Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe

Name: Shrimp Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 cup chicken stock; 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; salt and ground black pepper to taste; 3 tablespoons sesame oil; 1 (16 ounce) package frozen stir-fry vegetables; 20 uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Stir-Fried Shrimp and Vegetables

Ingredients

1 cup chicken stock
1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon minced garlic
Salt and ground black pepper to taste
3 tablespoons sesame oil
1 (16 ounce) package frozen stir-fry vegetables
20 uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

Directions

Gather all the ingredients.
In a bowl, mix together the chicken stock, soy sauce, cornstarch, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers.
Add the frozen stir-fry vegetables to the skillet. Cook and stir for about 4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
Add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook and stir for about 3 minutes, or until the shrimp begin to turn pink.
Stir in the chicken stock mixture. Continue to cook and stir for about 5 more minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the shrimp and vegetables are evenly coated.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 169
Total Fat: 11g (14% DV)
Saturated Fat: 2g (8% DV)
Cholesterol: 46mg (15% DV)
Sodium: 636mg (28% DV)
Total Carbohydrates: 12g (4% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 2g (9% DV)
Total Sugars: 3g
Protein: 8g (16% DV)
Vitamin C: 20mg (22% DV)
Calcium: 68mg (5% DV)
Iron: 2mg (12% DV)
Potassium: 336mg (7% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe

History and Origin

The stir-fry technique has its roots in China, dating back over 2,000 years. It emerged during the reign of the Han Dynasty, primarily as a way to cook food quickly using a small amount of oil and high heat. Stir frying, or chao () in Chinese, allows the preservation of foods color, texture, and nutritional value. While stir-fry recipes differ across regions, the addition of shrimp is particularly popular in coastal areas where seafood is abundant. Shrimp stir fry became a global favorite thanks to the migration of Chinese cuisine, spreading first to neighboring countries and later worldwide. In modern-day America, shrimp stir fry is commonly enjoyed as a quick, healthy meal.

Regional Variations

Stir fry dishes vary significantly by region. In Southern China, you may find stir-fries that incorporate fermented soybeans, while in the northern parts, dishes often feature heartier vegetables like bok choy and napa cabbage. When shrimp is included, it often comes with a light sauce made from soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. In countries like Thailand and Vietnam, shrimp stir fry may be accompanied by a blend of local herbs, chili peppers, and fish sauce, adding a spicy and aromatic layer to the dish. In contrast, American variations may use a larger variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, and snow peas, often incorporating a more prominent sauce with ingredients like hoisin or oyster sauce.

Difference from Similar Dishes

While shrimp stir fry shares similarities with other stir fry dishes, such as beef or chicken stir fries, the main distinction lies in the type of protein used and the method of cooking. Shrimp cooks very quickly, usually within a few minutes, making shrimp stir fry a quick meal option. Additionally, shrimps natural sweetness complements the savory elements of stir-fry sauces, creating a unique flavor profile compared to beef or chicken. Another key difference is the texture of shrimp, which is tender yet slightly firm, adding a distinct bite to the dish. Compared to other stir-fries, shrimp stir fry also tends to be lighter and more delicate, both in flavor and texture.

Where Shrimp Stir Fry is Usually Served

Shrimp stir fry is a popular dish in many Asian restaurants, particularly those serving Chinese, Thai, and other Southeast Asian cuisines. It is often served as part of a larger meal, accompanied by steamed rice or noodles. In restaurants, shrimp stir fry may be offered as a dinner entre, often with variations to suit regional preferences. At home, it is a common weeknight dinner choice, as its quick to prepare and can be made with frozen shrimp and vegetables. The dish is especially popular in coastal areas where fresh seafood is abundant. In addition, shrimp stir fry is often seen at buffets or catering events, where its colorful appearance and variety of flavors make it an appealing option for large groups.

Interesting Facts About Shrimp Stir Fry

Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein seafood option, making shrimp stir fry a nutritious choice for a balanced meal.
The technique of stir-frying was developed as a means to conserve fuel and time, as the high heat cooks food quickly.
Sesame oil, a key ingredient in shrimp stir fry, is rich in antioxidants and adds a distinctive nutty flavor to the dish.
In some regions, stir-fry dishes are prepared as a single-pan meal, which helps in retaining the natural flavors and nutrients of the ingredients.
Shrimp stir fry is highly customizable. You can adjust the level of spice, add a variety of vegetables, or use different protein sources such as chicken or tofu, making it a versatile dish.

FAQ about Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe

Leftover shrimp stir fry should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, adding a little bit of water or stock to prevent it from drying out.

Yes, you can use fresh shrimp instead of frozen. Make sure to peel and devein them before cooking. Fresh shrimp will cook slightly faster, so be sure to monitor them closely to avoid overcooking.

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can substitute the stir-fry vegetables with whatever you have on hand, such as bell peppers, zucchini, snap peas, or even broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the vegetable's thickness and texture.

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and chop the vegetables. However, it is best to cook the shrimp and vegetables fresh to ensure the best texture. Stir-fries are typically best when served immediately after cooking.

To add some spice to this dish, you can include red pepper flakes, hot chili oil, or fresh sliced chili peppers. Add them to the sauce or directly to the stir-fry as you cook.

Shrimp stir fry pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or even quinoa. You can serve it over white, brown, or jasmine rice for a complete meal.

Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. Just be sure to check the labels of your other ingredients for hidden gluten.

Shrimp stir fry can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in a skillet.

Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian by replacing the shrimp with tofu or tempeh. You can also skip the protein altogether and make it a vegetable stir fry with extra veggies or mushrooms.

If you prefer more sauce, you can double the sauce ingredients. Just be mindful of the consistency; if you make the sauce thicker, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly so it doesn't become too thick or sticky.

Comments

Carolyn Evans

07/10/2023 06:59:10 PM

Simple and delightful. There is ample room for customization in the future. The majority of the ingredients are readily available in the kitchen, which is a significant advantage.

Dennis Harris

12/17/2024 07:10:14 PM

I opted for fresh vegetables including mushrooms and zucchini, and threw in some bean sprouts at the end. Being a fan of spicy food and saucy dishes, I decided to double the sauce recipe and mix in 1 tablespoon of hot chili oil. I will definitely be making this dish over and over again!

Matthew Gonzalez

03/16/2024 04:41:22 PM

As others have mentioned, this recipe provides a solid foundation for your own modifications. I opted for peanut oil to minimize smoke, shortened the vegetable cooking time to 3 minutes, and cooked the shrimp for just 2 minutes. I prepared a separate mixture of cornstarch and water. I combined all the ingredients in the chicken stock and added them to the stir-fry. After heating everything, I added sesame oil, thickened the dish with the starch mixture, and served it immediately. Following the original cooking times would result in overcooked ingredients.

Robert Ramirez

09/17/2023 05:22:30 AM

I prepared this dish today and found it to be quite delicious with a few modifications. Fresh vegetables are essential. I omitted the salt but added 1/4-1/2 tsp of red pepper flakes for a kick. Instead of regular chicken stock, I used reduced sodium chicken stock. To enhance the sauce, I included 2 tbsp of fish sauce. Additionally, I quickly seared the shrimp in the pan with a pinch of garlic and ginger for added flavor. Be cautious not to overcook the shrimp, just cook until it turns slightly white.

Michael Walker

02/14/2024 08:24:38 AM

I prepared this dish tonight, and I've made it several times before. One addition that I highly recommend is adding fresh sea scallops. I typically use about 1/2 pound of scallops, which takes the dish to the next level of deliciousness. To elevate it even further, consider topping it off with fresh chopped basil and a sprinkle of cheese when serving. Overall, it's a fantastic dish!

Kathleen Garcia

03/24/2025 08:41:53 AM

I had a fantastic experience with this recipe, especially because I usually keep frozen stir-fry veggies in my kitchen. I included an inch of freshly grated ginger root and made sure to add the shrimp only 3-4 minutes before the sauce was ready. Such a game-changer!

Steven Moore

09/01/2022 02:56:24 AM

This recipe is very versatile and can be easily customized to suit your preferences. I like to include fresh vegetables such as broccoli, red peppers, mushrooms, and celery. I also love adding pineapple and toasted cashews for an extra burst of flavor. It's a delicious combination that really stands out!

Christopher Nguyen

08/21/2022 11:48:48 AM

I followed the recipe with a twist by adding 1 teaspoon of ground ginger and some chopped onion, which added a nice kick to the dish. I opted for rice noodles, which turned out to be a great choice! Paired it with Costco egg rolls for a delicious dinner. I doubled the recipe as I used plenty of shrimp.

Anna Johnson

04/18/2024 08:34:57 AM

Sauteed sliced mushrooms and diced onions before adding the stir-fry vegetables. This meal is excellent and has been enjoyed by several family members without exception.

Larry Garcia

01/27/2025 06:14:57 PM

The dish was excellent. I included green onions and only used 2 tablespoons of olive oil since I didn't have sesame oil available. I added ginger and red pepper flakes for extra flavor. I paired it with whole grain brown rice, and white wine was my beverage of choice.

Sharon Baker

08/17/2022 06:00:45 AM

I prepare the vegetables by draining them before adding the shrimp.

Rachel Perez

03/03/2025 10:55:28 AM

My husband absolutely adored this product, and he is very selective.

Susan Hernandez

10/10/2024 12:32:01 PM

I haven't tried this recipe yet, but it sounds delicious. However, it's absurd that Marianne gave it a one-star review – she seems to have lost her mind. She has also rated several other recipes poorly for completely nonsensical reasons. Don't criticize something you haven't even tried...

Anthony Rodriguez

12/17/2023 06:02:31 AM

Definitely include hoisin sauce and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes - it's fantastic! This recipe is super simple to make.

Anna Rodriguez

10/16/2023 12:23:08 AM

Extremely tasty when served over rice! Plus, this recipe is super quick and easy to make!

Thomas Jones

03/29/2025 10:37:59 AM

Simple ingredients make this dish easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Gary Hall

05/27/2023 08:31:45 PM

Quick and delicious. The best combination for me!

Nicole Hernandez

07/16/2024 05:31:59 PM

This recipe was fantastic considering the minimal effort it required and the enthusiastic approval from my family! I opted for fresh vegetables since I already had them prepped from a previous event. I will definitely be making this again in the future!

Benjamin Cruz

01/10/2023 07:45:53 AM

Simple and convenient dinner option for busy weekdays. I tossed in some bean sprouts at the last minute - delicious!

Creamy Asparagus and Mushroom Pasta Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe