Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe: Shrimp stir fry is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Bursting with vibrant vegetables, succulent shrimp, and a savory sauce, it’s a meal that satisfies both taste and nutrition. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this easy-to-follow recipe will help you create a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen.
Let’s dive into this mouthwatering shrimp stir fry recipe that takes just 30 minutes to prepare and will have your family asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Healthy Option: Loaded with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
- Customizable: Swap out veggies or adjust flavors to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Reheats well for leftovers.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients Needed for Shrimp Stir Fry
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Vegetables to Include
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 carrot (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup snap peas or snow peas
- ½ cup mushrooms (sliced)
- 2 green onions (chopped for garnish)
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional for heat)
Equipment Required
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Tongs or spatula
How to Make Shrimp Stir Fry – Step by Step Guide
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
How to Peel and Devein Shrimp
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water.
- Peel off the shell starting from the head and working down.
- Use a knife to make a shallow slit along the back of the shrimp.
- Remove the black vein using the tip of the knife or a toothpick.
- Rinse the shrimp again and pat dry with a paper towel.
Chopping Vegetables
- Cut broccoli into small florets.
- Thinly slice the bell peppers and carrots for even cooking.
- Trim snap peas and slice mushrooms.
- Keep vegetables in separate bowls for easy cooking.
Step 2: Making the Stir Fry Sauce
Mixing the Ingredients
- Combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, honey, and chili flakes in a bowl.
- Whisk until smooth and well-blended.
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture (for thickening).
Taste Testing and Adjustments
- Taste the sauce and adjust sweetness or saltiness as needed.
- Add extra chili flakes for more heat or honey for a sweeter flavor.
Step 3: Cooking the Shrimp
Marinating the Shrimp
- Toss shrimp with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of soy sauce.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes while you prep other ingredients.
Quick Cooking Tips
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 4: Stir Frying Vegetables
Choosing the Right Cooking Order
- Start with firmer vegetables like carrots and broccoli. Stir fry for 2–3 minutes.
- Add softer vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, and mushrooms.
Maintaining Crispiness
- Stir fry vegetables over high heat to retain their crunch.
- Avoid overcooking; vegetables should still be vibrant and slightly crisp.
Step 5: Combining Shrimp and Vegetables
Coating with Sauce
- Return cooked shrimp to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Pour in the prepared sauce and toss to coat evenly.
Final Tossing Tips
- Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is well combined.
- Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish.
Serving Suggestions
Shrimp stir fry pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Here are some serving ideas:
- Steamed White Rice or Brown Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative that’s equally satisfying.
- Noodles: Serve over stir-fried noodles like lo mein or soba for a hearty meal.
- Side Salad: Complement the flavors with a light Asian-style cucumber or cabbage salad.
- Spring Rolls: Add a side of crispy spring rolls for an extra treat.
No matter how you serve it, this shrimp stir fry is sure to impress!
Pro Tips for the Best Stir Fry
- Use High Heat: Stir frying is all about quick cooking. High heat helps lock in flavors and keeps the vegetables crisp.
- Prep Everything Before Cooking: Have all ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go. Stir fry cooks fast, so preparation is key.
- Dry Shrimp Before Cooking: Moisture can cause shrimp to steam rather than sear, so pat them dry for better results.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if needed to ensure even cooking and avoid steaming.
- Taste the Sauce First: Adjust seasoning before adding to the stir fry to make sure it’s perfect.
- Add Sesame Oil at the End: This preserves its nutty aroma and flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and shrimp yield the best taste and texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly—just 1–2 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
- Adding Sauce Too Early: The sauce should be added at the end to coat the shrimp and vegetables without making them soggy.
- Skipping Cornstarch in Sauce: Cornstarch thickens the sauce, helping it cling to the ingredients. Don’t skip this step!
- Using Low Heat: Stir fry requires high heat for quick, flavorful results.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Too many ingredients at once can cause steaming instead of frying.
Variations and Customizations
Vegetarian Options
- Replace shrimp with tofu, tempeh, or a medley of mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
- Add more vegetables like zucchini, baby corn, or asparagus for extra nutrients.
Different Protein Choices
- Chicken Stir Fry: Substitute shrimp with diced chicken breast or thigh.
- Beef Stir Fry: Use thinly sliced flank steak marinated in soy sauce and garlic.
- Pork Stir Fry: Opt for pork strips cooked until tender and juicy.
Spicy Shrimp Stir Fry
- Add extra chili flakes, sriracha, or diced jalapenos for a fiery kick.
Sweet and Sour Version
- Add pineapple chunks and a splash of rice vinegar to create a sweet and tangy flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftover shrimp stir fry in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: It’s best to avoid freezing as shrimp and vegetables can lose their texture when thawed.
Reheating
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
Tip: Add a splash of water or soy sauce when reheating to refresh the flavors.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220–250 kcal |
| Protein | 25–30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15–20 g |
| Fat | 8–10 g |
| Fiber | 3–4 g |
| Sodium | 600–800 mg |
Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
FAQs about Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe
1. What ingredients are needed for a shrimp stir fry?
For a basic shrimp stir fry, you will need shrimp (peeled and deveined), vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Optional additions include onions, ginger, and your choice of spices or herbs for extra flavor.
2. How do you prepare shrimp for stir frying?
Ensure your shrimp are thoroughly cleaned, peeled, and deveined. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture. This helps in achieving a good sear and prevents the shrimp from steaming when added to the hot pan.
3. What type of oil should I use for stir frying shrimp?
Use oils with a high smoke point like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils handle high heat well, which is essential for stir frying.
4. How long does it take to cook shrimp in a stir fry?
Shrimp cook quickly, typically taking about 2-3 minutes to become opaque and pink. It’s crucial not to overcook them as they can become tough and rubbery.
5. Can I make shrimp stir fry ahead of time?
Shrimp stir fry is best served fresh as the shrimp are at their most tender and the vegetables remain crisp. However, you can prepare your ingredients ahead of time to speed up the cooking process.
6. Are there any variations to a shrimp stir fry recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different vegetables, such as snap peas, bok choy, or mushrooms. Adding a splash of fish sauce, hoisin sauce, or oyster sauce can also vary the flavor profile of your dish.
7. How can I make my shrimp stir fry spicy?
To add heat to your stir fry, include ingredients like red pepper flakes, chopped fresh chili, or a bit of sriracha or hot sauce mixed into the stir fry sauce.
8. What is the best way to serve shrimp stir fry?
Shrimp stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also top it with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for extra flavor and presentation.
Conclusion
This shrimp stir fry recipe is the ultimate solution for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal. With succulent shrimp, colorful vegetables, and a mouthwatering sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can tweak it to fit your preferences or dietary needs.
Ready to impress your family or guests? Try this recipe today and savor the flavors of a homemade stir fry that rivals any takeout!
