Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry

Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry is a vibrant, delicious dish that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a nutritious and satisfying meal. The combination of tender shrimp and crisp vegetables sautéed in a bold garlic sauce creates a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. This recipe uses pantry staples like soy sauce, brown sugar, and chili sauce to craft a sauce that’s savory, slightly sweet, and with just the right amount of heat. The addition of toasted sesame oil adds a subtle nuttiness, while fresh vegetables like red bell pepper, asparagus, and snow peas contribute a refreshing crunch and vibrant color.

What makes this stir fry especially appealing is how easy it is to prepare without sacrificing flavor. The shrimp cook rapidly, and the sauce comes together in minutes, making this an ideal recipe for those craving a homemade takeout experience at home. Served over rice and garnished with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds, this dish delivers a complete and balanced meal that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick cooking time perfect for busy weeknights.
• Balanced sauce with savory, sweet, and spicy notes.
• Crisp, fresh vegetables add color and nutrition.
• Tender, juicy shrimp that cook perfectly every time.
• Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spice level.

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Ingredients

• Garlic cloves, minced
• Low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
• Light brown sugar
• Toasted sesame oil
• Chili sauce (such as sambal oelek)
• Cornstarch
• Vegetable oil
• Red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• Asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
• Snow peas
• Large raw tail-on shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Cooked rice (optional for serving)
• Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional for garnish)

Variations

Feel free to swap or add vegetables based on your preference or seasonality. Broccoli, snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn make great additions. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili sauce, or swap it for sriracha if preferred. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. To add extra depth, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds into the stir fry or garnish generously before serving. You can also substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, chili sauce, toasted sesame oil, and cornstarch until smooth.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

Add red bell pepper, asparagus, and snow peas to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add shrimp to the same pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.

Step 5: Combine and Thicken

Return vegetables to the pan with the shrimp. Pour the sauce over and stir well. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot over cooked rice, garnished with chopped cilantro and sesame seeds if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use fresh or fully thawed shrimp for best texture.
• Cut vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
• Stir-fry over high heat to get that characteristic crispness.
• Avoid overcooking shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
• Whisk the sauce ingredients thoroughly before adding to avoid lumps.

How to Serve

Serve this garlic shrimp stir fry over steamed jasmine or basmati rice for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of sesame seeds to add freshness and crunch. You can also serve it with cauliflower rice or noodles for a low-carb option. Pair with a light cucumber salad or simple steamed greens to complement the bold flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover shrimp stir fry in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Freezing

Due to the delicate texture of shrimp and vegetables, freezing is not recommended as it can cause sogginess.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Avoid overheating to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
   Yes, but make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
2. What can I substitute for chili sauce?
   You can use sriracha or omit it for a milder dish.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
4. Can I add other vegetables?
   Absolutely—broccoli, mushrooms, or snap peas work great.
5. How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?
   Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, usually 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Can I make this dish vegan?
   Replace shrimp with tofu and use vegan-friendly sauces.
7. What kind of rice pairs best with this?
   Jasmine, basmati, or brown rice are all good options.
8. How do I thicken the sauce?
   The cornstarch in the sauce mixture helps thicken it when cooked.
9. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, just use a larger pan or cook in batches.
10. How spicy is this dish?
    The chili sauce adds moderate heat, but you can adjust or omit it to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that fits perfectly into any busy lifestyle. With tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a balanced savory-sweet-spicy sauce, it’s a meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your schedule. Easy to customize and ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for weeknight dinners or anytime you want a homemade Asian-inspired meal without the fuss.

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