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Spicy Shrimp & Broccoli Stir-Fry - Quick, Fresh, and Full of Flavor

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 medium head), cut into bite-size pieces
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil (avocado, canola, or peanut oil)
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 3 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
  • 1 red chili or 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional for extra heat
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or fish sauce for a punchier, saltier finish)
  • 1–2 tablespoons chili-garlic sauce or sambal oelek (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
  • 1/3 cup water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • Cooked jasmine rice, brown rice, or rice noodles
  • Lime wedges and sesame seeds, optional

Method
 

  1. Whisk the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, oyster sauce, chili-garlic sauce, honey, rice vinegar, water, and cornstarch until smooth. Stir in sesame oil and set aside.
  2. Prep the shrimp and broccoli: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt. Cut broccoli into even florets to ensure quick, even cooking.
  3. Blanch or steam (optional but helpful): For extra crisp-tender broccoli, briefly steam or blanch florets for 1–2 minutes, then drain well. This step keeps the stir-fry fast and vibrant.
  4. Heat the pan: Set a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil and swirl to coat.
  5. Sear 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; they’ll finish in the sauce.
  6. Stir-fry the aromatics: Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Add garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the green onions (plus chopped chili if using). Stir-fry 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Cook the broccoli: Add broccoli and a splash of water. Stir-fry 2–3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Keep it moving so it doesn’t scorch.
  8. Add the sauce: Whisk the sauce again, then pour into the pan. Stir as it bubbles and thickens, about 1 minute.
  9. Finish with shrimp: Return shrimp to the pan and toss to coat. Cook 30–60 seconds until shrimp are just cooked through and the sauce is glossy.
  10. Serve: Remove from heat. Top with green onion tops and sesame seeds. Serve over hot rice or noodles with lime wedges.