Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry (Xiā Rén Chǎo Xī Lán Huā)

Chinese Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry (Xiā Rén Chǎo Xī Lán Huā)

A Light and Healthy Chinese Seafood Stir-Fry

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Introduction

Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry  is a popular Chinese home-style dish known for its fresh flavor, bright color, and nutritious balance.

Tender shrimp are quickly stir-fried with crisp broccoli in a light, savory sauce. The result is a dish that’s simple yet elegant, high in protein, and low in fat — perfect for a healthy everyday meal.

This dish captures the essence of Chinese stir-frying: fresh ingredients, high heat, and fast cooking that preserves natural texture and flavor.

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• Fresh shrimp (peeled and deveined) — 200 g

• Broccoli — 250 g

• Garlic — 3 cloves, minced

• Ginger — 1 teaspoon, minced

For the Shrimp Marinade:

• Salt — ¼ teaspoon

• Cooking wine (Shaoxing wine or dry sherry) — 1 teaspoon

• Cornstarch — 1 teaspoon

• A few drops of sesame oil

For the Sauce:

• Light soy sauce — 1 tablespoon

• Oyster sauce — 1 tablespoon

• Chicken stock or water — 3 tablespoons

• Cornstarch — ½ teaspoon (mixed with 1 tablespoon water)

• White pepper — a pinch

For Cooking:

• Vegetable oil — 2 tablespoons

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Rinse the peeled and deveined shrimp, then pat dry with paper towels.

2. In a small bowl, marinate the shrimp with salt, cooking wine, cornstarch, and sesame oil.

3. Mix well and let it sit for 10–15 minutes.

   Tip: The cornstarch coating helps the shrimp stay tender and juicy during stir-frying.

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Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli

1. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets.

2. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt and a few drops of oil, then blanch the broccoli for about 1 minute until bright green.

3. Remove and immediately rinse under cold water (or soak in ice water) to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.

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Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add the marinated shrimp and stir-fry for 30–40 seconds per side, until they just turn pink.

3. Remove and set aside (they will finish cooking later).

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Step 4: Stir-Fry the Aromatics

1. Add another 1 tablespoon of oil to the wok.

2. Add minced garlic and ginger, stir-frying until fragrant.

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Step 5: Combine and Stir-Fry

1. Add the blanched broccoli and toss for about 1 minute.

2. Return the shrimp to the wok.

3. Pour in the sauce mixture (light soy sauce, oyster sauce, stock, and cornstarch slurry).

4. Stir-fry everything quickly over high heat for 1–2 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats all ingredients evenly.

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Step 6: Finish and Serve

1. Sprinkle a pinch of white pepper and adjust seasoning if needed.

2. Drizzle a few drops of sesame oil for fragrance.

3. Serve immediately while hot.

This dish pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a light and balanced meal.

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Tips for Perfect Stir-Fry

• Do not overcook the shrimp — they cook very fast and become tough if fried too long.

• Blanching the broccoli keeps its color vibrant and texture crisp.

• Keep the heat high during stir-frying for that signature wok aroma (wok hei).

• You can add carrot slices or bell pepper for extra color and flavor.

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Conclusion

Chinese Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry is the perfect example of healthy Chinese cooking — quick, colorful, and full of natural flavor.

With tender shrimp, crisp broccoli, and a light savory sauce, it’s both satisfying and refreshing.
Whether for a weekday dinner or a family gathering, this dish brings a touch of Chinese elegance to any table.