30-Minute Spicy Shrimp Stir Fry: A Quick and Flavorful Dinner
This flavorful shrimp stir fry features succulent shrimp sautéed with vibrant vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, all tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce made with soy sauce, honey, sriracha, and ginger. The dish is thickened with cornstarch for a glossy finish and served over a bed of fragrant rice. Garnished with sesame seeds and fresh herbs, it's a delicious, customizable meal.
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb 450g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil for added flavor
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 medium carrot julienned
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1- inch piece of ginger grated
- 2 green onions chopped
- 1/4 cup soy sauce low sodium preferred
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sriracha adjust to taste
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes optional for extra heat
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water for thickening
- 1 tsp sesame seeds for garnish
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish optional
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice or brown rice
- Lime wedges optional, for extra zest
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
- Before you start cooking, ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready. Slice the bell peppers, julienne the carrots, chop the green onions, and mince the garlic and ginger. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Make the Stir Fry Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), sriracha, red pepper flakes, and rice vinegar. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in the cornstarch slurry and set it aside.
Cook the Shrimp
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
Stir Fry the Vegetables
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in the garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, and cook for 4-5 minutes until they start to soften but remain slightly crisp.
Combine Everything
- Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Let it cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
Garnish & Serve
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot over a bed of jasmine or brown rice, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra zing.
Notes
Adjust the Spice Level: Reduce or increase the sriracha and red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
Use Different Proteins: Swap shrimp for chicken, tofu, or beef if desired.
Add More Crunch: Include water chestnuts, snap peas, or cashews for extra texture.
Make It Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of regular rice.