Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry: A 20-Minute Weeknight Wonder

ByEmma

If you’re craving a dish that’s fast, flavorful, and family-approved, this Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry is your answer. Combining succulent shrimp with crisp-tender broccoli, all enveloped in a savory garlic-ginger sauce, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious. The best part? It comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.

Contents

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (or brown sugar)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes or Sriracha for heat

Pro Tip: Using toasted sesame oil adds a rich, nutty flavor that’s essential in many Asian dishes.

🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prep the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and the cornstarch slurry. This will be your flavorful stir-fry sauce.

2. Cook the Shrimp

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3. Stir-Fry the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until they are bright green and tender-crisp.

4. Combine Everything

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the prepared sauce over the top, stirring to coat all the ingredients evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and everything to heat through.

5. Serve

Serve the stir-fry hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.

Pro Tip: For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

🧠 Additional Tips & Variations

  • Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
  • Protein Alternatives: Not a fan of shrimp? Substitute with chicken, tofu, or beef strips.
  • Make It Spicy: Add a dash of Sriracha or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

🥡 Final Thoughts

This Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof. Give it a try, and it might just become a staple in your meal rotation!

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