Shrimp and Broccoli
Shrimp and Broccoli is a classic dish that beautifully combines the succulent flavors of shrimp with the crisp texture of broccoli, all coated in a savory sauce that ties the elements together.
This dish is often associated with Asian cuisine, particularly in stir-fries, and offers a delightful balance of protein, fiber, and flavor.
Not only is it a delicious meal, but it’s also incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. With its bright colors and vibrant flavors, Shrimp and Broccoli is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s explore how to create this delectable dish step by step!
Ingredients:
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head of broccoli)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional for added color)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
How to Make Shrimp and Broccoli:
Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by preparing all your ingredients. Peel and devein the shrimp, and set them aside. Wash and cut the broccoli into florets, ensuring they are all roughly the same size for even cooking. If you’re using red bell pepper, slice it into thin strips. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, water, honey (or brown sugar), sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix until the cornstarch is fully dissolved, and set the sauce aside.
Cook the Broccoli:
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. If desired, add a splash of water to help steam the broccoli for a minute. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Combine the Ingredients:
Once the shrimp are cooked, return the broccoli to the skillet. Pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and broccoli, stirring to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through. If using, add the sliced red bell pepper during this step for added color and flavor.
Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve the Shrimp and Broccoli hot, over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Chef’s Note: This Shrimp and Broccoli recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding other vegetables such as snap peas, carrots, or bok choy. You can also switch out the shrimp for other proteins like chicken, tofu, or beef, depending on your preference.
For a meal prep option, this dish can be made in advance and stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
If you want to enhance the flavor, consider marinating the shrimp in a bit of soy sauce and ginger for 15-30 minutes before cooking. Additionally, if you enjoy a spicy kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Vitamin A: 25% of Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 90% of DV
- Calcium: 6% of DV
- Iron: 10% of DV
Shrimp and Broccoli is not only a flavorful dish but also a nutritious choice, offering lean protein from the shrimp and an abundance of vitamins and minerals from the broccoli. The dish is low in calories and high in fiber, making it suitable for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
As you enjoy your Shrimp and Broccoli, savor the vibrant flavors and appreciate the simplicity of the ingredients. This dish showcases how easy it can be to prepare a healthy, delicious meal that brings a taste of Asian cuisine to your table. Happy cooking!
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