Shrimp Broccoli Stir Fry

If you're looking for a quick, healthy, and tasty stir fry, this Shrimp Broccoli Stir Fry is a must-try! It's packed with flavor, made with simple ingredients, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Light, garlicky, and full of texture - this is one of my favorite go-to meals for busy weeknights.

Jump to:

• About the Ingredients
• How to Stir Fry Shrimp with Broccoli (Step by Step)
• Storage & Reheating
• FAQ
• Shrimp Broccoli Stir Fry
• More Delicious Shrimp Recipes
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About the Ingredients

Here's some info about the ingredients that may be helpful!

Shrimp

Shrimp is an excellent lean protein that cooks super fast, making it perfect for stir fries. I always use wild-caught shrimp - not just for flavor and texture, but because I discovered I'm allergic to farm-raised shrimp!

Turns out, many farm-raised shrimp are treated with chemicals like antibiotics and pesticides, which can trigger reactions in some people (like me!). For the best quality and taste, wild-caught is definitely the way to go.

Broccoli

Broccoli brings a nice crunch and bright green color to this dish. It's perfect for soaking up the savory sauce and adds a healthy dose of nutrients - including over 150% of your daily vitamin C in just 100 grams! It's also rich in vitamin A, K, iron, and fiber.

Other Key Ingredients

• Cornstarch - This simple ingredient helps tenderize the shrimp and gives them a silky coating once stir-fried. It also helps thicken the sauce slightly.
• Michiu / Rice Cooking Wine - A staple in Chinese cooking, this adds subtle sweetness and depth to both the shrimp and the sauce. You can substitute with Shaoxing wine or dry sherry if needed.
• Garlic - Minced garlic infuses the stir fry with bold aroma and flavor-it's a must-have for that classic Chinese stir fry base.
• Soy Sauce - Brings saltiness and umami to the dish. You can use low sodium if preferred to control salt levels. I say it's optional because you technically don't need it - depending on how light you want it to be - so basically this just depends on your preference!
• Sesame Oil - Adds rich, nutty flavor and is best added at the end for that finishing touch of fragrance.
• Honey - Just a touch of honey balances out the salt and adds a light sweetness to the sauce.
• Salt - Use as needed to bring all the flavors together

How to Stir Fry Shrimp with Broccoli (Step by Step)

First, gather your ingredients:

• ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 3 teaspoon michiu (rice cooking wine)
• 2 tablespoon cooking oil, separated
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 oz broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
• Salt, to taste
• Optional: Red chili peppers (for a kick) and toasted sesame seeds (for a nutty crunch and visual flair)

Marinate the shrimp:
In a bowl, combine shrimp with cornstarch, rice cooking wine, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes.

Stir-fry the shrimp:
Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and stir-fry for about 30 seconds per side, until just cooked. Remove and set aside.

Cook the aromatics and broccoli:
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and the garlic and red chili peppers (if using). Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add broccoli and stir-fry for 1 minute.

Steam the broccoli:
Add a splash of water, cover, and cook for about 2 minutes on medium-low heat until broccoli is tender but still crisp.

Combine everything:
Uncover the pan and return the shrimp. Add soy sauce (if using), sesame oil, honey (or sugar), and salt to taste. Stir-fry everything on high heat for 2-3 minutes, until well combined and heated through.

Finish and serve:
Transfer to a serving plate and top with toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot with rice!

Here's another time I made this dish but with home grown red chili peppers and sesame seeds sprinkled:

Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Not recommended, as shrimp and broccoli both lose their texture once frozen and thawed.
• Reheat:
  • Stovetop (best): Heat a splash of oil or water in a pan over medium heat and stir fry until just warmed through.
  • Microwave: Heat in short 20-30 second bursts. Shrimp can overcook quickly, so avoid overheating.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw, peel, and devein before cooking. Pat dry with paper towels so they stir fry properly instead of steaming.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, though it releases more water and will be softer than fresh. Cook uncovered to let extra moisture evaporate.

What can I serve with shrimp broccoli stir fry?
Steamed rice is classic, but fried rice, noodles, or even quinoa all work. It's also great with a light soup or cucumber salad.

More Delicious Shrimp Recipes

If you're a fan of shrimp dishes that are quick, tasty, and packed with flavor, these recipes are a must-try! Whether you're looking for something simple or something a little more saucy, there's something here for every shrimp lover:

• Shrimp and Onion Stir Fry - This one's as simple as it gets: marinated shrimp stir-fried with onions for a dish that's clean, savory, and satisfying. I like keeping it minimal with just garlic salt to let the ingredients shine, but you can easily add your favorite sauces too!
• Shrimp Snap Peas Stir Fry - Juicy shrimp and crisp snap peas come together in this light but satisfying stir fry. It's ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something healthy, fast, and flavorful.
• Shrimp in Lobster Sauce - A Chinese-American takeout favorite you can make at home! This dish features tender shrimp in a silky garlic sauce with green onions and broth. It's cozy, savory, and perfect with a bowl of white rice.
• Shrimp with Eggs Stir Fry with Basil - A soft, savory classic you'll find in many Chinese households. This version adds Thai basil for an aromatic twist on the traditional dish. The combination of fluffy eggs and plump shrimp makes this comfort food at its finest.

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