If you want a meal that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, you’ll love this Teriyaki Shrimp Stir Fry. In just a few steps, you can create a dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. With fresh shrimp, vibrant veggies, and a delicious homemade teriyaki sauce, it’s the perfect option for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this tasty fare in no time!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Flavorful: This dish combines succulent shrimp with vibrant mixed vegetables, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures that is both refreshing and satisfying.
- Quick and Easy: With a total preparation time of just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce to suit your tastes, making this recipe versatile for any palate.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein from shrimp and nutrients from fresh vegetables, this dish is not only delicious but also a great choice for a balanced meal.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, finely grated
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (plus more for cooking)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- Cooked rice (jasmine or sticky rice)
- Sliced green onions
When you want a quick and tasty meal, this recipe shines. The shrimp create a sweet and savory mix. The veggies add crunch and color. Here’s a closer look at what you need to make this awesome dish.
First, let’s talk about the shrimp. You need one pound, peeled and deveined. Shrimp cooks fast and brings a light taste. It soaks up flavors well, making it perfect for teriyaki.
Next, you’ll want two cups of mixed veggies. You can use bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli. These veggies not only taste great but also make your dish pop with color. Feel free to swap any veggies you prefer.
Garlic and ginger are key to this recipe. You need three cloves of garlic and one inch of ginger. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger finely. They add a wonderful aroma and depth to the dish.
Now let’s move on to the teriyaki sauce. You’ll need 1/4 cup of low-sodium soy sauce. It’s the base of the sauce. For sweetness, use either two tablespoons of honey or maple syrup. This gives a nice balance to the saltiness.
You also need one tablespoon of sesame oil and one tablespoon of rice vinegar. These add richness and a tangy kick. Lastly, mix two teaspoons of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water. This helps thicken the sauce.
For garnish, you’ll sprinkle two tablespoons of sesame seeds on top. They add a nutty flavor and crunch. Serve the stir fry over cooked rice, like jasmine or sticky rice.
Finally, add sliced green onions as a fresh touch. They bring color and a mild onion flavor.
With these ingredients, you’re set to make a flavorful teriyaki shrimp stir fry that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Teriyaki Sauce
1. In a small bowl, whisk together these ingredients:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
2. Once mixed, set the sauce aside for later.
Cooking the Shrimp
1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Drizzle in a small amount of sesame oil.
2. When the skillet is hot, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 inch of grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring often until they smell great.
3. Now, add 1 pound of shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring until the shrimp turns pink and curls up.
Stir-Frying the Vegetables
1. Next, add 2 cups of mixed vegetables to the skillet. You can use bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli.
2. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes. You want the vegetables to be tender-crisp and colorful.
Combining Everything
1. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the shrimp and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
2. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken and glaze the stir fry.
3. When the sauce is thick enough, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for extra flavor.
4. Serve the stir fry hot over cooked rice, and add sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
Tips & Tricks
Best Cooking Techniques
To get the best flavor from your teriyaki shrimp stir fry, use a large skillet or wok. The wide surface helps the heat spread evenly. Always heat your pan on medium-high heat. This high heat cooks the shrimp fast and keeps the veggies crisp.
How to Achieve the Perfect Sauce
For a thick teriyaki sauce, mix cornstarch with water. This will help the sauce cling to the shrimp and veggies. If you want it sweeter, add more honey or maple syrup. For a tangy twist, increase the rice vinegar. Taste and adjust to make it just right for you.
Presentation Suggestions
Garnish your dish with sesame seeds for a nice crunch. Sliced green onions add color and freshness. Serve the stir fry over fluffy jasmine or sticky rice. For a lovely touch, use a large bowl to show off the bright colors. You can also serve it with chopsticks for fun!
Pro Tips
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh shrimp and vegetables for the best flavor and texture in your stir fry.
- High Heat Cooking: Cooking on high heat helps to quickly sear the shrimp and vegetables, locking in moisture and flavor.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini or carrot, to suit your taste.
- Batch Cooking: Make a double batch of the teriyaki sauce to use on other proteins like chicken or tofu throughout the week.
Variations
Vegetable Alternatives
You can swap out the mixed vegetables in this dish. Try using bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli. Feel free to mix and match! Seasonal veggies, like zucchini or asparagus, add a fresh twist. You can also use frozen vegetables if you are short on time. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
Protein Substitutes
If you don’t have shrimp, don’t worry! Chicken or tofu work well too. For chicken, cut it into small pieces and cook until golden. For tofu, use firm tofu and press it to remove excess water. Cooking time may change. Chicken takes about 5-6 minutes, while tofu needs about 4-5 minutes until golden. Adjust as needed!
Gluten-Free Adaptation
To make this dish gluten-free, choose gluten-free soy sauce. Brands like Tamari or Coconut Aminos are good options. Check labels to be sure. You can also use rice vinegar and honey, as they are naturally gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Instructions
To store leftovers, let the stir fry cool down. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, make sure to check for any off smells or changes in color before eating.
Freezing Tips
If you want to freeze the stir fry, it is best to do so right after cooking. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove extra air to prevent freezer burn. The stir fry can last in the freezer for up to three months.
To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. You can also use the microwave for faster results. When ready to eat, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. Stir well until it’s hot throughout. This keeps the shrimp and veggies nice and tasty.
FAQs
What can I serve with teriyaki shrimp stir fry?
You can serve teriyaki shrimp stir fry with several tasty sides. Here are a few options:
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Sticky rice
- Noodles, like udon or soba
- A fresh green salad
- Crispy spring rolls
These sides balance the rich flavors of the stir fry. They also add texture and variety to your meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare some elements in advance. Here are some tips:
- Chop vegetables and store them in the fridge.
- Mix the teriyaki sauce and keep it sealed.
- Cook the shrimp right before serving for the best taste.
This way, you can save time on busy days.
How can I customize the spice level?
You can easily adjust the spice level in your stir fry. Here are a few ways:
- Add red pepper flakes when cooking.
- Use a spicy sauce like Sriracha in the teriyaki mix.
- Include sliced fresh chili peppers with the vegetables.
Start with a little and taste as you go.
You now have a complete guide to making teriyaki shrimp stir fry. We covered key ingredients like shrimp, vegetables, and the teriyaki sauce. You learned step-by-step how to prepare the sauce, cook the shrimp, and stir-fry the vegetables to perfection. I shared tips for great flavor and presentation. You also discovered variations and storage options.
For a satisfying dish, don't hesitate to try new ingredients or spices. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
