If you’re dreaming of a quick, vibrant, and mouthwatering meal to brighten your dinner table, this Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe will be your new best friend. It combines tender shrimp and crisp broccoli florets tossed in a flavorful, slightly sweet soy-based sauce that’s perfectly balanced with garlic, ginger, and just a hint of heat. Within about 20 minutes, you’ll have a colorful, nutritious dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple, perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a homemade Asian-inspired stir-fry.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe plays a key role in crafting the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Each component is carefully chosen to pack a punch, whether it’s the fresh shrimp for protein, the broccoli for crunch and color, or the umami-rich sauces that elevate the dish.
- Shrimp (1 lb): Fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp provide juicy, tender bites that cook quickly.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): A neutral oil for stir-frying that ensures everything cooks evenly without overpowering flavors.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Provides a vibrant green crunch and fresh taste that balances the richness of the sauce.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds aromatic depth and a bit of bite to the stir-fry.
- Fresh ginger (1 tablespoon, grated): Delivers a warm, zesty note that complements both shrimp and vegetables.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings savory umami and a salty punch to the dish.
- Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Enhances the stir-fry with a subtle sweetness and rich flavor.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): Adds gentle sweetness to balance the savory elements.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Provides a bright acidity that lifts the flavors.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Offers a nutty aroma and finishes the dish beautifully.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a touch of heat that’s completely customizable.
- Green onions (2 tablespoons, chopped): Fresh garnish that adds color and a mild onion flavor.
- Sesame seeds (1 tablespoon): Toasted seeds for a delightful crunch and nutty finish.
How to Make Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by whisking together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This sauce is where all the magic flavors combine, creating a perfectly balanced base that’ll coat the shrimp and broccoli in every bite. Setting it aside now means you can focus on cooking without interruptions.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn that gorgeous pink color and become opaque — the telltale sign they’re perfectly cooked and juicy. Once done, remove the shrimp and set them aside; this prevents overcooking while you work on the broccoli.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Broccoli
Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same skillet, ensuring it heats evenly with all the flavorful shrimp drippings from before. Toss in the broccoli florets and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender but still crisp. This step keeps the broccoli fresh and vibrant, an essential texture contrast in your Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe.
Step 4: Add Minced Garlic and Grated Ginger
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for about one minute. This releases their wonderful fragrant oils, subtly infusing the broccoli with warm, aromatic flavors that make this dish so irresistible.
Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Sauce
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then pour the prepared sauce over everything. Stir well to coat the shrimp and broccoli evenly. This coating not only adds flavor but also brings all ingredients together in a beautiful, glossy finish that’s just begging to be enjoyed.
Step 6: Finish Cooking
Let everything cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes so the sauce can thicken slightly and the dish heats through completely. This final step makes sure every bite bursts with the full spectrum of tastes you’ve carefully layered.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Top the stir-fry with chopped green onions and sesame seeds just before serving. These garnishes bring fresh, nutty notes and a delightful pop of texture that’ll make your Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe stand out.
How to Serve Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
While green onions and sesame seeds are classic finishing touches, feel free to add a squeeze of fresh lime for a citrusy zing or sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro for herbal brightness. These little touches elevate the dish and make your presentation feel special.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines beautifully alongside steamed jasmine rice or fluffy brown rice, soaking up that savory sauce perfectly. For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or a light salad featuring crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette to keep the meal balanced and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe in individual bowls topped with crunchy crushed peanuts or alongside crisp wonton chips for a fun texture twist. Another great idea is to plate it in a bento box with pickled vegetables and a small portion of noodles for an eye-catching, restaurant-style meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover stir-fry keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the best texture, store the shrimp and broccoli together but avoid overpacking the container so the sauce doesn’t make the veggies soggy.
Freezing
Although shrimp can be frozen, the broccoli may lose some of its crispness and become softer after thawing. If you plan to freeze this dish, it’s best to freeze the shrimp and sauce separately and add freshly cooked broccoli when reheating for the best quality.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently over low-medium heat in a skillet to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Adding a splash of water or broth helps loosen the sauce, while stirring frequently ensures even warming. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the dish’s delightful crisp texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that can affect the stir-fry’s texture and cooking time.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, substitute shrimp with firm tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version. The sauce remains the same, delivering fantastic flavor with vegetables and your protein of choice.
How spicy is the stir-fry with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a mild to moderate kick, but you can easily adjust the amount or omit them entirely to suit your heat preference.
What can I use if I don’t have oyster sauce?
You can replace oyster sauce with hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a bit of brown sugar for a similar sweet-savory taste, although the flavor profile will be slightly different.
Can I add other vegetables to this stir-fry?
Definitely! Bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or baby corn are wonderful additions that add color, crunch, and extra nutrients to the dish.
Final Thoughts
Once you dive into this Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe, you’ll see how effortlessly it comes together with fresh ingredients and a delicious sauce that’s sure to impress. It’s comforting yet light, packed with flavor, and a surefire way to brighten your meal rotation. Give it a try—you might just find your next weeknight favorite!
Print
Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A quick and flavorful stir-fry featuring succulent shrimp and tender-crisp broccoli, tossed in a delicious blend of soy, oyster sauce, honey, and aromatic ginger and garlic. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner that’s ready in 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Vegetables
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Sauces and Oils
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Heat the skillet: Warm 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, prepping for cooking the shrimp.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to avoid overcooking.
- Cook the broccoli: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, tossing occasionally until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
- Add aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant to enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Combine shrimp and sauce: Return the shrimp to the skillet and pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and broccoli. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Finish cooking: Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the ingredients beautifully until heated through.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the stir-fry before serving for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sliced fresh chili.
- Serve this stir-fry over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas can be added for extra color and nutrients.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari and ensure oyster sauce is gluten-free.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp to maintain their tender texture.
