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The BEST Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry - Fast, Flavorful, and Fresh

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

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil (avocado, canola, or peanut oil)
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 small carrot, thinly sliced on the bias
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely minced or grated
  • 3 green onions, sliced (whites and greens separated)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes or to taste (optional)
  • Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (or hoisin for a sweeter note)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch (for thickening)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

Method
 

  1. Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, chicken broth, cornstarch, and sesame oil until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Pat the shrimp dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them sear instead of steam. Lightly season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  3. Preheat your pan: Set a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil and let it get hot until shimmering.
  4. Sear the shrimp: Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until just opaque and lightly golden. Transfer to a plate. Do not overcook.
  5. Cook the veggies: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Toss in broccoli and carrots. Stir-fry 2–3 minutes, then add bell pepper and the white parts of the green onions. Cook another 2 minutes until crisp-tender.
  6. Add aromatics: Push veggies to the sides. Add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to the center. Stir 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  7. Sauce it up: Whisk the sauce again (cornstarch settles), then pour it into the pan. Stir constantly 30–60 seconds as it thickens and turns glossy.
  8. Finish with shrimp: Return shrimp and any juices to the pan. Toss to coat and warm through, about 30–60 seconds. Remove from heat.
  9. Garnish and serve: Top with green onion tops and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over rice or noodles with a squeeze of lime if you like a bright finish.