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Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry – Fast, Flavorful, and Weeknight-Friendly

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated (optional but recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil (such as canola, avocado, or peanut oil)
  • 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (adds depth; use vegetarian oyster-style sauce if needed)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth (or water)
  • 1–2 teaspoons chili-garlic sauce or sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)

Method
 

  1. Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, broth, chili-garlic sauce, and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Prep the shrimp and broccoli: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cut broccoli into bite-size florets. Have garlic and ginger ready.
  3. Heat the pan: Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil and swirl to coat.
  4. Sear the shrimp: Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until just opaque and lightly golden. Remove to a plate. Do not overcook.
  5. Cook the broccoli: Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the pan. Toss in broccoli and a pinch of salt. Stir-fry 2 minutes. Splash in 2 tablespoons water, cover for 1 minute to steam until crisp-tender.
  6. Add aromatics: Uncover and add garlic and ginger. Stir-fry 30–45 seconds until fragrant. Keep them moving so they don’t burn.
  7. Sauce it up: Stir the sauce again (cornstarch settles), then pour it into the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook 1–2 minutes, stirring, until glossy and slightly thickened.
  8. Finish with shrimp: Return shrimp and any juices to the pan. Toss to coat and warm through, 30–60 seconds. Turn off heat and drizzle in sesame oil.
  9. Serve: Top with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over rice or noodles while hot.