Shrimp and broccoli stir fry is that irresistible dish that dances in your mouth like a Broadway number, with delightful flavors swirling together in perfect harmony. Imagine the tender shrimp, succulent and seared to perfection, mingling with vibrant green broccoli, all tossed in a savory sauce that will make your taste buds sing. chipotle ranch grilled chicken burrito The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making every corner of your home feel like a five-star restaurant as you eagerly anticipate each bite.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s nostalgia on a plate! I remember the first time I made shrimp and broccoli stir fry for my friends during college. They were skeptical at first—wasn’t that just something you ordered from takeout? But after one bite, they transformed into culinary fans, raving about how quick and easy it was to whip up this masterpiece right at home. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or looking for a speedy weeknight meal, this shrimp and broccoli stir fry is perfect for any occasion!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This shrimp and broccoli stir fry is super quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- The flavor profile is a delightful mix of savory and slightly sweet notes that everyone will enjoy.
- Its vibrant colors will brighten up any dinner table, making it an eye-catching centerpiece.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with any vegetables or proteins you have on hand!
Ingredients for shrimp and broccoli stir fry
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Shrimp: Use large, peeled shrimp for best results; fresh or thawed frozen shrimp works well.
- Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli gives the best crunch; cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add amazing flavor; chop them finely to release their aroma.
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps keep the dish savory without overwhelming saltiness.
- Vegetable Oil: Use oil with a high smoke point like canola or grapeseed for frying.
For the Sauce:
- Honey: Sweetens the sauce perfectly; you can substitute with maple syrup if desired.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce for that glossy finish; dissolve in water before adding.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make shrimp and broccoli stir fry
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Chop the garlic and cut your broccoli into manageable florets.
Step 2: Heat Up Your Pan
In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers—this is when you know it’s ready for cooking!
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Add the chopped garlic to the pan. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant but not browned; we want aromatic goodness without burnt bits.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Toss in your shrimp next! Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once they’re done, remove them from the pan and set aside.
Step 5: Stir-Fry Broccoli
In that same pan (hello, flavor!), add your broccoli florets. Stir-fry them quickly for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender but still crunchy. flavorful antipasto salad crunchy broccoli salad recipe.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the cooked shrimp to the pan with broccoli. Add soy sauce, honey, and dissolved cornstarch to create that luscious sauce. Stir everything together on high heat until combined—this should take around another minute.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce as needed for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy this delectable shrimp and broccoli stir fry that’s bound to impress anyone who takes a bite!
You Must Know
- This shrimp and broccoli stir fry not only delivers a flavor explosion but also makes dinner prep effortless.
- You can easily swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge, making it a colorful and aromatic centerpiece at any meal.
- Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the shrimp while you chop the broccoli. Sauté the shrimp first until pink, then toss in the broccoli and stir-fry until tender-crisp for a delightful crunch. This sequence ensures everything cooks evenly and flavors meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish! Swap broccoli for snap peas or bell peppers, or add garlic for an extra kick. Experiment with soy sauce or teriyaki for a different taste profile that suits your palate!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave until warm, or stir-fry briefly on the stovetop to retain that delightful texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use high heat when stir-frying to achieve that perfect sear on the shrimp without overcooking them.
- Fresh vegetables will maintain their vibrant colors and crunch if cooked quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this will steam rather than fry your ingredients!
Cooking this shrimp and broccoli stir fry reminds me of my friend’s dinner party where I wowed everyone with my culinary skills—who knew shrimp could be so popular?
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for shrimp and broccoli stir fry?
To make a delicious shrimp and broccoli stir fry, gather fresh shrimp, broccoli florets, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger. You can also add bell peppers or snap peas for extra flavor and nutrition. For an authentic taste, consider using oyster sauce or hoisin sauce. homemade Caesar salad Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and tender while keeping the broccoli vibrant. This combination creates a delightful dish that is both healthy and satisfying.
How long does it take to prepare shrimp and broccoli stir fry?
Preparing shrimp and broccoli stir fry is quick and efficient. From start to finish, you can have this dish ready in about 20 to 30 minutes. Begin by marinating the shrimp for around 10 minutes while you chop your vegetables. Stir frying itself usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes. The key is to cook on high heat to maintain the crispness of the broccoli. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights. For more inspiration, check out this Amish country casserole recipe.
Can I make shrimp and broccoli stir fry ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare shrimp and broccoli stir fry ahead of time. However, it’s best to store the components separately until you’re ready to eat. Cooked shrimp can be refrigerated for up to two days, while steamed broccoli retains its freshness in an airtight container. When reheating, be cautious not to overcook the shrimp as it may become rubbery. Enjoy your prepped meal within a few days for optimal flavor.
What can I serve with shrimp and broccoli stir fry?
Shrimp and broccoli stir fry pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. For a complete meal, serve it over steamed rice or noodles; both options absorb the savory sauce beautifully. You might also consider quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier alternative. For extra crunch, add some toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions as a garnish before serving.
Conclusion for shrimp and broccoli stir fry :
In conclusion, shrimp and broccoli stir fry is a quick, nutritious dish that delivers on flavor and convenience. With just a handful of ingredients—shrimp, fresh broccoli, garlic, and soy sauce—you can whip up a delightful meal in under thirty minutes. Remember to keep your cooking temperature high to preserve the vibrant colors of the vegetables while ensuring the shrimp cooks perfectly. Whether enjoyed on its own or served over rice, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter lobster tail recipe.
Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Shrimp and broccoli stir fry is a vibrant and delicious dish that brings together succulent shrimp and crisp broccoli, all enveloped in a savory sauce. This quick meal can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner guests. The combination of flavors creates a delightful experience that will impress anyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (canola or grapeseed)
- 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Rinse the shrimp and pat dry. Chop the garlic and cut the broccoli into florets.
- Heat the pan: In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high until shimmering.
- Sauté garlic: Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook shrimp: Add shrimp to the pan, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from pan.
- Stir-fry broccoli: In the same pan, add broccoli and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- Combine everything: Return shrimp to the pan, add soy sauce, honey, and dissolved cornstarch. Stir on high heat for another minute until combined.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
Leave a Comment