Shrimp and broccoli is a beloved dish in many households and Asian restaurants alike, especially in Chinese-American cuisine. This quick and savory stir-fry combines succulent shrimp with crisp-tender broccoli in a light, flavorful sauce that hits all the right notes—umami, salty, slightly sweet, and aromatic.
Its popularity comes from how effortlessly it balances taste and nutrition. With high-protein shrimp and fiber-rich broccoli, it’s a go-to for health-conscious foodies and busy cooks seeking a one-pan wonder. Whether you’re making it for a quick weekday dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is as rewarding to cook as it is to eat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
-
1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
-
3 cups broccoli florets
-
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for added flavor)
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
For the Sauce:
-
3 tablespoons soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
-
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, or use hoisin sauce for a vegetarian option)
-
1 tablespoon cornstarch
-
1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
-
1/2 cup water or chicken broth
Optional Toppings:
-
Sesame seeds
-
Chopped green onions
-
Red pepper flakes (for spice lovers)
Substitutions:
-
Shrimp: Can be substituted with tofu, chicken breast, or mushrooms for vegetarian/vegan versions.
-
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium or coconut aminos for a healthier twist.
-
Honey: Swap with maple syrup or agave for vegan sweetener.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
-
Prep the Ingredients:
-
Wash and chop broccoli into bite-sized florets.
-
Pat shrimp dry with a paper towel.
-
Mix all sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
-
-
Cook the Broccoli:
-
Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
-
Add broccoli and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. Remove from pan.
-
-
Sauté the Shrimp:
-
Add the remaining oil and toss in garlic and ginger. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
-
-
Combine and Simmer:
-
Return broccoli to the pan.
-
Pour the sauce over the shrimp and broccoli, stirring to coat.
-
Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
-
-
Serve Immediately:
-
Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions, if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or as-is for a low-carb option.
-
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
-
Overcooking shrimp makes them rubbery. Cook just until they turn pink.
-
Crowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of stir-frying—cook in batches if necessary.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
-
Marinate the shrimp in a bit of soy sauce and cornstarch for 10 minutes before cooking for an extra velvety texture.
-
Blanch the broccoli for 30 seconds in boiling water before stir-frying to preserve bright color and tenderness.
-
Use a wok for better heat distribution and authentic stir-fry flavor.
-
Prep everything first (mise en place)—this recipe moves quickly once you start cooking.
Variations and Customizations
-
Vegetarian: Replace shrimp with tofu or tempeh. Use hoisin or mushroom sauce instead of oyster sauce.
-
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all sauces used are gluten-free.
-
Low-Carb/Keto: Serve over cauliflower rice or zoodles.
-
Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or chili paste to the sauce.
-
Fusion Style: Add coconut milk and curry powder for a Thai-inspired version.
Serving Suggestions
-
Serve over: Jasmine rice, brown rice, quinoa, or soba noodles.
-
Garnishes: Sesame seeds, sliced green onions, lime wedges, or chopped cilantro.
-
Pair With: Miso soup, spring rolls, or a crisp cucumber salad.
-
Beverage Pairing: Green tea, white wine, or a citrusy sparkling water.
Nutritional Information (Per serving, approx. 4 servings):
-
Calories: 280
-
Protein: 28g
-
Carbohydrates: 15g
-
Fat: 12g
-
Fiber: 3g
-
Sodium: 720mg
Note: Values may vary based on exact ingredients and serving sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking shrimp.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Use a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short intervals. Add a splash of water to refresh the sauce.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
Hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a bit of sugar will work.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, snow peas, mushrooms, or carrots go well in this dish.
Closing Thoughts
Shrimp and broccoli is more than just a takeout staple—it’s a vibrant, nutritious meal you can whip up at home in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, this dish offers flexibility, flavor, and ease.
Give it a try and make it your own! Feel free to share your creations, questions, or favorite twists on this classic in the comments or on social media. Happy cooking!
