One rainy afternoon, I opened the freezer and saw a bag of shrimp peeking out beside the broccoli florets I had planned to use for soup. The gloomy weather called for something fast, warm, and energizing. So I grabbed my wok, tossed in garlic and ginger, and let the sizzle do the cheering.

My middle son, always skeptical of anything green, wandered in. “What’s for dinner?” he asked, cautiously eyeing the skillet. When I told him shrimp and broccoli, he raised an eyebrow—but ten minutes later, he was reaching for seconds, sauce dribbling down his spoon. That’s when I knew I’d found another family-friendly winner.

This Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry is everything I need on busy nights: fast, flavorful, and full of texture. It takes pantry basics and turns them into a fresh, vibrant meal—no delivery required.

Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry - Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry

Short Description

Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick, one-pan dinner packed with juicy shrimp, crisp-tender broccoli, and a glossy garlic-ginger soy sauce. It’s a 20-minute dish that’s wholesome, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy—ready in about 20 minutes
Protein and veggies in every bite
Flavor-packed garlic and ginger soy sauce
Customizable with your favorite stir fry veggies
Perfect over rice or noodles for a full meal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 cups broccoli florets
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 Tbsp fresh ginger, minced
2 Tbsp oil (vegetable or avocado)

Sauce Ingredients

3 Tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
1 Tbsp oyster sauce (or hoisin as a backup)
1 Tbsp rice vinegar or lemon juice
1 tsp toasted sesame oil
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 Tbsp water

Optional Add-ons

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp honey for mild sweetness
Green onions or sesame seeds for garnish

Tools & Equipment

Large skillet or wok
Mixing bowl for sauce
Spatula or tongs
Plate or bowl for resting shrimp

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch slurry. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the shrimp
Heat 1 Tbsp oil in skillet over medium-high. Add shrimp in a single layer, cook for 1–2 minutes per side until just pink. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Stir fry the broccoli
Add remaining oil. Stir in garlic and ginger, cook for 30 seconds. Add broccoli and a splash of water; stir-fry 3–4 minutes until bright green and just tender.

Step 4: Combine and sauce
Return shrimp to pan. Pour in the sauce and toss everything until coated. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes until thickened.

Step 5: Serve
Sprinkle with green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or grain bowls.

Notes & Variations

Swap shrimp with sliced chicken or tofu
Add carrots, mushrooms, or snap peas
Skip oyster sauce and use all soy for a lighter version
Add more cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker glaze
Stir in chili garlic sauce for extra heat

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving too long to keep shrimp from becoming rubbery.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve this stir fry over steamed jasmine rice or brown rice. It also works well with rice noodles or soba for something different. Pair with a quick cucumber salad or miso soup for a complete, balanced meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes—thaw them fully and pat dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture.

2. Do I need to blanch the broccoli?
Not necessary! Stir-frying with a splash of water gives it just the right texture.

3. Is this dish spicy?
Only if you add chili flakes or chili paste. It’s mild by default.

4. Can I make the sauce ahead?
Absolutely—mix and refrigerate the sauce up to 3 days in advance.

5. What’s the best way to keep shrimp juicy?
Avoid overcooking. As soon as they turn pink and curl slightly, remove them from heat.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry proves that fast meals can still taste fresh and exciting. The contrast of crisp broccoli, tender shrimp, and that savory-sweet sauce never fails to win over my family. It’s my go-to when I need dinner on the table fast, and it never disappoints.