Looking for a vibrant dish that’s both quick and satisfying? Garlic chili shrimp stir fry is your answer! This meal combines plump shrimp, fresh veggies, and bold flavors in just minutes. Follow me as I guide you through easy steps to create this delicious stir fry. With tips on how to perfect your shrimp and customize the heat, you’ll be a stir-fry pro in no time! Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup snap peas
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
– Sesame seeds (for garnish)
– Cooked jasmine rice (for serving)
In this dish, shrimp is the star. I love using large shrimp because they cook quickly and stay juicy. The garlic and ginger add great flavor and warmth. Fresh vegetables like red bell pepper and snap peas bring color and crunch. The soy sauce gives a salty touch, while chili garlic sauce adds heat. Sesame oil rounds out the flavors with its nutty scent. Don’t forget the jasmine rice; it makes the perfect base for this meal. Each ingredient plays a key role, creating a lively and quick meal that you will enjoy making and eating!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Shrimp
To start, you need to marinate the shrimp. In a medium bowl, combine one pound of shrimp with two tablespoons of soy sauce and two cloves of minced garlic. This adds flavor. Let the shrimp marinate for about 10 minutes. This short time works well for shrimp.
Cooking the Aromatics
Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add one tablespoon of vegetable oil. When the oil is hot, add the rest of the minced garlic and two tablespoons of minced ginger. Stir them quickly for about 30 seconds. You want the kitchen to smell great!
Cooking the Shrimp
Add the marinated shrimp to the hot skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally. The shrimp will start turning pink. This color change means they are cooking well.
Stir-frying the Vegetables
Now it’s time to add vegetables. Toss in one sliced red bell pepper and one cup of snap peas. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes. Aim for tender-crisp veggies. They should stay bright and colorful.
Combining Sauce and Finishing Touches
Pour in two tablespoons of chili garlic sauce and the remaining soy sauce. Mix everything well to coat the shrimp and veggies. Let it cook together for another minute. This step enhances the flavor!
Serving Suggestions
Serve your stir fry over a bed of cooked jasmine rice. For a finishing touch, garnish with two sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This adds a nice crunch and bright color to your dish. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Shrimp
To get the best shrimp, avoid overcooking. Shrimp cooks fast. When they turn pink and curl, they are done. Overcooked shrimp can be tough. The best size shrimp for this dish is large. They have a nice bite and hold up well in the stir fry.
Enhancing Flavor
Add spices and herbs to boost flavor. Try a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat. Fresh ingredients are key in this dish. Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best taste. They bring a vibrant taste that dried spices can’t match.
Equipment Recommendations
For stir-frying, a large skillet or wok works best. A wok heats evenly and gives you space to toss ingredients. I recommend using a wooden spatula. It’s gentle on your cookware and helps you mix well without scratching the surface.
Variations
Alternative Vegetables
You can change up the veggies in this stir fry. Broccoli, carrots, and zucchini work great. If you want more color, add seasonal vegetables, like asparagus in spring or squash in fall. Mixing different vegetables keeps the dish fresh and exciting. Use what you have on hand to make it your own.
Adjusting Spice Levels
Do you prefer your dish mild or spicy? You can make it milder by using less chili garlic sauce. For more heat, add extra sauce or some red pepper flakes. If you want a different flavor, try using teriyaki or hoisin sauce instead. This gives the dish a fun twist while keeping it tasty.
Protein Swaps
Want to switch up the protein? You can easily use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp. If you choose chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces and cook it a bit longer. Tofu needs a little pressing first, then cook it until it’s golden. Adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose, and enjoy the flavors!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To keep your Garlic Chili Shrimp Stir Fry fresh, store it in an airtight container. This method helps prevent air from spoiling the dish. In the fridge, it stays good for about 3 days. Always let it cool to room temperature before sealing.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Place the stir fry in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as it may expand when frozen. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. For reheating, use a skillet over low heat for best results.
Meal Prep Tips
For meal prep, divide the stir fry into single servings. This way, it’s easy to grab when you’re busy. You can also add it to salads or wraps for a quick lunch. The flavors blend well with rice or noodles, making it a versatile option for different meals.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just remember to thaw them first.
To thaw shrimp, place them in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can submerge them in cold water for about 20-30 minutes. Avoid using hot water, as it can cook the shrimp unevenly. After thawing, pat them dry before marinating.
What can I serve with Garlic Chili Shrimp Stir Fry?
This dish pairs well with many sides. Here are a few options:
– Cooked jasmine rice: It absorbs the sauce well.
– Quinoa: A healthy grain with a nutty flavor.
– Steamed broccoli: It adds color and nutrition.
– Noodles: Try rice noodles or soba for a twist.
Feel free to mix and match based on your taste!
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free. Just swap regular soy sauce for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. These options give you the same rich flavor without gluten.
Always check labels to ensure the products are certified gluten-free. Consider using coconut aminos as a soy-free alternative.
In this post, we explored how to make a delicious Garlic Chili Shrimp Stir Fry. We covered main ingredients like shrimp and fresh vegetables. I shared steps for marinating shrimp, cooking aromatics, and mixing sauces. We also discussed tips for perfecting your dish and easy variations.
Remember, fresh ingredients and proper cooking times make all the difference. Enjoy your cooking journey and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors. Happy cooking!
