Introduction
Shrimp and broccoli stir fry in garlic sauce is a colorful and nutritious dish that brings together the sweetness of shrimp and the crunch of broccoli. This stir fry not only offers a quick meal option but also satisfies your cravings for bold flavors.
Garlic sauce acts as the star of the dish, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients and providing a perfect balance of savory and aromatic notes. Whether you are cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Shrimp are the main source of protein in this dish, offering a sweet and delicate flavor. They cook quickly, absorbing the flavors of the garlic sauce, making them ideal for stir-frying. - 2 cups broccoli florets
Broccoli adds a vibrant green color, crisp texture, and a wealth of nutrients to the stir fry. Its slight bitterness complements the sweetness of the shrimp perfectly. - 4 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic is the key ingredient that infuses the dish with its robust flavor. It adds depth and aroma, making the garlic sauce truly irresistible. - 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Soy sauce brings a salty umami flavor that enhances the overall taste of the stir fry. It serves as the foundation for the garlic sauce. - 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
This sauce adds a rich and slightly sweet flavor, rounding out the taste profile of the garlic sauce, making it more complex. - 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent for the sauce, giving it a glossy finish that clings well to the shrimp and broccoli. - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Vegetable oil is used to stir-fry the shrimp and broccoli, helping to achieve the right texture and ensuring they do not stick to the pan. - Salt and pepper, to taste
Seasoning with salt and pepper elevates the dish, balancing the flavors and enhancing the overall experience.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Prep the ingredients: Mince garlic, peel and devein shrimp, and chop broccoli.
Starting with well-prepped ingredients is crucial for a seamless cooking experience. Having everything ready allows for quick additions during stir-frying, preventing overcooking and ensuring the flavors meld perfectly.
Step 2: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
Warming the oil effectively is important to achieve a perfect stir fry. It ensures that the shrimp begin cooking immediately upon contact, which helps lock in moisture and creates a pleasing texture. You want the oil hot but not smoking.
Step 3: Add minced garlic to the oil and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sautéing the garlic at this stage releases its oils and aromas, creating a flavorful base for the dish. Be cautious not to burn the garlic, as this can turn it bitter and impact the dish's flavor.
Step 4: Add the shrimp to the wok and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink.
Cooking the shrimp until they are just pink allows them to retain their tender texture. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so monitor the color closely, adjusting your cooking time based on their size.
Step 5: Once the shrimp are cooked, add the broccoli and stir-fry for an additional 2–3 minutes.
Adding the broccoli at this stage allows it to steam slightly while maintaining some crunch. This contributes to the dish’s texture and ensures the broccoli is cooked but still vibrant and fresh.
Step 6: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch together until smooth.
Combining the sauces with cornstarch beforehand ensures the sauce thickens evenly when added to the stir fry. A smooth mixture prevents clumping and guarantees consistent flavor throughout.
Step 7: Pour the sauce mixture over the shrimp and broccoli, stirring well.
This step allows the sauce to envelop the shrimp and broccoli, ensuring each piece is coated. Stir thoroughly, giving the cornstarch time to activate and thicken the sauce, creating an enticing finish.
Step 8: Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjust flavors as needed, and serve immediately.
Final seasoning is essential to enhance the dish’s overall flavor. Adjusting the seasoning allows for a personalized touch, ensuring it meets your preference before serving while the dish is still hot.
The Secret to Perfectly Cooked Shrimp
Choosing the right size shrimp is vital for even cooking. Large shrimp are preferred for this stir fry as they maintain their juiciness while cooking quickly. Always look for shrimp with a firm texture and a fresh, ocean-like smell. Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture, so keep an eye on them while they’re in the pan.
Enhancing the Garlic Flavor
For those who truly love garlic, consider adding more cloves to intensify the flavor. You can also incorporate garlic powder or roasted garlic for a deeper taste. Slicing the garlic instead of mincing can provide a milder garlic flavor, adding another layer of complexity to the dish. Just remember to sauté carefully to prevent burning.
Customize Your Stir Fry
Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition. These additions not only enhance the dish visually but also contribute varying textures and flavors, making your stir fry more delicious and appealing. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as necessary to keep everything perfectly cooked.
FAQs
What if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, simply add a splash of water or extra soy sauce while cooking to loosen it. Stir well until the desired consistency is reached.
How can I prevent the broccoli from getting too soft?
To keep broccoli crisp, add it at the midpoint of the cooking process. Stir-frying it briefly preserves its vibrant color and crunch.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this stir fry?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry to remove excess moisture before stir-frying.
I find this dish bland, what can I do?
To enhance bland flavors, add more soy sauce, a hint of sesame oil, or a splash of vinegar for acidity. Taste as you adjust.
Can I substitute another protein for the shrimp?
Absolutely! Chicken or tofu can be great alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly, ensuring the protein is fully cooked through.
What if I have leftover sauce?
If you have extra sauce, save it in the fridge for up to a week and use it for other dishes, like stir-fried vegetables or as a marinade.
Conclusion
Shrimp and broccoli stir fry in garlic sauce is not just a meal; it's a delightful and nourishing experience. With the right balance of flavors and textures, it revitalizes weeknight dinners.
Whether you follow the recipe exactly or customize it to your liking, it allows for creativity in the kitchen. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor every bite of this delicious dish.
Recipe Card
Delicious Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the ingredients: Mince garlic, peel and devein shrimp, and chop broccoli.
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic to the oil and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the wok and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink.
- Once the shrimp are cooked, add the broccoli and stir-fry for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch together until smooth.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the shrimp and broccoli, stirring well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjust flavors as needed, and serve immediately.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.