Introduction
There’s something incredibly delightful about a quick and satisfying stir-fry, and this shrimp stir fry is no exception. With vibrant, fresh vegetables and succulent shrimp, this dish is bursting with flavor and comes together in just about 20 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, it’s a meal that will transport you to a bustling Asian night market with every bite!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant, filling your kitchen with a lovely aroma.
- Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for 2-3 minutes until they turn a beautiful pink and opaque. This is where the magic starts to happen!
- Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, toss in the bell pepper, snap peas, julienned carrot, and broccoli florets. Stir-fry the vibrant medley for about 4-5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to remain tender-crisp.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix them with the colorful veggies.
- Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, tossing everything together to ensure each ingredient is beautifully coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, making sure to taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance.
- Serve immediately over a fluffy bed of cooked rice or your favorite noodles. Dive right in!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to substitute the shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option!
- To add a hint of heat, include some red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce while stir-frying.
- For an even more vibrant dish, add other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or asparagus.
Cooking Techniques
Stir-frying is a quick cooking method that retains the nutrients and beautiful colors of vegetables while adding distinct flavors. Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding ingredients, as this helps to achieve that coveted crispy texture without steaming the food. Always chop your vegetables uniformly to ensure they cook at the same rate, and have all your ingredients prepped before starting the cooking process.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While stir fry is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and chop the vegetables in advance. Just toss them together right before serving!
What can I serve with this stir fry?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or even quinoa for a healthy alternative. A side of spring rolls or dumplings can also complement the meal perfectly.
Conclusion
This shrimp stir fry is not just quick and easy to make; it’s a celebration of color, texture, and flavor that brings joy to the dining table. With its rich array of ingredients and delightful sauces, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. So grab your skillet and let the cooking adventure begin!