Chinese shrimp with mixed vegetables is a simple, tasty dish you can make at home any day. It’s fresh, colorful, and full of flavor. Plus, it’s healthy and cooks quickly. Whether you want a quick dinner or a nutritious lunch, this shrimp and vegetable stir-fry is a great choice. Let’s walk through how to make it step-by-step.
The Origins of Chinese Shrimp with Mixed Vegetables
This dish comes from Chinese cuisine traditions, where meals often balance meat or seafood with fresh vegetables.. Shrimp is popular in Chinese food because it cooks fast and tastes sweet and tender. Mixed vegetables add crunch, color, and nutrition.
Different regions in China might prepare it with slightly different vegetables or sauces, but the idea is the same: combine shrimp and vegetables with a tasty sauce for a quick, healthy meal.
Health Benefits of Shrimp and Mixed Vegetables
Shrimp is low in calories but packed with protein. It also has vitamins like B12 and minerals like selenium, which are good for your body. Mixed vegetables, like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers, add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Eating shrimp with mixed vegetables gives you a balanced meal that is both good for you and filling.
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Recipe
For this dish, you will need:
- Fresh shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, snow peas, carrots, baby corn, and mushrooms
- Garlic and ginger for flavor
- Soy sauce (low sodium is better)
- Oyster sauce or hoisin sauce
- Sesame oil
- Cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
- Vegetable oil or peanut oil (for cooking)
- Optional: green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
If you don’t have all these vegetables, feel free to swap in what you like or have on hand.
Best Vegetables to Use in Chinese Shrimp Stir-Fry
The best vegetables are fresh and crisp. Broccoli and bell peppers add crunch and color. Snow peas give a fresh snap, and carrots add a bit of sweetness. Mushrooms add earthiness and texture. Baby corn is a nice addition for a mild crunch. Using different vegetables makes the dish colorful and tasty.
How to Prepare Shrimp for Stir-Fry
Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry. To keep the shrimp tender and flavorful, you can marinate them for about 10-15 minutes in a little soy sauce and cornstarch. This also helps the shrimp stay juicy when cooked.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
- Wash and cut all your vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat a wok or large pan on medium-high heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable or peanut oil.
- Add the shrimp and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Remove shrimp from the pan.
- Add a bit more oil if needed, then stir-fry minced garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the harder vegetables like carrots and broccoli first. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
- Add softer vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. Stir-fry until vegetables are cooked but still crisp.
- Return shrimp to the pan. Mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, water, and cornstarch mixed in water. Pour this sauce over the shrimp and vegetables.
- Stir everything well for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the food.
- Turn off the heat and drizzle sesame oil on top. Mix once more.
- Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if you like.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Stir-Fry Texture
To keep shrimp tender and vegetables crisp: don’t crowd the pan, use high heat, and cook shrimp last since it cooks very fast. Cut vegetables evenly so they cook at the same rate. Using cornstarch in the sauce helps it stick nicely to the shrimp and vegetables.
The Best Sauces for Chinese Shrimp with Mixed Vegetables
Soy sauce is the base of the sauce, giving saltiness. Oyster sauce adds a rich, slightly sweet flavor. You can also use hoisin sauce if you want it sweeter. A little sugar or honey can balance salty sauces if needed. For spice, add chili flakes or sauce, but keep it mild if you prefer. The goal is a balanced sauce that tastes good without overpowering the shrimp or vegetables.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
This shrimp with mixed vegetables goes well with steamed rice or fried rice. You can also serve it with noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. A simple soup on the side, like egg drop or hot and sour soup, makes a great meal. For a refreshing appetizer, try our Vegetable Roll Sushi Recipe. Add fresh herbs or sesame seeds on top to finish the dish.
Variations of the Recipe to Try
You can change this recipe in many ways. Add nuts like cashews or peanuts for extra crunch. Use tofu instead of shrimp to make it vegetarian, or try our delicious Beef with Chinese Mixed Vegetables version for a heartier option. If you like spice, add fresh chili peppers or chili sauce. For gluten-free, swap soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making This Dish
Don’t overcook the shrimp or it will be tough. Cook vegetables quickly on high heat to keep them crunchy. Avoid crowding the pan so ingredients cook evenly. Use good-quality sauces for the best taste. Don’t forget to add the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, stir-fry quickly in a hot pan rather than microwaving, so shrimp doesn’t get rubbery and vegetables stay crisp. Add a little water if the sauce is too thick after reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but make sure to thaw completely and dry the shrimp before cooking.
What if I’m allergic to shellfish?
Use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp.
How long does this dish keep in the fridge?
Up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
Yes. Replace shrimp with tofu or mushrooms and use vegetarian oyster sauce or mushroom sauce.
Conclusion: Ready to Cook Your Delicious Chinese Shrimp with Mixed Vegetables?
This easy, healthy Chinese shrimp with mixed vegetables recipe is full of fresh flavors and simple to make. It’s perfect for a quick meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste or nutrition. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a homemade dish better than takeout! Don’t forget to visit KhalilsFood.com for more great recipes and share your cooking experience with us.
Try this recipe along with our popular Easy Homemade Chicken Spring Rolls for a complete homemade Asian-inspired meal!
