Imagine a sizzling pan of succulent shrimp, perfectly caramelized peppers, and onions dancing with aromatic garlic – all ready in less time than it takes to order takeout! This Asian-inspired Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry is about to become your new weeknight hero, promising restaurant-level flavor with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking to impress, or simply craving a quick and delicious meal, this recipe will transform your dinner game in just 25 magical minutes.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by thoroughly washing the shrimp, bell pepper, and onion. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure proper searing.
- Season shrimp with salt and pepper, ensuring even coating. Set aside while preparing other ingredients.
- Slice bell pepper and onion into uniform thin strips, approximately 1/4 inch wide to ensure even cooking.
- Mince garlic cloves finely, releasing their aromatic oils and maximizing flavor potential.
- Heat olive oil in a large wok or wide skillet over medium-high heat until oil shimmers and is almost smoking.
- Add sliced onions and bell peppers first, stir-frying for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and develop slight caramelization.
- Push vegetables to one side of the pan, creating space to sear shrimp.
- Add minced garlic to the empty side of the pan, stirring quickly to prevent burning, about 30 seconds.
- Add seasoned shrimp to the pan, spreading them in a single layer to ensure proper browning.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and develop light golden edges.
- Pour soy sauce over the entire mixture, stirring to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to slightly reduce.
- Remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking shrimp, which can become tough and rubbery.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or soy sauce if needed.
- Transfer to a serving platter, ensuring an even distribution of shrimp, peppers, and onions.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
Tips
- Pat your shrimp completely dry before cooking to achieve that perfect golden sear – moisture is the enemy of crispy, beautifully caramelized seafood.
- Use a wok or wide skillet to ensure even heat distribution and plenty of room for ingredients to cook without steaming.
- Always cook vegetables first, then shrimp, to prevent overcooking and maintain optimal texture.
- Don't walk away from the pan! Stir-frying is a quick cooking method that requires constant attention.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the shrimp at their most tender and flavorful state.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 180mg
