If you are craving a quick, vibrant dish that comes bursting with flavor and nutrition, then the Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish perfectly balances tender, juicy shrimp with crisp, fresh broccoli, all enveloped in a luscious, savory sauce that brings everything together in a delightful symphony of taste and texture. Whether you’re looking to impress at a weeknight dinner or simply want something wholesome and satisfying, this recipe offers a wonderful way to enjoy a classic stir-fry that feels both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful selection of ingredients. Each component serves a purpose, contributing to the dish’s vibrant colors, satisfying textures, and bold flavors.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, providing freshness and a succulent bite.
- 4 cups broccoli florets: Adds a crisp, green crunch loaded with nutrients and color.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor): Essential for a perfect stir-fry sear and mouthwatering aroma.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Offers irresistible savory warmth that elevates the dish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (optional): Adds a zingy brightness and depth if you love a little spice.
- 1 small onion, sliced (optional): Brings natural sweetness and a tender texture when cooked.
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced (optional): For a pop of color and a subtle, sweet crunch.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred): The salty backbone that enhances all other flavors.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Contributes a deep umami richness that makes the sauce unforgettable.
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar: Balances saltiness with a gentle sweetness and a glossy finish.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or white vinegar): Adds a slight tang to brighten the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water: Used to thicken the sauce for a smooth, clingy texture.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional for extra flavor): A finishing touch that provides a warm, nutty aroma.
How to Make Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Begin by whisking together soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar, and the cornstarch-water slurry in a small bowl. This sauce blend will lend your stir-fry a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and tangy elements, and the cornstarch will help it thicken beautifully without being gloopy.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
Heat 1 tablespoon of your chosen oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the broccoli florets and stir-fry them until they are tender-crisp, roughly 3 to 4 minutes. If you prefer softer broccoli, add a splash of water and cover the pan to steam for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. Once ready, transfer the broccoli to a plate and set it aside so you can keep the fresh texture intact.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and then the shrimp. Stir-fry for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque—this indicates they’re perfectly cooked. Take the shrimp off the heat and place them with the broccoli to keep them warm and ready.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger to the skillet, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. If you’re using sliced onion and red bell pepper, toss them in now for added texture and a splash of color. This step infuses the oil with wonderful flavors that will coat the shrimp and broccoli beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked shrimp and broccoli to the skillet, pour the prepared sauce over the ingredients, and stir everything together with enthusiasm. Keep it moving in the pan for 2 to 3 minutes so the sauce thickens and clings to every bite, ensuring that thick, savory goodness is evenly distributed and piping hot.
Step 6: Serve
Your stir-fried shrimp and broccoli is now ready to enjoy! Serve it straight from the skillet, ideally over a bed of steaming jasmine rice or noodles, to soak up every last drop of that incredible sauce.
How to Serve Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a garnish is such a simple way to elevate your dish and make each bite even more exciting. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a subtle crunch and nutty twist. You can also scatter thinly sliced green onions or fresh cilantro leaves to introduce a burst of freshness that balances the deep flavors.
Side Dishes
This stir-fried shrimp and broccoli recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed white or brown rice, which soaks up the flavorful sauce like a champ. For something different, try it with garlic fried rice or noodles for a comforting, soul-satisfying meal. Light cucumber salad or pickled vegetables on the side can add a refreshing contrast too.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can change the entire vibe of a meal! For a festive touch, serve the stir-fry in individual bowls with a wedge of lime for squeezing over the top. You can even hollow out a pineapple or bell pepper halves and serve the stir-fry inside for a stunning visual and a slight fruity undertone to each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which might be a challenge because this dish is so good), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days. This allows you to enjoy the delicious Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe all over again with minimal effort.
Freezing
While shrimp can sometimes become rubbery when frozen and reheated, you can freeze the cooked broccoli and sauce separately for up to a month if needed. It’s best to prepare fresh shrimp when you’re ready to eat to maintain that tender, juicy texture that makes this recipe so special.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Alternatively, use a microwave at short intervals, stirring often to heat evenly without turning the shrimp tough. Add a splash of water or a bit more soy sauce if the sauce looks dry during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the stir-fry, which can affect the texture and the sauce’s thickness.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce on hand, you can use hoisin sauce or even a mixture of soy sauce with a small bit of sugar or molasses for a similar sweet and savory depth.
Is this Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe spicy?
By default, it’s mild and well-balanced, but feel free to add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili garlic sauce if you love a kick of heat.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the shrimp for firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetarian oyster sauce or mushroom soy sauce to keep that umami flavor without animal products.
How do I keep the broccoli bright green and crisp?
Quick stir-frying over high heat preserves that vibrant color and crispness. Avoid overcooking by promptly removing the broccoli once it reaches tender-crisp and optionally steaming with a lid for a minute if you prefer it a bit softer.
Final Thoughts
This Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe is truly a go-to that’s bursting with flavors and textures all at once, making it an absolute joy to cook and share. It’s quick enough for busy nights yet special enough to impress family and friends. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll soon see why it’s one of my favorite dishes to prepare when I want something delicious, wholesome, and just plain satisfying.
Print
Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A quick and flavorful stir-fried shrimp and broccoli recipe combining tender shrimp, crisp broccoli, and a savory-sweet sauce for a healthy and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups broccoli florets
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
- 1 small onion, sliced (optional)
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar, and the cornstarch-water mixture. Stir well until the cornstarch is fully dissolved, then set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Cook the Broccoli: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. For softer broccoli, add a splash of water and cover to steam for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove broccoli from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and grated ginger if using. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. If desired, add sliced onion and red bell pepper now for extra crunch and color.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked shrimp and broccoli to the skillet with the aromatics. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and stir well to coat. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the dish is heated through.
- Serve: Serve the hot stir-fry immediately over rice or noodles for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, replace vegetable oil with sesame oil.
- Adjust sweetness by using honey or brown sugar according to preference.
- Add splash of water while cooking broccoli to soften it if needed.
- Optional vegetables like onion and red bell pepper add color and texture.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to make it heart-healthier.
