Introduction:
Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with lean protein, crisp-tender vegetables, and a savory sauce, it brings together simplicity and great taste in one pan. This Asian-inspired meal is delicious served over rice or noodles and can be ready in just under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced (optional)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce)
1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup water or chicken broth
Cooked white rice, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Prep the shrimp and broccoli: If using frozen shrimp, thaw and pat them dry. Wash and cut broccoli into bite-sized florets.
Blanch broccoli (optional): Boil or steam broccoli for 1-2 minutes until just tender but still bright green. Drain and set aside.
Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch slurry, sesame oil, and a splash of water. Set aside.
Cook shrimp: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper, and stir-fry until pink and cooked through (2–3 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Stir-fry veggies: In the same pan, add remaining oil, garlic, and ginger. Sauté briefly until fragrant (about 30 seconds), then add broccoli.
Combine and finish: Return shrimp to the pan, pour in the sauce, and toss everything together. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the shrimp and broccoli.
Serve: Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Description:
This dish is a classic combination of juicy shrimp and crunchy broccoli, tossed in a glossy, umami-rich sauce. It’s healthy, colorful, and incredibly satisfying. The quick stir-frying method keeps everything crisp and vibrant while locking in flavor.
Tips:
Use fresh shrimp if possible for better texture and flavor.
Don’t overcook the shrimp—they turn rubbery if left too long.
Add other vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots for variety.
Want it spicy? Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
Ginger adds zing, but can be skipped if you prefer a milder flavor.
Cornstarch slurry helps thicken the sauce—don’t skip it!
Corrections to Avoid:
Overcrowding the pan: This steams instead of stir-fries the food. Cook in batches if needed.
Overcooking broccoli: It should stay green and slightly crisp, not mushy.
Skipping the sauce prep: Mixing sauces beforehand ensures even distribution and quicker cooking.
