Get ready to discover your new favorite Asian-inspired side dish: Enoki Mushrooms with Garlic & Scallion Sauce! Each bite is packed with delicate textures and bold, savory flavors, thanks to the combination of tender enoki mushrooms and a fragrant sauce loaded with garlic and scallions. This recipe is every bit as elegant as it is simple to prepare, transforming humble ingredients into something craveworthy and truly impressive for friends, family, or a quiet “treat yourself” night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this dish is how a handful of everyday ingredients can create such magic together. Each component brings something special, so don’t be tempted to skimp! From aromatic garlic and scallion to the umami-rich sauces, you’ll find every flavor note perfectly balanced here.
- Enoki mushrooms: Their subtle, crunchy texture is the star—make sure to trim and gently separate for even cooking.
- Vegetable oil: Helps bloom the aromatics for a silky, flavorful sauce.
- Garlic (minced): Delivers bold, mouthwatering fragrance and flavor that pairs perfectly with the mushrooms.
- Scallions (finely chopped): Use both white and green parts; the whites bring depth to the sauce, while greens add a fresh finishing touch.
- Soy sauce: Essential for salty, savory umami that ties everything together.
- Oyster sauce: Adds complex, slightly sweet depth—don’t skip it for full flavor, even in vegan versions (use mushroom-based oyster sauce if needed).
- Sesame oil: Just a drizzle imparts that irresistible toasted nutty aroma.
- Sugar: Balances the saltiness and rounds out the sauce’s flavors.
- Water: Loosens the sauce and helps it drizzle evenly across the mushrooms.
- White pepper (optional): Adds a gentle warmth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional): Sprinkle on top for color and a satisfying crunch.
How to Make Enoki Mushrooms with Garlic & Scallion Sauce
Step 1: Prep the Enoki Mushrooms
Trim the root ends from your enoki mushrooms and give them a quick rinse if needed, gently patting them dry. Carefully separate them into smaller bundles or strands—this helps them cook evenly and makes for a pretty presentation. Arrange the mushrooms in a single layer on a heatproof plate or shallow dish that will fit in your steamer.
Step 2: Steam Until Just Tender
Fill your steamer pot or wok with enough water to produce plenty of steam, and once it’s bubbling away, place the mushroom dish inside. Steam for 5 to 6 minutes—just until the mushrooms turn tender but retain a little crunch. This step locks in their delicate texture! If you don’t have a steamer, a covered microwavable dish with a splash of water works in a pinch for 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Scallion Sauce
While the mushrooms are steaming, heat your vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and white parts of the scallions. Sauté gently, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes, just until fragrant and softened—careful not to let them brown. Then stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, water, and a pinch of white pepper if you like. Let the sauce bubble for about a minute to meld all those flavors together before removing it from the heat.
Step 4: Assemble and Finish
Once the enoki mushrooms are steamed, take the plate out and carefully drain off any excess liquid. While still hot, evenly pour the bubbling garlic scallion sauce all over the mushrooms, making sure every little strand soaks up that deliciousness. Finish with a generous sprinkle of the green parts of the scallions and a scattering of toasted sesame seeds if you want a nutty pop. Serve Enoki Mushrooms with Garlic & Scallion Sauce right away for the best texture and flavor!
How to Serve Enoki Mushrooms with Garlic & Scallion Sauce
Garnishes
This is one dish where the garnishes play a starring role! Don’t skip the fresh green scallion tops and toasted sesame seeds—sprinkle them on liberally for a vibrant, restaurant-worthy flourish that gives every bite freshness and color. If you like a hit of heat, a flutter of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil takes these Enoki Mushrooms with Garlic & Scallion Sauce to a new level of excitement.
Side Dishes
Enoki Mushrooms with Garlic & Scallion Sauce complement just about any Asian-inspired meal. They’re especially wonderful next to steamed jasmine rice, garlic noodles, or even grilled tofu or teriyaki chicken. The savory sauce will make anything on your plate more interesting! You can also serve them atop rice bowls or alongside crisp vegetable stir fries for a full meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Lean into the impressive visual appeal of this dish by arranging the enoki mushrooms in neat rows or bundles on a gorgeous ceramic plate. Pour the glossy sauce right down the center and sprinkle with garnishes for dramatic flair. For a fun spin, try serving small portions in individual ramekins as an appetizer, or use the mushrooms as a delicate topping for ramen bowls or cold noodle salads.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Enoki Mushrooms with Garlic & Scallion Sauce (lucky you!), store the cooled mushrooms and sauce together in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay tasty for up to 2 days, though they’re definitely best enjoyed fresh when the textures pop.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this dish. The delicate enoki mushrooms tend to lose their signature crispness and become mushy once thawed. For the best experience, make just what you’ll eat or plan on quick leftovers within a couple of days.
Reheating
To revive Enoki Mushrooms with Garlic & Scallion Sauce, gently reheat in a microwave for about 30 to 45 seconds or warm them in a small saucepan over low heat. Just be mindful not to overcook, as the mushrooms can become overly soft. A quick splash of hot water can loosen the sauce if it thickens too much in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Yes! While enoki mushrooms make this dish truly special, you can experiment with other delicate varieties like oyster or shimeji mushrooms. Just adjust the steaming time as needed, as thicker mushrooms may require a minute or two longer.
Is this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Simply swap the traditional oyster sauce for a mushroom-based or vegetarian oyster sauce. Everything else in Enoki Mushrooms with Garlic & Scallion Sauce is naturally vegan, so you can enjoy all of the savory, umami goodness without animal products.
What can I use if I don’t have a steamer?
No steamer? No problem! Place the mushrooms in a shallow, microwave-safe dish with a few tablespoons of water, cover tightly, and microwave for 2 to 3 minutes. They’ll emerge just as tender and ready for their garlic and scallion bath.
Can I make the garlic scallion sauce ahead of time?
You sure can! The sauce will hold up in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for a day or two. When ready to serve, just gently reheat it so the flavors bloom and pour it over freshly steamed mushrooms for that just-cooked magic.
Is Enoki Mushrooms with Garlic & Scallion Sauce gluten free?
It can be! Just be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce and a gluten-free version of oyster sauce, if needed. Double-check the labels and you’ll have a gluten-free delight everyone can enjoy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that feels special yet requires barely any effort, Enoki Mushrooms with Garlic & Scallion Sauce is it. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make on repeat, whether for an impromptu dinner or an elegant gathering. Give this one a try—you might just find it becomes your new signature side!
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Enoki Mushrooms with Garlic & Scallion Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Enoki mushrooms with a flavorful garlic and scallion sauce make a delicious Asian-inspired side dish or appetizer. This vegan dish is quick and easy to prepare, perfect for those who love the umami flavors of mushrooms.
Ingredients
Enoki Mushrooms:
- 2 bundles enoki mushrooms, trimmed and cleaned
Garlic & Scallion Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 scallions, finely chopped (white and green parts separated)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- Pinch of white pepper (optional)
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Enoki Mushrooms: Trim the root ends from the enoki mushrooms and separate them slightly. Steam over boiling water for 5 to 6 minutes until just tender.
- Make Garlic & Scallion Sauce: Heat vegetable oil in a saucepan. Sauté garlic and white parts of scallions until fragrant. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, water, and white pepper. Simmer for 1 minute.
- Assemble Dish: Drain mushrooms and pour hot sauce over them. Garnish with green scallions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or chili oil to the sauce.
- Pair with rice, noodles, or grilled proteins.
- If you don’t have a steamer, microwave mushrooms with water covered for 2 to 3 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 430 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
