Shrimp with Broccoli in Garlic Sauce

There are recipes that instantly transport us to our favorite restaurant, and this is one of them. The intoxicating aroma of garlic sizzling in hot oil, the bright green of freshly steamed broccoli, and the sweet brininess of shrimp mingling together in a glossy, savory sauce—it’s an experience that awakens the senses long before the first bite. From my experience, when we bring this dish to the table, the chatter stops for a moment, everyone leans in, and there’s that collective “wow.” I still remember preparing it for a family dinner on a chilly evening; we stood around the steaming pan, tasting the sauce with spoons before we could even plate it. That night, there wasn’t a single piece of broccoli left, which is saying something!

This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s practical. It cooks quickly, can be adapted to many cooking styles (from stir-frying in a wok to steaming in an Instant Pot), and looks far more complicated than it really is. The best part? We can control the flavors, making it lighter, richer, spicier, or milder depending on our mood.

Preparation Time

• Preparation: 15 minutes

• Cooking: 12–15 minutes (pan/wok) / 10–12 minutes (air fryer for shrimp, stovetop steaming for broccoli)

• Total time: approx. 25–30 minutes

This recipe serves 4 people and is easy to prepare, even if we’re cooking on a weeknight after a long day.

Ingredients

• 500g (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 medium broccoli heads, cut into florets

• 4 garlic cloves, finely minced

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for richer flavor)

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry for thickening)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)

• ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional garnish: sesame seeds or sliced green onions

Alternative ingredient ideas:

• Vegan version: Replace shrimp with tofu cubes or king oyster mushrooms. Use vegan oyster sauce or just increase soy sauce.

• Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce, and make sure the oyster sauce is gluten-free.

• Low-carb: Skip the cornstarch slurry and reduce broth for a lighter sauce.

Now that our pantry and fridge are ready, let’s dive into the actual cooking.

The steps of preparation (possible in all kinds of variations)

From my experience, using a hot wok is the fastest way, but I’ve also tried air frying the shrimp separately for a crisp texture and then tossing them into the garlic sauce. Both work beautifully, and even a simple sauté pan can deliver restaurant-quality results.

1. Wash shrimp thoroughly, pat dry, and season lightly with salt and pepper.

2. Steam broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes until just tender-crisp, then set aside.

3. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat.

4. Add garlic and ginger, stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Add shrimp and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until they start turning pink.

6. Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and broth, stirring well.

7. Add cornstarch slurry to thicken sauce, cooking for 1–2 minutes.

8. Toss steamed broccoli into the pan, mixing gently to coat with sauce.

9. Adjust seasoning with extra soy sauce, salt, or pepper as needed.

10. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions.

11. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

Nutritional Benefits – Why this dish is great for us

• Shrimp is high in lean protein, supporting muscle repair and energy.

• Broccoli is packed with vitamin C, boosting immune health.

• Garlic contains allicin, which may support heart health.

• Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that aid digestion.

• Sesame oil offers healthy fats that improve cholesterol balance.

• Soy sauce provides a source of antioxidants (in moderation).

• The combination of shrimp and broccoli makes this dish low in calories yet nutrient-dense.

Possible Additions or Upgrades

I love experimenting with this dish. Sometimes we add sliced red bell peppers for sweetness, or throw in baby corn for crunch. Chili flakes or fresh red chili give it a fiery kick that pairs perfectly with the garlic. For a luxurious upgrade, we can stir in cashews or almonds for texture. And if we’re in the mood for indulgence, adding a spoonful of hoisin sauce brings out a richer, slightly sweet depth.

Questions and Answers

Can we use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water.

Can we prepare this dish ahead of time?
We can prep the sauce and veggies in advance, but it’s best to cook shrimp right before serving.

Can we substitute chicken for shrimp?
Yes, thinly sliced chicken breast works wonderfully in the same sauce.

How do we make it spicier?
Add chili flakes, sriracha, or fresh chopped chili to the garlic.

Can we cook this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, sauté shrimp and garlic on sauté mode, then add sauce and broccoli briefly under pressure.

What is the best side dish?
Steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or even noodles complement it perfectly.

Can we make it oil-free?
We can steam the shrimp and broccoli, then toss them in sauce without frying.

How do we avoid overcooking shrimp?
Cook just until pink and opaque—usually 2–3 minutes per side.

Can we store leftovers?
Yes, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days, then reheat gently.

What’s the best way to reheat?
A quick toss in a hot pan is best to keep shrimp tender.

Can we add other vegetables?
Absolutely—carrots, snap peas, or bok choy are all excellent additions.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, just reduce garlic and ginger if kids prefer milder flavors.

From my experience, every time I make this dish, it becomes the centerpiece of the meal. The glossy garlic sauce clings to every shrimp and broccoli floret, creating a harmony of flavor that feels comforting yet special. If you decide to cook it, I warmly encourage you to share this recipe on your social networks and let friends and family taste the joy too. Good food spreads happiness, and this dish does exactly that!