Teriyaki Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe
If you’re craving a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal, teriyaki shrimp stir fry is the perfect choice. Loaded with juicy shrimp, crisp-tender vegetables, and a glossy homemade teriyaki sauce, this dish is ready in under 25 minutes. It’s versatile, easy to customize, and makes a fantastic weeknight dinner or meal-prep option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in less time than takeout!
- Homemade Teriyaki Sauce: Made from scratch with simple ingredients for a fresh, balanced flavor.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite vegetables or protein for endless variations.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, vibrant veggies, and no artificial ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
- Thicken the Sauce: Dissolve the cornstarch in 1/4 cup of water and whisk it into the sauce mixture.
- Cook the Sauce: Transfer the sauce to a small saucepan and heat over medium heat. Stir constantly until it begins to thicken, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- Season and Heat: Lightly season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Sear the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Stir Fry the Vegetables
- Heat the Oil: Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet and heat over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the broccoli, carrots, and onions to the skillet. Stir fry for 3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the Remaining Veggies: Add the bell peppers and snap peas. Stir fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until all the vegetables are crisp-tender.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
- Add the Sauce: Return the shrimp to the skillet and pour the teriyaki sauce over the shrimp and vegetables. Toss everything together to coat evenly.
- Simmer: Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
Step 5: Serve
- Plate It: Serve the teriyaki shrimp stir fry over steamed rice, noodles, or your preferred base.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and texture.
Tips for Success
- Prep Ingredients First: Stir frying is a fast process, so have all your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go before starting.
- High Heat is Key: Use medium-high to high heat for a quick cook and to retain the crunchiness of the vegetables.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn pink.
Variations
- Protein Options: Swap shrimp for chicken, beef, or tofu for a different take on the dish.
- Vegetable Swaps: Use zucchini, mushrooms, baby corn, or bok choy based on your preferences.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for some heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Pairing: Serve with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles.
- Low-Carb Option: Pair with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Side Ideas: Add a side of miso soup or a crisp Asian cucumber salad for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Swap shrimp for tofu or tempeh, and use a plant-based alternative for honey like maple syrup in the teriyaki sauce.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid the microwave, as it can overcook the shrimp and vegetables.
Teriyaki Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe
If you're craving a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal, teriyaki shrimp stir fry is the perfect choice. Loaded with juicy shrimp, crisp-tender vegetables, and a glossy homemade teriyaki sauce, this dish is ready in under 25 minutes. It’s versatile, easy to customize, and makes a fantastic weeknight dinner or meal-prep option.
Ingredients
- For the Stir Fry
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup snap peas
- 3 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- For the Teriyaki Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
- 3 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions
1. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar.
- In a separate bowl, dissolve cornstarch in water.
- Heat sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Pour in the soy sauce mixture and bring it to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the cornstarch slurry, cooking until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
3. Stir Fry the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Add broccoli, carrot, snap peas, and bell peppers. Stir fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
4. Combine Everything
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet.
- Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the shrimp and vegetables, tossing to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
5. Serve
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
- Serve hot over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal.