Description
This Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired main course featuring tender shrimp and crisp bell peppers tossed in a savory soy-based sauce. Perfect for a fast weeknight dinner, it combines fresh vegetables, aromatic garlic and ginger, and a hint of sweetness for a balanced meal that’s delicious over rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp Marinade
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- ½ yellow onion (sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Oils and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and the cornstarch. Let it sit while you prepare the vegetables and sauce so the shrimp can absorb the flavors and the cornstarch helps create a velvety texture when cooked.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), and red pepper flakes if using. Set aside to use later.
- Cook Shrimp: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: In the same pan, add the sesame oil. Then add the sliced bell peppers and onion, stir-frying for about 3 to 4 minutes until they are crisp-tender. This helps the vegetables retain some crunch and fresh flavor.
- Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan with the vegetables. Cook for an additional 30 seconds while stirring constantly to release their aroma without burning.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce mixture. Toss everything together to evenly coat the shrimp and vegetables with the sauce. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce bubbles and thickens slightly, enhancing the flavors.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the stir-fry hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- Add broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra vegetables and texture.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari sauce.
- Prepping all ingredients before starting ensures quick and smooth cooking since this dish cooks rapidly.
