If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances tender shrimp, crisp broccoli, and a deeply savory garlic sauce, you’re about to find your new favorite. This Shrimp with Broccoli in Garlic Sauce Recipe blends simple ingredients in a way that bursts with flavor and keeps things light yet satisfying. It’s a quick, colorful, and delicious meal that brings restaurant-quality Asian-inspired flavors right to your kitchen without any fuss. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will become a regular on your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely essential. Each one plays a key role in creating that perfect harmony of taste, texture, and vivid color, making this dish as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
- 1 lb large shrimp: Peeled and deveined for convenience and quick cooking, shrimp provide lean protein with a sweet and succulent flavor.
- 3 cups broccoli florets: Bright green and slightly crunchy, broccoli brings freshness, fiber, and vibrant color to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: A neutral oil perfect for high-heat cooking without overpowering flavors.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): The star of the sauce, adding that irresistible aromatic punch.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced): Adds warmth and a subtle, fresh zing that complements garlic beautifully.
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce: Provides the salty, umami foundation of the sauce with control over sodium content.
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Adds a rich, slightly sweet depth that elevates the overall flavor complexity.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Offers a gentle tang that balances the savory notes perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to coat every bite with luscious goodness.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps create the perfect sauce consistency when mixed with the other ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: A finishing touch that adds a nutty aroma and flavor.
- Cooked white or brown rice: The ideal base to soak up every bit of the garlicky sauce and complement the shrimp and broccoli.
How to Make Shrimp with Broccoli in Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Sauce
Start by whisking together the low-sodium soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, water, and sesame oil in a small bowl. This mixture is the heart of the dish, transforming simple shrimp and broccoli into something truly crave-worthy with its perfectly balanced sweet, savory, tangy, and nutty flavors.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Place the shrimp in the pan and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque but still retain their juicy tenderness. Remove them from the skillet and set aside; this step ensures the shrimp don’t overcook while you work on the veggies.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic, Ginger, and Broccoli
In the same skillet, add a splash more oil if needed, then toss in the minced garlic and fresh ginger. Let them cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant—that intoxicating aroma is what makes this dish so special. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes, just until they turn bright green and slightly tender. This quick cooking keeps the broccoli crisp, giving the dish excellent texture contrast.
Step 4: Combine and Thicken
Return the shrimp to the pan with the broccoli. Pour in the garlic sauce you prepared earlier. Stir everything constantly to ensure the sauce evenly thickens and coats each piece of shrimp and broccoli beautifully. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes. The result is a glossy, flavorful dish that’s ready to be served immediately.
How to Serve Shrimp with Broccoli in Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor even further, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or thinly sliced green onions on top just before serving. These touches add a bit of crunch and a pop of color that makes the dish feel extra special and fresh.
Side Dishes
This dish shines when paired with steamed white or brown rice, which soaks up the delicious garlic sauce perfectly. You can also serve it alongside a simple Asian-style cucumber salad or some steamed dumplings for a fuller meal that’s well balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more festive or casual occasion, serve this Shrimp with Broccoli in Garlic Sauce Recipe family-style on a big platter, letting everyone help themselves. Alternatively, spoon the stir-fry into lettuce cups for a light, handheld option that’s fun and fresh. Either way, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover shrimp and broccoli in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The shrimp remains tender, and the sauce keeps its wonderful flavor when reheated properly.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to a month. Use a freezer-safe container, and keep in mind that broccoli might lose some firmness upon thawing. It’s perfect for busy nights when you need a quick and tasty meal.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir frequently to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery and to warm everything evenly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the sauce’s consistency.
What if I don’t have oyster sauce?
If you’re out of oyster sauce, you can substitute with hoisin sauce or a little extra soy sauce mixed with a teaspoon of sugar for a similar sweetness and depth.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots all make great additions for more color, crunch, and nutrition without overpowering the shrimp and broccoli.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce alternatives. Always check the labels to be sure your ingredients fit your dietary needs.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mild by default, focusing on garlic and umami flavors, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil if you love a little heat in your meals.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp with Broccoli in Garlic Sauce Recipe is one of those gems that’s as quick to prepare as it is delicious to eat. It brings together fresh ingredients and bold flavors in a way that never fails to satisfy. Whether you need a weekday dinner or something to impress your friends, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and see how easily you can bring the taste of your favorite Asian-inspired dish home!
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Shrimp with Broccoli in Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Shrimp with Broccoli in Garlic Sauce is a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired stir-fry dish featuring tender shrimp and crisp broccoli florets coated in a savory garlic sauce. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, it’s served hot over rice for a satisfying meal packed with protein and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Seafood and Vegetables
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 3 cups broccoli florets
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced)
- Cooked white or brown rice for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, water, and sesame oil until smooth. Set this garlic sauce mixture aside for later use.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add a splash more vegetable oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender but still crisp.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour in the prepared garlic sauce and stir continuously for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the shrimp and broccoli.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the shrimp and broccoli hot over cooked white or brown rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can steam the broccoli for 1 to 2 minutes before stir-frying if you prefer a softer texture.
- Add red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce or during cooking for a spicy kick.
- Sliced bell peppers can be added with the broccoli for additional color and flavor.
- Use gluten-free soy and oyster sauces to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.
