If you’re looking for a delightful weeknight dinner that is both quick and packed with flavor, this Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe is an absolute winner. It brings together succulent shrimp, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious sauce that perfectly balances savory, sweet, and tangy notes. Easy to whip up in just 20 minutes, this dish makes healthy eating exciting without any fuss. The combination of fresh ingredients and the bold sauce makes every bite memorable, and it’s sure to become your go-to stir-fry when you want something nourishing and delicious in a flash.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe plays an essential role in creating a harmony of texture and flavor. From the crunchy broccoli and tender shrimp to the punchy garlic and ginger, plus the rich sauces that tie everything together, each element contributes to making this dish special.
- Shrimp: Using peeled and deveined shrimp ensures quick cooking and easy eating.
- Vegetable oil: A neutral oil perfect for stir-frying at high heat without overpowering flavors.
- Broccoli florets: Choose fresh, vibrant florets for a crunchy, colorful bite.
- Garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant pungency that elevates the whole dish.
- Fresh ginger, grated: Brings a warm zest that balances the sauce’s sweetness.
- Soy sauce: The salty backbone adding depth and umami.
- Oyster sauce: Offers a rich, slightly sweet and savory complexity.
- Honey: Adds a subtle sweetness to marry the savory flavors.
- Rice vinegar: Introduces a gentle tang that lifts the sauce.
- Sesame oil: Just a splash gives an irresistible nutty aroma.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A pinch for those who like a little heat and excitement.
- Green onions: Freshly chopped for a crisp, oniony garnish.
- Sesame seeds: Toasted for a nutty crunch on top.
How to Make Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by combining your soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and optional red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Whisk them together until the honey dissolves completely, creating a well-balanced sauce that will coat every piece beautifully. Setting this aside allows you to have everything ready for a quick finish once the shrimp and broccoli are cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn a lovely pink and become opaque. Don’t overcrowd the pan—this ensures they sear nicely rather than steam. Once cooked, remove the shrimp and set them aside so you can focus on the broccoli next.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Broccoli
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in your broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal here is to get the broccoli tender-crisp—bright green with just enough bite that it still feels fresh and lively. This quick cooking helps retain its nutrients and crunchy texture, which contrasts wonderfully with the tender shrimp.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Ginger
Once the broccoli is almost done, stir in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Cook this fragrant duo for about a minute until their aromas fill the pan. These ingredients add layers of complexity and freshness, taking the simple stir-fry to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Sauce
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Pour the prepared sauce over everything and toss gently to coat the shrimp and broccoli evenly. Allow it to cook together for 2-3 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and clings to each morsel, turning the dish into a glossy, irresistible stir-fry.
How to Serve Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Finish your dish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. These simple garnishes add a pleasant crunch and fresh, green contrast that brightens up the whole plate. They also bring a bit of visual appeal that makes the dish irresistible even before the first bite.
Side Dishes
This stir-fried wonder shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a steaming bowl of jasmine rice or fluffy brown rice to soak up the luscious sauce. For a lighter option, serve it alongside cauliflower rice or even a fresh cucumber salad to enhance the meal’s freshness and texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe in a minimalist style atop a bed of soba noodles or as a filling inside lettuce wraps for a fun, finger-food experience. You can also place it in colorful bowls or bamboo steamers to bring an authentic, cozy touch to your dinner table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover stir-fry stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Be sure to cool it down before refrigerating to preserve the texture and freshness of the shrimp and broccoli.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, shrimp can lose some of its tenderness, and broccoli may become a bit mushy after thawing. If you freeze leftovers, do so in small portions and use within a month for best results.
Reheating
For reheating, gently warm your leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to avoid making the shrimp rubbery. Stir occasionally, just until heated through. Avoid microwaving directly as it can cook unevenly and affect texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture and ensure a good sear.
What’s the best way to keep broccoli crisp when stir-frying?
Use high heat and don’t overcook. Stir-fry the broccoli for just a few minutes so it stays bright green and tender-crisp.
Can I substitute oyster sauce in this recipe?
If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace oyster sauce with mushroom stir-fry sauce or hoisin sauce for a similar depth of flavor.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle hint of heat that complements the sauce without overpowering it; you can adjust or omit according to your spice tolerance.
Is this Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe gluten-free?
To keep it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce and ensure the oyster sauce is gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe, you’ll understand why it’s such a cherished favorite. The amazing balance of flavors, the quick cooking time, and the vibrant, fresh ingredients make it the perfect dish to share with loved ones on any night of the week. Give it a go, and I promise it will become a staple in your kitchen too!
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
A quick and flavorful stir-fry featuring succulent shrimp and crisp broccoli florets tossed in a savory and slightly sweet sauce made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and aromatic ginger and garlic. This dish is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner packed with protein and vibrant vegetables.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Sauces & Oils
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Spices & Miscellaneous
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 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 to let the flavors meld.
- Cook 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 per side until they turn pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook broccoli: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender-crisp but still vibrant green.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the broccoli. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine shrimp and sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and broccoli. Stir well to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
- Finish cooking: Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly, creating a glossy coating over the ingredients.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice or noodles, if desired.
Notes
- For extra heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add freshly sliced chili peppers.
- Shrimp cook quickly; avoid overcooking to keep them tender and juicy.
- Broccoli can be substituted with other vegetables like snap peas or bell peppers.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium content if preferred.
