If you’ve ever wondered how to turn a simple weeknight dinner into a memorable feast, this stir-fried shrimp and broccoli recipe is your golden ticket. I still smile thinking back to the first time I tossed those plump, peeled shrimp into a sizzling wok, only to have them burst into pink perfection in seconds. The vibrant green broccoli florets dance alongside the shrimp, soaking up every bit of that savory sauce. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast: tender shrimp, crisp-tender broccoli, and a silky glaze that clings to every morsel. The fresh garlic and grated ginger create just the right spark of warmth, and a splash of sesame oil at the end brings it all home with a delicate, nutty whisper.
What makes this dish truly stand out is how accessible it is—beginner cooks, rejoice! The entire recipe comes together in under half an hour, with just 15 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking time. You don’t need exotic ingredients or advanced techniques, just trusty staples like soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a hint of cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Serve it over steaming rice to soak up every last drop of that delicious liquid gold. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this stir-fry isn’t just speedy; it’s packed with protein, fiber, and enough color to brighten your plate—and your mood—any night of the week.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN STIR-FRIED SHRIMP AND BROCCOLI
Before we dive into the step-by-step magic, let’s get cozy with each component that makes this dish shine. These ingredients work in harmony, giving you a balanced combination of protein, crunch, and mouthwatering sauce. Having everything laid out and prepped ensures a smooth, stress-free cooking experience and guarantees vibrant, restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen.
- Large shrimp
Tender, juicy, and rich in protein, shrimp forms the heart of this dish. Peeled and deveined, they cook quickly and absorb the flavors of ginger, garlic, and the savory sauce, creating a seafood sensation on your plate.
- Broccoli florets
These bright green nuggets add a satisfying crunch and a boost of vitamins. When stir-fried just right, they stay slightly crisp, providing a perfect texture contrast to the soft shrimp.
- Vegetable oil
A neutral oil with a high smoke point, vegetable oil keeps the pan hot enough to sear ingredients without burning, ensuring that garlic, ginger, and shrimp all develop those coveted caramelized edges.
- Garlic
Minced garlic infuses the oil with pungent, aromatic flavor. It forms the foundational layer of taste that makes every stir-fry irresistible.
- Fresh ginger
Grated ginger brings a bright, peppery kick. It cuts through the richness of the sauces and ties together seafood and vegetables with its zesty warmth.
- Soy sauce
A salty, umami powerhouse, soy sauce provides depth and complexity. It forms the base of the stir-fry sauce, seasoning both shrimp and broccoli in one smooth pour.
- Oyster sauce
Rich and slightly sweet, oyster sauce amplifies the savory profile of the dish. It blends beautifully with soy sauce to create a glossy, flavorful coating.
- Cornstarch
Acting as a thickening agent, cornstarch ensures the sauce clings to every ingredient. It transforms watery liquid into a luscious glaze.
- Chicken broth
Added to thin out the sauce and add extra savory notes, chicken broth blends seamlessly with soy and oyster sauces, giving the stir-fry a silky consistency.
- Sesame oil
A little drizzle of this aromatic oil at the end adds a nutty, toasty finish. It’s the secret wink that pulls all the flavors together.
- Salt and black pepper
Simple seasonings that allow you to adjust taste to your preference, highlighting and balancing the dish without overpowering the main ingredients.
- Cooked rice
The perfect vehicle for soaking up any leftover sauce, rice completes the meal, turning each serving into a satisfying, comforting bowl.
HOW TO MAKE STIR-FRIED SHRIMP AND BROCCOLI
Now that our ingredients are prepped and ready, let’s bring everything together. This section walks you through each essential technique and timing to achieve a restaurant-quality stir-fry at home.
1. Prepare the shrimp by washing them thoroughly under cold water and then patting them dry with paper towels. Ensuring the shrimp are completely dry helps them sear properly and develop a light crust when they hit the hot pan.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Then slowly whisk in the chicken broth until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps. Set this flavorful sauce aside for later.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or pan over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 3 minutes, until they turn vibrant green and are just tender. Transfer the broccoli to a plate and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring quickly for about 30 seconds until fragrant and golden—but be careful not to let them burn.
5. Increase the heat to high and add the shrimp to the hot pan. Stir-fry the shrimp for 2–3 minutes, flipping them as needed, until they turn opaque pink and curl slightly, indicating they’re cooked through.
