Are you craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner? Look no further! This shrimp with broccoli recipe offers a delightful taste of authentic Chinese cuisine without the complicated steps. It's a perfect weeknight meal, ready in under 30 minutes, and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. This easy recipe is ideal for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned chefs. Let's dive into this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by prepping your ingredients. Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly and set aside. Peel and devein the shrimp, ensuring they are completely clean. Mince the garlic and ginger. Measure out all your sauces and spices. This simple step ensures a smooth and efficient cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli and Aromatics
In the same pan, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until they begin to tenderize but still retain a slight crispness.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), cornstarch, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Pour the sauce over the broccoli and stir to coat evenly. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens. Add the cooked shrimp back to the pan and toss gently to combine.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy your homemade delicious shrimp with broccoli!
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking the shrimp and broccoli. This ensures even cooking and prevents steaming.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas.
- Use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different protein source.
- Add a splash of rice wine vinegar for extra tanginess.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Fat: 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
This easy and healthy shrimp with broccoli recipe is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas that don’t compromise on taste or nutrition. It's a great addition to your collection of best recipes for delicious and satisfying meals. Enjoy!