Home-Style Dishes
Shiitake, Carrot and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Traditionally supports the lungs and throat, light and wholesome
Why people make this dish
Broccoli is at its best in autumn, when the flower stems are most nutritious, and Bro Niu rates it as one of the most all-round nourishing vegetables on the table. This shiitake, carrot and broccoli stir-fry is a clean, fragrant little dish traditionally associated with moistening the lungs and throat, and is considered well suited to those who feel weak or run-down. Simple to cook and easy to love.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- Anyone wanting a light, wholesome vegetable dish, especially in autumn.
- Traditionally considered beneficial for those who feel weak or low on energy.
- A gentle everyday dish with no special cautions.
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Broccoli (xi lan hua): nutrient-dense and traditionally said to moisten the lungs and throat and ease coughing; the flower stems are richest in autumn.
- Shiitake (hua gu): a fragrant, savory mushroom that adds depth and is traditionally valued as a nourishing food.
- Carrot (gan sun): adds color and a gentle sweetness.
Ingredients (2–3 servings)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Broccoli | 1 head | Cut into small florets |
| Carrot | 1 section | Peeled, cut into chunks |
| Flower shiitake | 4 caps | Soaked, de-stemmed, sliced |
| Minced ginger and garlic | to taste | |
| Seasoning | to taste |
Method
- Soak and wash the broccoli, cut into small florets. Peel and chunk the carrot. Soak the shiitake until soft, remove the stems, slice, and lightly season with a little oil and sugar.
- Blanch the broccoli and carrot, then lift out and set aside.
- Heat oil, sauté the minced ginger and garlic until fragrant, add the broccoli, shiitake and carrot and stir-fry. Add seasoning and half a bowl of water, and cook until the carrot and broccoli are tender. Plate and serve.
Bro Niu’s tips
Choose broccoli with tight, fine, deep-green florets. If the flowers have turned yellow, don’t buy it.
Community questions answered (selected)
- Q (meimei): Can I drink soy milk if I have throat inflammation? Bro Niu: Soy milk is fine with a throat inflammation — just don’t drink it ice-cold.
Published August 31, 2011 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 2 min read.
