If you’re craving a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that comes together in a flash, look no further than this Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry. The combination of juicy shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce makes for a delightful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home. Plus, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to customize based on what you have on hand. Let’s dive into why cooks rave about this recipe and how you can whip it up in no time!

Why Cooks Rave About It

Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry is a favorite among food lovers for several reasons:

Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners.
Flavor Explosion: With the fragrant garlic, savory soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness, your taste buds will be dancing.
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to fit your preference.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein, this stir-fry is as nutritious as it is delicious.

What Goes Into Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry

This Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry requires a handful of ingredients that you might already have in your pantry and fridge. Here’s what you’ll need:

6 cloves garlic, peeled and very finely minced
1 cup lite soy sauce
1 cup water
3 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed (or to taste)
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 tablespoon chili sauce, or more to taste for more spiciness*
1 tablespoon cornstarch
3 tablespoons oil (peanut, vegetable, or olive oil)
1 fresh red bell pepper, seeded and thinly sliced vertically
1 ½ cups raw broccoli florets, do not use frozen
1 cup fresh snow peas
1 small baby bok choy, sliced vertically into quarters
2 pounds large raw shrimp with tails on, peeled and deveined**
Sesame seeds, green onions, cilantro, etc.; optional for garnishing

Prep & Cook Tools

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following tools before you start:

Wok or Large Skillet: A spacious cooking surface is key for stir-frying.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient quantities.
Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Essential for tossing the ingredients as they cook.
Knife and Cutting Board: To prep your vegetables and shrimp.

Stepwise Method: Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a delicious Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry.

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the lite soy sauce, water, light brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, chili sauce, and cornstarch until well combined. Set this sauce aside as we’ll use it to flavor our stir-fry.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large wok or skillet, heat the 3 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, it’s time to add in the garlic.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Immediately add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the pan. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the sliced red bell pepper, broccoli florets, snow peas, and bok choy. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked shrimp to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce.

Step 7: Cook Until Thickened

Continue to stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the shrimp and vegetables beautifully.

Step 8: Serve

Remove the stir-fry from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or cilantro if desired. Enjoy your Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Tailor It to Your Diet

This Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some ways you can tailor it to fit different dietary needs:

Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Vegetarian: Substitute shrimp with tofu or tempeh, and adjust cooking times accordingly.
Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or skip the rice altogether.
Spicy: Adjust the amount of chili sauce to your taste, or add fresh chili peppers for an extra kick.

Insider Tips

For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality shrimp. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a slight ocean scent.
Be sure to prep all your ingredients before you start cooking, as stir-frying goes quickly!
If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the amount of cornstarch slightly.
Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms based on your preferences and what you have available.

How to Store & Reheat

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the stir-fry in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

Reader Q&A

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

If you’re looking for a soy sauce alternative, consider using coconut aminos or a homemade soy sauce substitute made with vegetable broth and some spices.

Is there a vegetarian version of this stir-fry?

Absolutely! You can replace the shrimp with tofu or seitan, and the dish will still be delicious and satisfying.

Can I make this ahead of time?

While stir-fries are best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients in advance and store them separately until you’re ready to cook.

Because You Liked This

Hungry for More?

If this Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry has ignited your culinary passion, there’s plenty more where that came from! Explore a variety of delicious recipes that will satisfy your cravings and inspire your cooking adventures.

With its bright flavors, colorful veggies, and succulent shrimp, this Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re treating yourself to a quick dinner or impressing guests, this dish is a winner. Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family; they’ll love joining you on this flavor journey!