Broccoli Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe

If you’re craving a quick, vibrant meal that bursts with flavor and texture, this Broccoli Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe is an absolute winner. It perfectly balances juicy shrimp, crisp broccoli, and colorful vegetables tossed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. Whether you’re a weeknight warrior or a weekend chef, this dish comes together fast, making it both practical and irresistibly delicious. I promise, once you try this Broccoli Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe, it might just become your go-to dinner for any occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Broccoli Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe lies in its simplicity and freshness. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the tender shrimp adding protein to the crunchy broccoli and vibrant bell pepper providing a lovely contrast in texture and color. Together, they create a harmonious dish that’s as nutritious as it is tasty.

• Large shrimp (1 pound): Peeled and deveined for quick, even cooking and easy eating.
• Broccoli florets (2 cups): Adds crunch, color, and a nutritional boost packed with vitamins.
• Bell pepper (1, sliced): Choose red or yellow for sweetness and a pop of color.
• Carrot (1 medium, julienned): Brings a subtle sweetness and bright orange hue.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with its aromatic pungency.
• Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Provides a savory backbone with a touch of saltiness.
• Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds depth and a mild sweetness, elevating the overall flavor.
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Helps thicken the sauce, giving it that perfect glossy finish.
• Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Ideal for stir-frying without overpowering flavors.
• Ginger (1 teaspoon, grated): Adds a refreshing zing and warmth to the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Season according to taste to bring everything together.
• Cooked rice or noodles: To serve and soak up all those lovely juices.

How to Make Broccoli Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Shrimp

Start by rinsing your shrimp under cold water to remove any residue or ice glaze, then pat them dry using a paper towel. This step ensures they’ll sauté nicely without steaming, which keeps them juicy and tender.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, freshly grated ginger, salt, and pepper. This flavorful combo will coat your shrimp and veggies, turning this dish into a deliciously saucy delight.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. A good hot pan is key to achieving that perfect stir-fry texture without sogginess.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the hot skillet, sautéing them for 2-3 minutes until they turn a beautiful pink and curl up slightly. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender. Once done, remove the shrimp and set aside to prevent them from continuing to cook.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic, broccoli florets, bell pepper slices, and julienned carrot. Stir-fry for about 3 to 5 minutes until the vegetables are bright, tender yet still crisp—a key texture contrast in this recipe.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients and Sauce

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and vegetables, stirring gently to coat everything evenly. This step melds the flavors beautifully.

Step 7: Finish Cooking

Keep stirring for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to each piece of shrimp and vegetable. This glossy coating is what makes the dish so satisfying.

Step 8: Final Check

Make sure the shrimp are thoroughly cooked through and the vegetables maintain their delightful crunch. Adjust seasoning if necessary before removing the skillet from heat.

Step 9: Serve

Plate your Broccoli Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe over freshly cooked rice or noodles. The starch will soak up the flavorful sauce, making every bite simply irresistible. Enjoy!

How to Serve Broccoli Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe

Garnishes

To add a fresh, lively finish, sprinkle chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top. A squeeze of lime juice can also brighten the flavors and add a subtle tang that cuts through the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve your Broccoli Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe alongside steamed jasmine rice, fluffy brown rice, or your favorite noodles to keep the meal hearty. A crisp cucumber salad or simple miso soup can complement the stir fry for a more complete dining experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the stir fry inside hollowed bell pepper bowls or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a lighter, hand-held option. You can also top it with crushed peanuts for added texture and an extra flavor punch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Broccoli Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it’s perfect for a quick next-day meal.

Freezing

While shrimp can be frozen, the texture of the vegetables may suffer. If necessary, freeze the cooked shrimp and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating and add freshly cooked vegetables when serving.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened too much. Avoid microwaving for long periods to keep the shrimp tender and the vegetables crisp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water that can make the stir fry soggy.

What can I substitute for oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce, a combination of hoisin sauce and a bit of soy sauce can mimic the flavor. Alternatively, vegetarian mushroom sauce works well too.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add freshly sliced chili peppers, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of chili garlic sauce when stir-frying for a kick that suits your heat preference.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make the Broccoli Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce does not contain gluten ingredients.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Snow peas, snap peas, baby corn, and mushrooms all make excellent additions, adding both flavor and nutritional variety.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the combination of tender shrimp and crunchy broccoli in this Broccoli Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe. It’s a dish that feels both nourishing and indulgent, coming together in no time to satisfy your dinner needs. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just discover a new favorite that makes your mealtime exciting and delicious every time!

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