Easy Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. It features tender shrimp, crisp-tender broccoli, and a savory sauce that's sure to please. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Equipment
- Large Skillet or Wok
- Small bowl
- Whisk
- Pot
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup soy sauce low sodium preferred
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- Sesame seeds optional garnish
- Chopped green onions optional garnish
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions
- Peel and devein the shrimp. Pat them dry with paper towels.
- Cut the broccoli into florets. Parboil or steam them for 2-3 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- Finely mince the garlic cloves.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and ground ginger.
- Heat the olive oil or avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pan and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they're pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- Add the parboiled broccoli to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until it's heated through and slightly tender.
- Pour the stir-fry sauce over the broccoli and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and is glossy.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss to coat with the sauce. Cook for another minute, until everything is heated through.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
- Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Notes
Don't overcook the shrimp; cook until just pink and opaque. Use high heat for best results. Prep all ingredients in advance as stir-fries cook quickly. Adjust the sauce to your liking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or heat in a skillet. Broccoli may soften upon reheating. For variations, add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. Substitute chicken, beef, or tofu for shrimp. Add more red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicier kick. Use maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar instead of honey. Add chopped peanuts or cashews for extra crunch.