Step 2: Heat the Wok or Skillet
Use a large wok or a heavy-bottomed skillet. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. A hot pan ensures proper searing.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Shrimp
Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side or until just pink. Remove and set aside. Don’t overcook—shrimp become rubbery quickly.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add garlic and stir for about 20 seconds (don’t burn it). Toss in the carrots and cook for 2 minutes, then add the broccoli. Stir-fry everything together for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine and Sauce
Return the shrimp to the pan. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and black pepper. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Add cornstarch slurry if you want a thicker sauce. Cook for 1 more minute.
Step 6: Finish with Sesame Oil
Turn off the heat and drizzle with sesame oil. Give it a final toss.
Serving Suggestions
Serve immediately over:
- Steamed Jasmine or Basmati Rice
- Brown Rice for a healthier option
- Cauliflower Rice or Zoodles for low-carb variations
- Lo Mein Noodles for a more indulgent twist
Garnish with:
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
- Crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
Variations & Customizations
Spicy Shrimp & Broccoli
Add 1 teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or sriracha with the sauce ingredients.
Garlic-Lovers’ Version
Double the amount of minced garlic and add thinly sliced garlic chips for texture.
Lemon-Ginger Twist
Add 1 tsp grated ginger and a splash of lemon juice for a brighter, citrusy flavor.
Honey-Garlic Sauce
Add 1 tablespoon of honey for a sweet-and-savory glaze.
Vegetarian Version
Replace shrimp with tofu cubes or tempeh. Use mushroom-based oyster sauce.
Low-Sodium Version
Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce oyster sauce. Increase herbs and spices.
Tips for Stir-Fry Success
- Prep Everything First: Stir-frying happens fast, so have all ingredients chopped and ready.
- Use High Heat: A hot wok or skillet sears quickly and enhances flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Work in batches if necessary to avoid steaming.
- Dry Your Ingredients: Excess moisture = steaming, not stir-frying.
- Rest the Shrimp: Let cooked shrimp rest briefly while veggies cook to avoid overcooking.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Make-Ahead Options:
- Peel and devein shrimp in advance and refrigerate (up to 24 hours).
- Blanch and prep vegetables ahead.
- Mix sauce ingredients in a jar and store chilled.
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet to preserve texture.
Freezing:
- Not recommended for fully assembled dish.
- Shrimp and sauce can be pre-frozen separately and combined upon cooking.
Nutritional Benefits
Shrimp and broccoli are both powerhouses of nutrition:
- Shrimp: Low in calories, high in protein, rich in selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3s.
- Broccoli: Packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
This dish provides a balanced meal with lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats—especially when prepared with minimal oil and served with whole grains.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Thaw under cold running water and pat dry thoroughly.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but the texture may be softer. Avoid overcooking and skip blanching.
Is oyster sauce vegetarian?
Traditional oyster sauce is not. Use mushroom sauce as a substitute.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just be sure not to overcrowd the pan. Stir-fry in batches.
How do I know when shrimp are done?
They’ll turn pink and curl into a loose “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp form a tight “O”.
Conclusion
Stir-fried shrimp and broccoli is more than just a recipe—it’s a blueprint for healthy, flavorful, and fast meals. By mastering a few simple techniques and understanding ingredient functions, you can make this dish your own and serve it with confidence any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just whipping up a quick dinner for one, this stir-fry is versatile, nourishing, and endlessly customizable.
With its combination of vibrant vegetables, tender shrimp, and a savory sauce, this classic recipe deserves a regular spot in your dinner rotation. Happy cooking!
