Experience the bold flavors of Shrimp Stir Fry, a quick Asian seafood classic. Succulent shrimp, crisp veggies, and aromatic seasonings in a delightful stir-fry sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's perfect with rice, noodles, or as a side.
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients mentioned in the list to make the sauce. Add them to a bowl and mix well. Once the ingredients are thoroughly combined, set the sauce aside for later use.
To Season Shrimp
In a bowl, combine the cleaned shrimp with black pepper, salt, and cornstarch. Be sure to mix thoroughly until the shrimp is evenly coated with the mixture, infusing it with flavor.
To Shallow Fry Shrimp
Begin by heating a frying pan over medium heat and adding oil. Carefully place the shrimp into the pan one by one, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Fry the shrimp for approximately 2 to 3 minutes, or until they turn pink. Be cautious not to overcook the shrimp, as it can become tough and rubbery.
Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the oil and set them aside for later use. Note that while I've used a frying pan for shallow-frying, you can also opt for a wok to create a one-pan dish.
To Make Shrimp Stir Fry
In a hot wok over high heat, add oil. As the oil heats up, add the ginger, garlic, and chili flakes. Sauté this mix until it becomes fragrant, releasing their flavors into the dish.
Add the broccoli and stir-fry it until it reaches that delightful balance of crispiness and tenderness. When it's just right, introduce the bell peppers and stir-fry for about 40 to 50 seconds. Optionally, season the veggies with a pinch of salt for added flavor.
Pour the stir-fry sauce into the wok, ensuring it envelops all the ingredients in a flavorful embrace. Let the sauce gently simmer, and as it does, you'll notice it thickening slightly.
Gently place the shallow fried shrimp into the wok and give it a good stir. Allow the shrimp to mingle with the other ingredients, soaking up the savory flavors of the stir-fry sauce and creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Finally, add fresh spring onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds to elevate color and presentation. When everything is perfectly combined, remove the wok from the heat. Your mouthwatering shrimp stir-fry is ready to enjoy!
To Serve
Serve your shrimp stir-fry hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal. For more pairing ideas, refer to the Serving Suggestions section.
Notes
Create a delicious Shrimp Stir Fry with ease using these helpful tips:
Preparation and Cooking Techniques:
Selecting Shrimp/Prawns: Opt for either fresh or frozen varieties. If frozen, thoroughly thaw them to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor absorption.
Preparation Strategy: As stir-frying is a quick process, prepping all ingredients in advance is crucial. This not only speeds up your cooking but also helps in maintaining the crisp texture of the veggies and the tenderness of the shrimp.
Vegetable Variety: While the recipe uses broccoli and bell peppers, incorporating a range of your favorite vegetables can boost both the nutritional value and the visual appeal of the dish.
Customize the Heat: Tailor the spiciness to your preference. The recipe's default setting is moderately spicy, but adjusting the amounts of chili sauce, flakes, and black pepper lets you control the heat level, making the dish suitable for everyone at the table.
Stir-Frying Technique: High heat is key in stir-frying to achieve the characteristic sear while keeping the veggies crisp and shrimp succulent. Keep the ingredients moving in the pan to avoid burning.
Flavor Balance and Serving:
Sauce Consistency: When preparing the stir-fry sauce, consider the consistency you prefer. Use cornstarch to thicken it if you like a richer, more clingy sauce. Adjust the amount based on how thick or thin you want your sauce.
Shrimp Size and Cooking Time: Choose shrimp that are all roughly the same size for even cooking. Be careful not to overcook them; they should be pink and slightly opaque when done.
Balancing Flavors: Taste as you cook and adjust seasonings as needed. The harmony between sweet, sour, salty, and spicy is crucial in Asian cooking. A little extra dash of salt or sugar can make a big difference.
Cookware Consideration: A wok is ideal for this recipe. If unavailable, a large skillet is a suitable alternative. Choose one that heats evenly and provides enough room for easy stirring, ensuring a well-cooked and flavorful stir-fry.
Serve Hot: Serve the stir fry immediately for the best texture and flavor. If accompanied by rice or noodles, keep those ready by the time stir fry is done to avoid the dish from getting soggy.