If you’re looking for a vibrant, quick, and utterly satisfying meal, this Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. Picture succulent shrimp tossed with crisp broccoli florets, all drenched in a luscious garlic sauce that balances savory, sweet, and just the right amount of tang. It’s a dish that brings together fresh ingredients in a way that’s both comforting and exciting, perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t need a pantry full of fancy items for this dish—just a handful of basics that really shine through when combined. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s the crunch of fresh broccoli or the bold flavor of the garlic sauce that makes this stir fry pop with brightness and texture.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, juicy and tender, cooks quickly to keep that perfect bite.
- 3 cups broccoli florets: Adds vibrant green color and a satisfying crunch to balance the shrimp.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: A neutral oil perfect for stir-frying without overpowering flavors.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The aromatic foundation of the sauce, delivering rich warmth and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional): Brightens the dish with a subtle zing and freshness.
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce: Provides the essential umami and saltiness.
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Adds a savory, slightly sweet complexity to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce: Brings a touch of sweetness and body to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps the sauce thicken to a glossy finish.
- 1/2 cup water: Balances the sauce and helps with cooking consistency.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds a subtle tang that brightens the entire dish.
- 1 tablespoon honey: A gentle sweetness that perfectly complements the savory elements.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Introduces a little heat if you like a gentle kick.
- Cooked white rice for serving: The perfect canvas to soak up every bit of the flavorful garlic sauce.
How to Make Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Sauce
Begin by whisking together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, water, rice vinegar, honey, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This harmonious blend is what will transform the stir fry into a glossy, irresistible dish. Setting it aside lets the flavors mingle while you move on to the next steps.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
In a large skillet or wok, heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil on medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they’re pink and just cooked through. It’s important not to overcook them to keep their tender, juicy texture. Remove the shrimp and set them aside for now.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Broccoli
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan, then toss in the broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until they reach a crisp-tender state—still vibrant and slightly crunchy. This timing preserves their fresh snap and brilliant color, which adds energy to the dish.
Step 4: Add the Aromatics
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger if using. Cook these for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to awaken their flavors without burning. This step fills your kitchen with an amazing aroma and lays the foundation for the luscious garlic sauce.
Step 5: Combine and Coat with Sauce
Return the shrimp to the pan, then pour the pre-mixed garlic sauce all over. Stir everything together thoroughly so each piece is coated in the glossy sauce. Let it cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through. The magic happens here as the sauce clings to shrimp and broccoli, making every bite burst with flavor.
How to Serve Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions or a scattering of sesame seeds on top can add a lovely visual contrast and extra crunch. If you love a little heat, drizzle a bit of chili oil or add a few fresh sliced chilies for a daring spin.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or even a bed of fluffy quinoa for an alternative grain. For a heartier meal, serve alongside simple steamed dumplings or a crisp Asian cucumber salad to freshen the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve your stir fry in individual bowls, layering the rice first, then topping it with the shrimp and broccoli. Another fun idea is to use colorful bell peppers in the stir fry for more visual appeal and an additional sweet crunch. If you’re entertaining, consider plating the shrimp atop a nest of spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover shrimp and broccoli stir fry in an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s best enjoyed within 2 days to keep the shrimp tender and broccoli crisp. Be mindful that over time, the broccoli may soften further but will still taste delicious.
Freezing
This recipe doesn’t freeze exceptionally well because the texture of the shrimp and broccoli can change after thawing. If you must freeze, store the stir fry without the rice in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to help maintain texture, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid microwaving directly from frozen—it can lead to rubbery shrimp and soggy broccoli. Adding a splash of water or broth during reheating can help loosen the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan, which can affect the stir-fry’s texture.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this dish?
You can swap shrimp for tofu or tempeh and use vegetable oyster sauce or mushroom-based sauces to keep the flavors rich and satisfying. The cooking method remains the same.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Adding extra red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce during the sauce mixing stage will kick up the heat. Fresh chopped chilies stirred in with the garlic and ginger also work wonderfully.
What’s the best way to keep broccoli crisp?
Blanching broccoli for about one minute before stir-frying helps keep it vibrantly green and crisp without overcooking it during the stir-fry process.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the garlic sauce ingredients ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just give it a quick stir before using to recombine any settled ingredients.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to dive into this Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that manages to feel both wholesome and indulgent, perfect for sharing around the table or enjoying a cozy solo dinner. Give it a go—you might just find your new favorite weeknight meal!
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Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Description
A quick and flavorful Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry in a savory garlic sauce, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Tender shrimp and crisp broccoli are coated in a rich blend of soy, oyster, and hoisin sauces with garlic and ginger, served hot over steamed white rice.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Vegetables
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
Garlic Sauce
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
To Serve
- Cooked white rice
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, water, rice vinegar, honey, and red pepper flakes. Set aside this flavorful garlic sauce.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
- Stir-Fry the Broccoli: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan, then toss in the broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until crisp-tender, maintaining their bright green color and crunch.
- Add Aromatics: Add minced garlic and grated ginger (if using) to the pan with the broccoli. Cook while stirring constantly for 30 seconds to release their fragrance without burning.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and pour in the prepared garlic sauce. Stir thoroughly to evenly coat the shrimp and broccoli with the thickening sauce.
- Finish Cooking: Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce has thickened and everything is heated through, ensuring all flavors meld together beautifully.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp and broccoli stir fry immediately over a bed of cooked white rice for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Avoid overcooking shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Blanch broccoli for 1 minute before stir-frying to reduce cooking time and maintain vibrant color.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your heat preference or omit if sensitive to spice.
