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15-Minute Shrimp Stir-Fry - Fast, Fresh, and Flavorful

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound (450 g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil (canola, avocado, or peanut)
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 small broccoli crown, cut into small florets
  • 1 small carrot, peeled and thinly sliced on the diagonal
  • 1 cup snap peas or snow peas, trimmed
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 2 green onions, sliced (whites and greens separated)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
  • 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or hoisin for a sweeter profile)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
  • 1/3 cup water or low-sodium chicken/vegetable broth
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • Steamed rice, brown rice, or noodles
  • Lime wedges
  • Extra chili sauce for heat

Method
 

  1. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, water, and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside near the stove.
  2. Prep the shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper. Dry shrimp sear better and stay juicy.
  3. Heat the pan: Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil and swirl to coat.
  4. Cook the shrimp: Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until just pink and curled. Transfer to a plate. Do not overcook.
  5. Stir-fry the vegetables: Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the pan. Add broccoli and carrots first. Stir-fry 2 minutes. Add bell pepper, snap peas, and the white parts of the green onions. Stir-fry 2–3 minutes more until crisp-tender.
  6. Add aromatics: Push veggies to the edges. Add garlic and ginger to the center and cook 30 seconds, stirring, until fragrant. Mix into the vegetables.
  7. Sauce it up: Whisk the sauce again and pour it into the pan. Stir constantly for 30–60 seconds until the sauce thickens and turns glossy.
  8. Finish with shrimp: Return shrimp to the pan and toss to coat. Warm through for 30 seconds. Remove from heat.
  9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and the green parts of the green onions. Serve over rice or noodles with lime wedges if you like.