Here’s a quick and delicious Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli recipe that’s full of flavor and perfect for a healthy, weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or sesame oil)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1-inch piece of ginger (minced)
- 1/2 red bell pepper (sliced, optional)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low-sodium)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (to balance the flavors)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnish (optional):
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
- Season the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Cook the Broccoli:
- Blanch the broccoli: In a pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for 1-2 minutes until just tender and bright green. If using frozen broccoli, you can skip this step. Drain and set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Shrimp:
- Heat the pan: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil (vegetable or sesame oil works great).
- Cook the shrimp: Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
- Cook the garlic and ginger: In the same pan, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the vegetables: Add the blanched broccoli (and red bell pepper, if using) to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Combine and Add Sauce:
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, honey or sugar, and the cornstarch-water mixture. Stir to combine.
- Return shrimp to the pan: Add the cooked shrimp back into the pan with the vegetables.
- Add the sauce: Pour the sauce over the shrimp and vegetables. Stir everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens and everything is evenly coated.
6. Serve:
- Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
- Serve hot: Serve your stir-fried shrimp and broccoli over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Tips:
- For extra flavor: Add a splash of soy sauce or a dash of sriracha for more heat and flavor.
- Protein variation: You can swap shrimp for chicken, beef, or tofu if you prefer.
- Veggie options: Feel free to add other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms to the stir-fry for variety.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a little chili paste if you like it spicy!
This Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli is a simple, flavorful dish that comes together quickly, perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving something healthy. Enjoy! Let me know if you need any modifications or other recipe ideas!
