If you’re looking for a vibrant, quick, and irresistibly tasty dish, this Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe is an absolute game changer. It brings together succulent shrimp and crisp broccoli, all coated in a savory, slightly sweet sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re rushing through a weeknight dinner or craving something wholesome and satisfying, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Plus, the medley of textures and colors on your plate will brighten up any meal time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from providing the perfect protein to adding freshness and that punch of umami in the sauce. With just a handful of essentials, you’re set to create a dish full of color, taste, and texture that feels special yet comes together effortlessly.
- Shrimp (1 lb): Peeled and deveined for the perfect bite-sized protein that cooks quickly and stays juicy.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Neutral oil ideal for stir-frying at high heat without overpowering flavors.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Crisp and fresh, providing a lovely green color and crunch.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds pungency and warmth that elevates the entire dish.
- Fresh ginger (1 tablespoon, grated): Offers a zesty, aromatic lift that balances the richness perfectly.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings salty depth and umami to the sauce base.
- Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle sweetness and complexity to the stir-fry.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): Provides a gentle sweetness that rounds out the savory elements.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds brightness and a touch of acidity to balance flavors.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): A fragrant finish that delivers a nutty aroma with every bite.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): A subtle kick of heat to enhance the overall taste without overwhelming.
- Green onions (2 tablespoons, chopped): Fresh garnish offering a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
- Sesame seeds (1 tablespoon): Adds a delicate crunch and a toasty note as garnish.
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 your flavor powerhouse, perfectly balanced with sweet, salty, and tangy notes that will coat the shrimp and broccoli beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking keeps them tender and juicy. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside, so you have a clean slate to cook your greens.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Broccoli
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil, then toss in the broccoli florets. Stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli becomes tender-crisp—this texture is key to a lively dish that’s not mushy but still cooked through.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
Now, add the minced garlic and grated ginger straight into the skillet with the broccoli. Cook them for about 1 minute until you can smell that gorgeous fragrant aroma—it’s the moment your kitchen starts smelling like something special is about to happen.
Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the shrimp to the skillet, pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and broccoli, and toss everything together to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through, making sure every bite is packed with flavor.
How to Serve Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe even more inviting, sprinkle chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top. These garnishes not only add an attractive finish but also layer on fresh, toasty flavors and just the right bit of crunch.
Side Dishes
This stir-fry pairs wonderfully with fluffy steamed rice or noodles, soaking up all the delicious sauce. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice or a simple mixed green salad can complement the dish perfectly without overshadowing the vibrant shrimp and broccoli.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish in lettuce wraps, letting the freshness of the greens contrast with the warm shrimp and broccoli. You can also plate it over a bed of quinoa or inside a warm pita to turn it into a hand-held delight. Presentation can make all the difference and turn weeknight dinner into something memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days, making it easy to enjoy this flavorful Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe again without losing quality or taste.
Freezing
Because seafood textures can suffer when frozen and thawed, freezing this stir-fry is not ideal. However, you can freeze the sauce separately without any loss of flavor and stir-fry fresh shrimp and broccoli when ready to eat.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave them briefly. Avoid overheating, as shrimp can turn rubbery. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating can help keep the sauce from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe?
Absolutely. Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can interfere with the stir-frying process.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the shrimp with firm tofu or tempeh, and swap oyster sauce for a vegetarian alternative like mushroom sauce to keep all the delicious umami flavors intact.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a subtle heat, which can be adjusted to your liking. Feel free to omit them if you prefer a milder flavor or increase slightly if you like a bit more kick.
Can I prepare parts of this Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Cooking should be done just before serving to keep the broccoli crisp and shrimp tender.
What other vegetables can I add to this recipe?
Feel free to toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or baby corn for more color and texture variety. Just be mindful of cooking times so everything stays perfectly crisp-tender.
Final Thoughts
This Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a special meal but comes together effortlessly. It’s fresh, flavorful, and versatile enough for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it—you’ll see how quickly it becomes a favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This quick and flavorful stir-fried shrimp and broccoli recipe combines tender shrimp and crisp broccoli florets in a savory sauce made with soy, oyster sauce, honey, and aromatic garlic and ginger. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an easy and nutritious meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Sauce
- 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)
Aromatics and Garnishes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
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 for later use.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Stir-fry broccoli: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp and bright green.
- Add aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the broccoli and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring to combine.
- Combine shrimp and sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and pour the prepared sauce over everything. Stir well to coat the shrimp and broccoli evenly with the sauce.
- Finish cooking: Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce has slightly thickened, enhancing the flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving hot.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase or add more red pepper flakes according to taste.
- To keep broccoli crispier, do not overcook it; tender-crisp is ideal.
- This recipe pairs well with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Frozen shrimp can be used; just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer a less salty dish.
