Spicy Honey-Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli Stir-Fry is my go-to weeknight meal when I crave something quick, vibrant, and bursting with flavor. This dish brings together succulent shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a sweet-spicy sauce that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re cooking for family or feeding a craving after a long day, this stir-fry checks all the boxes: it’s simple, fast, and absolutely delicious.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe isn’t just about great taste; it’s a perfect harmony of flavors and convenience. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. It’s not only budget-friendly, but it’s also packed with protein and veggies, making for a balanced meal that even the little ones will enjoy.
A satisfied customer recently raved about it:
“I made this for dinner last night, and it was a hit! The sauce was divine, and I loved how quick it came together. Perfect for my weeknight cooking!”
Step-by-step overview
Ready to dive in? Here’s a quick breakdown: first, you’ll whisk together a flavorful sauce, then cook the shrimp until they’re perfectly pink. After that, it’s all about stir-frying the vegetables until they are tender-crisp before combining everything for the final flourish. This dish comes together seamlessly, resulting in a meal that’s both impressive and satisfying.
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What you’ll need
For this delightful stir-fry, gather these ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt & pepper
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1–2 tsp chili flakes or chili paste (adjust based on your spice preference)
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp water
Feel free to swap the shrimp for chicken or tofu if you prefer a different protein!
Directions to follow
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Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar or lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes. Set aside.
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Cook the Shrimp: Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for about 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
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Sauté Veggies: In the same pan, toss in the broccoli, onion, and red bell pepper. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until the veggies are tender yet still crisp.
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Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the sautéed veggies and let it simmer for 1 minute.
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Thicken: Combine the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Add this to the pan, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
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Finish: Return the shrimp to the pan, tossing to coat everything well. Cook for an additional 1 minute, then serve hot.
Best ways to enjoy it
This stir-fry is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the dining experience by serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or tender noodles. For a fresh touch, consider garnishing with sesame seeds or freshly chopped green onions. Additionally, a side of steamed jasmine rice or a crunchy cucumber salad complements the dish beautifully.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftover Spicy Honey-Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli Stir-Fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, it’s best to do so in a skillet on low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. You can also freeze leftovers for up to a month; just be mindful that the texture of the shrimp may change slightly upon thawing.
Helpful cooking tips
- Prep your ingredients: Having everything ready to go will make your cooking process much smoother.
- Use high heat for stir-frying: This helps to achieve that nice char and crispiness in your veggies.
- Adjust the spice level: If you’re unsure about the heat, start with less chili flakes or paste and adjust according to your taste.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Try adding some chopped cashews or peanuts for a delightful crunch. Alternatively, experimenting with different vegetables like snap peas or bell peppers of various colors can add both flair and flavor to your stir-fry. You can also change up the sauce by swapping honey for maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Common questions
What is the prep time for this recipe?
The total prep time is about 10 minutes, with a cook time of roughly 10–15 minutes.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them in advance and pat them dry before cooking.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, tamari is a great substitute. Coconut aminos are another fantastic alternative if you want to lower the sodium content.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! This recipe is very forgiving—feel free to include any of your favorite stir-fry vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or even snow peas for added color and nutrition.
