspoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Vegetables

  • Cut asparagus into 4-5cm pieces. Soak in diluted salt water to clean.
  • Soak shiitake mushrooms in water to soften.
  • Discard the hard parts of the asparagus and keep only the young parts.
  • After soaking asparagus in salt water for 5 minutes, wash and drain thoroughly.
Cut asparagus into 4-5cm pieces. Soak in diluted salt water to clean.Soak shiitake mushrooms in water to soften.Discard the hard parts of the asparagus and keep only the young parts.After soaking asparagus in salt water for 5 minutes, wash and drain thoroughly.
Prepare the Vegetables

Step 2. Blanch the Asparagus

  • Boil water, add salt and sugar. Blanch asparagus for 1 minute.
  • Immediately transfer blanched asparagus to ice water for 2 minutes to retain its green color and crispness.
  • Drain the asparagus.
Boil water, add salt and sugar. Blanch asparagus for 1 minute.Immediately transfer blanched asparagus to ice water for 2 minutes to retain its green color and crispness.Drain the asparagus.
Blanch the Asparagus

Step 3. Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic

  • Heat oil in a pan, add minced garlic and fry until golden brown.
  • Add soaked shiitake mushrooms and stir-fry.
  • Add pear seeds, sugar, and a little water to soften the mushrooms.
Heat oil in a pan, add minced garlic and fry until golden brown.Add soaked shiitake mushrooms and stir-fry.Add pear seeds, sugar, and a little water to soften the mushrooms.
Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic

Step 4. Stir-fry and Season

  • Add asparagus and stir-fry quickly for about 2 minutes.
  • Season to taste.
Add asparagus and stir-fry quickly for about 2 minutes.Season to taste.
Stir-fry and Season

Read more: Crispy Tofu with Onions: A Delicious Vietnamese Beer Snack

Tips

  • Blanching asparagus helps retain its green color and crisp texture.
  • Stir-frying quickly prevents overcooking and maintains the asparagus's crispness.
  • This recipe creates a sweet and delicious asparagus dish that is also nutritious.

Nutrition

  • Calories: approximately 200-250
  • Fat: 8-12g
  • Carbs: 20-25g
  • Protein: 5-7g

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of mushrooms instead of shiitake?

Yes! Cremini, oyster, or even button mushrooms would work well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed; some mushrooms cook faster than others.

2. How can I prevent the asparagus from becoming mushy?

Don't overcrowd the pan, use high heat, and cook for just a few minutes until tender-crisp. Avoid overcooking!

3. What can I serve this dish with?

This stir-fry is delicious as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It also pairs well with rice or noodles.


This simple yet elegant stir-fry is a testament to the beauty of fresh, seasonal ingredients. With its vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch, it's a dish you'll want to make again and again. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!