A vibrant and flavorful dish, this honey garlic shrimp stirfry combines tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a glossy, sweet-savory sauce. Quick to prepare and full of color, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or anytime you crave a satisfying seafood meal. The combination of garlic, honey, soy, and ginger creates a sauce that clings to every bite, while cornstarch ensures the sauce thickens beautifully. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete, wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Proteins
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
Sauce Components
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 3 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to heat preference)
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp cornstarch
Other Ingredients
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp neutral oil (grapeseed, avocado, or canola)
Preparation
Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes. Whisk in cornstarch thoroughly to prevent lumps. The sauce should be smooth and glossy, ready to coat shrimp and vegetables.
Cook the Vegetables
Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add bell pepper and onion slices. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and starting to soften, maintaining a slight crispness.
Add Broccoli
Add broccoli florets to the pan and cook for an additional 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The broccoli should remain vibrant green with lightly charred edges for texture.
Add Butter and Shrimp
Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and allow it to melt, coating the vegetables. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes per side, until just pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to retain a tender, juicy texture.
Add Sauce and Finish
Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the shrimp and vegetables. Toss quickly to ensure everything is coated. Cook for 2 more minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, clinging to each piece. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice.
Tips for the Best Stirfry
- Pat shrimp dry: Removing excess moisture ensures they sear nicely without steaming.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook shrimp in a single layer for even cooking and a good sear.
- Maintain vegetable crunch: Overcooked vegetables lose texture and vibrancy. Quick sautéing keeps them crisp.
- Whisk sauce thoroughly: Cornstarch can clump if not fully dissolved; whisk until smooth before adding to the pan.
- Make ahead: Vegetables can be prepped, and the sauce mixed in advance to cut down cooking time on busy nights.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water to restore the sauce’s consistency. Avoid microwaving for best texture.
- Freezing: Not recommended for shrimp as it can become rubbery, but vegetables and sauce can be frozen separately for later use.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Swap broccoli for sugar snap peas, green beans, or asparagus.
- Use chicken or firm tofu instead of shrimp; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Substitute honey with pure maple syrup or agave nectar.
- For gluten-free, replace soy sauce with tamari.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over jasmine, basmati, or brown rice to soak up the sauce.
- Noodles or cauliflower rice are great alternatives for lower-carb options.
- Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime for extra freshness.
Cultural Context
Stirfry dishes have deep roots in Asian home cooking traditions, emphasizing speed, freshness, and vibrant flavors. The honey garlic combination is popular in Chinese-American cuisine, offering a balance of sweetness and savory depth that appeals to a wide audience. Quick-cooked vegetables retain nutrients, while the sauce ensures every bite is flavorful, making it a practical and satisfying weeknight meal.
Pro Tips
- Cook shrimp last to prevent overcooking; they require only a few minutes.
- Toss vegetables constantly to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Adjust sweetness and heat to taste by varying honey and red pepper flakes.
- For an extra layer of flavor, finish with a drizzle of toasted sesame oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which vegetables work best in honey garlic shrimp stirfry?
Broccoli, red bell pepper, and onions offer a balance of color, texture, and sweetness. Other vegetables like snap peas or green beans are excellent substitutes.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Cornstarch dissolved in the sauce before cooking allows it to thicken as it heats, creating a glossy coating over shrimp and vegetables.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw fully and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture and ensure proper searing.
What should I serve with this stirfry?
Steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice are ideal bases to complement the sauce and vegetables.
How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?
Cook for about 2 minutes per side until just pink and opaque. Remove from heat immediately to maintain tenderness.
This honey garlic shrimp stirfry is a quick, flavorful, and colorful meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining. Juicy shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a glossy sweet-savory sauce make it a favorite for family dinners and meal prep alike.