Description
This Shrimp and Broccoli recipe is a quick and flavorful stir-fry dish that balances tender shrimps and crisp broccoli florets in a glossy, savory sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, it combines Asian-inspired flavors with simple ingredients for a satisfying meal in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1 pound shrimps, peeled and deveined (large or jumbo preferred)
- 1 teaspoon vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Sauce
- ¾ cup water
- 2½ tablespoons regular soy sauce
- 1½ tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon dark soy sauce (optional for color)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Vegetables
- 1 pound broccoli, cut into desired size florets
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced (about 2-3 cloves)
- 1 tablespoon ginger, peeled and minced (about 1 inch knob)
Others
- Oil, as needed for cooking (neutral oil such as vegetable or canola)
Instructions
- Marinate the shrimps: In a bowl, combine the shrimps with the salt and vinegar. Mix well and set aside to marinate while preparing the other ingredients.
- Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together water, soy sauce, sugar, chicken bouillon powder, dark soy sauce, and cornstarch until no lumps remain. Then whisk in the sesame oil. Set the sauce mixture aside until needed.
- Blanch the broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 30 seconds to 2 minutes depending on your preferred tenderness. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Sear the shrimps: Heat enough oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat to coat the bottom. When the oil is hot, arrange the shrimps in the pan without overcrowding. Sear them for about 2 minutes per side until they turn vibrant orange and golden brown. Remove the shrimps and set aside. Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
- Stir-fry aromatics: In the same pan, add about a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger and stir-fry for 15 to 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the sauce: Give the prepared sauce a quick stir and pour it into the pan. Bring it to a simmer while stirring frequently. The sauce will thicken and become glossy. If it starts to get too thick or stick, reduce the heat to medium and stir constantly to prevent burning.
- Combine shrimps and broccoli: Reduce heat to low. Add the seared shrimps back into the pan and stir to coat them with the sauce. Then add the blanched broccoli and mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve: Enjoy the shrimp and broccoli hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice, fried rice, or lo mein noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the pan while searing the shrimps to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Blanch the broccoli just until tender-crisp to maintain its bright color and crunch.
- Chicken bouillon powder and dark soy sauce are optional but add depth of flavor and color to the sauce.
- If desired, substitute regular soy sauce with low-sodium soy sauce for a lower sodium option.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.