Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry is the perfect quick and healthy dinner option that combines crunch of broccoli with the tender, succulent bite of shrimp, all coated in a savory, garlicky sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy: Low-carb, high-protein, and packed with nutrients.
- Customizable: Adapt it to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
- Delicious: A savory sauce with hints of garlic, ginger, and soy elevates the simple ingredients.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh shrimp and broccoli. Frozen options work in a pinch, but fresh ingredients yield a better overall dish.
- Prep Ahead: Stir fry recipes cook quickly, so chop all your vegetables, peel your shrimp, and mix your sauce before turning on the stove.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook in just 2-3 minutes. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep an eye on them.
- Blanch Your Broccoli: To ensure perfectly tender-crisp broccoli, blanch it for 2 minutes in boiling water before stir-frying. This step preserves its bright green color and reduces cooking time.
- High Heat is Key: Stir fry dishes rely on high heat for that perfect sear. Use a wok or large skillet to ensure even cooking.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry: Add a kick with red pepper flakes, chili paste, or Sriracha in the sauce.
- Low-Sodium Option: Replace regular soy sauce with low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos to reduce sodium content.
- Vegetable Boost: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and flavor.
- Keto-Friendly: Skip the cornstarch and opt for a keto-friendly thickener like xanthan gum.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in the sauce.
How to Serve Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry
This stir fry is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a classic pairing.
- Noodles: Toss with rice noodles, udon, or lo mein for a hearty meal.
- Low-Carb Options: Enjoy with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter alternative.
How to Store and Reheat
- Storage: Store leftover Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this stir fry. Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce. Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Thaw them in cold water before cooking and pat dry to avoid excess moisture in the stir fry.
2. What can I use instead of soy sauce? Tamari, coconut aminos, or liquid aminos are excellent substitutes for soy sauce, especially for gluten-free or low-sodium diets.
3. How do I thicken the sauce? Cornstarch mixed with a little water creates a slurry that thickens the sauce. For a gluten-free alternative, arrowroot powder or xanthan gum can be used.
4. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp? Yes, but add them at the very end of the cooking process to avoid overcooking.
5. Is this recipe kid-friendly? Absolutely! You can reduce or omit any spicy elements to make it suitable for children.
Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry
Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry is the perfect quick and healthy dinner option that combines crunch of broccoli with the tender, succulent bite of shrimp, all coated in a savory, garlicky sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 5 cups broccoli florets (about 24 oz.)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced
Homemade Sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce, low sodium
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha, optional
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, add oyster sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch and Sriracha. Whisk well and set aside.
- Heat large cast iron skillet on medium high heat. Add olive oil, once hot, add the shrimp, and cook for about 2-3 minutes or until pink, stirring occasionally.
- Add the broccoli florets and stir cook for about 2-3 minutes or until tender.
- Pour in the soy sauce mixture and combine well and cook for about 60 seconds or slightly thickened.
- Garnish with chopped green onion and toasted sesame seeds.
- Enjoy immediately.
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Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 345Total Fat 9gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 359mgSodium 2366mgCarbohydrates 23gFiber 7gSugar 6gProtein 45g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Check my other shrimp recipes:
Final Thoughts
Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry is a must-have in your dinner rotation. It’s a delightful balance of taste, texture, and nutrition that comes together in no time. With its endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll never tire of. Try it tonight and watch it become a family favorite!