6. Return the broccoli to the pan and pour in the prepared soy sauce mixture. Toss everything together, making sure the sauce coats both shrimp and broccoli evenly and begins to thicken.
7. Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir-fry and give it one final toss to distribute the nutty flavor. Sprinkle in salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning if needed.
8. Serve immediately over cooked rice, making sure each plate or bowl has an even share of shrimp, broccoli, and that irresistible sauce.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR STIR-FRIED SHRIMP AND BROCCOLI
Making this vibrant stir-fry is half the fun, but serving it in a way that truly highlights its flavors and textures can elevate a simple home-cooked meal into a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet dinner for two, these serving ideas will help you present your dish like a pro while adding layers of flavor and visual appeal. Experiment with garnishes and accompaniments that complement the savory-sweet profile of the shrimp and the earthy crunch of the broccoli.
- Drizzle with fresh lime juice right before serving to add a zesty, citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the sauce.
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for an extra crunch and a visually appealing finish, deepening the nutty notes introduced by the sesame oil.
- Garnish with a handful of fresh cilantro or scallions, chopped finely, to introduce a burst of herbal freshness that balances the savory elements beautifully.
- Offer spicy chili oil or red pepper flakes on the side for guests to customize their heat level, adding a spark of bold flavor for those who crave a little Fire emoji with their dinner.
HOW TO STORE STIR-FRIED SHRIMP AND BROCCOLI
Storing leftovers properly will help you preserve all the delightful flavors and textures of this stir-fried shrimp and broccoli, ensuring your next meal is just as enjoyable as the first. Whether you plan to enjoy a quick lunch the next day or save portions for a few days in advance, these storage tips will keep your dish tasting fresh and vibrant.
- Airtight container in the refrigerator: Transfer cooled leftovers into a sealed container and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. This prevents moisture loss and keeps the broccoli slightly crisp.
- Separate sauce storage: If you anticipate enjoying the dish over several days, consider storing the shrimp and broccoli separately from any extra sauce. Reheat gently and add sauce as needed to avoid soggy veggies.
- Freezing method: For longer storage, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to one month and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating tips: Reheat gently in a nonstick skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the mixture seems dry, splash in a bit of broth or water to revive the sauce’s consistency.
CONCLUSION
This stir-fried shrimp and broccoli recipe has everything you need for a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious meal. From the vibrant ribbons of green broccoli to the succulent, perfectly seared shrimp, every component works together in harmony. The savory sauce—crafted from soy, oyster sauce, and a whisper of sesame oil—ties it all into a silky coating that’s best enjoyed over a bed of steaming rice. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned home chef, you’ll find this recipe approachable and endlessly adaptable. Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder so it’s always at your fingertips for those busy weeknights. You can also save it for later or bookmark it as part of your go-to meal rotation. Below, you’ll find a helpful FAQ section to troubleshoot any questions or tailor the recipe further to your taste.
I hope this guide inspires you to fire up your wok and bring this vibrant dish to life in your kitchen. If you have any comments, questions, or feedback—especially if you try the recipe and make it your own—I’d love to hear from you. Your cooking triumphs and tips help our community grow, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. Happy cooking, and may your stir-fries always be flavorful and bright!
Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli
Description
This stir-fried shrimp and broccoli recipe brings together tender shrimp and crisp broccoli, tossed in a savory sauce that'll keep you coming back for more. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Prepare the shrimp by washing them thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels.
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In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Set aside.
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Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or pan over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 3 minutes, until they are vibrant green and just tender. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside.
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In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring quickly for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
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Increase the heat to high and add the shrimp. Stir-fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes, until they turn pink and are cooked through.
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Return the broccoli to the pan and pour in the soy sauce mixture. Stir everything together, letting the sauce coat the shrimp and broccoli evenly.
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Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir-fry and toss well. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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Serve immediately over cooked rice, ensuring each portion has an equal share of shrimp and broccoli.
Note
- For added flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.
- Use freshly grated ginger for the best aroma and taste.
- Feel free to add sliced bell peppers or snap peas for more color and nutrition.
- For a spicy kick, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or sliced chili.
- Make sure the broccoli is not overcooked; it should remain slightly crunchy.
