This shrimp and asparagus stir-fry delivers a colorful mix of fresh vegetables and tender shrimp in just minutes! Juicy mushrooms add an extra burst of flavor, making every bite delightful.
I love how quick this dish is to whip up. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when I want something healthy and tasty in a hurry. Plus, who can resist that bright green asparagus? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh large shrimp are the star of this dish, providing a delicious texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use chicken or tofu for a different protein option. Just adjust the cooking time based on what you choose.
Asparagus: This veggie adds a beautiful crunch. If asparagus isn’t in season, you can use green beans or snap peas. Each offers a nice snap and crispness to complement the dish.
Mushrooms: I love shiitake mushrooms for their earthy flavor, but button mushrooms work well too. You could even try other varieties like cremini for a richer taste. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, simply leave them out!
Soy Sauce & Oyster Sauce: Both sauces bring great umami to the dish. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free soy sauce, or use tamari. If you don’t have oyster sauce, hoisin sauce is a suitable substitute.
Vegetable Oil: This oil is perfect for high-heat cooking. You could swap it with olive oil, though it has a lower smoke point. If you’re looking for a flavor boost, try using sesame oil for stir-frying, but be sure to keep a close eye on it as it burns quickly.
How Do I Properly Stir-Fry for the Best Results?
Stir-frying can seem tricky, but it’s all about timing and heat. Make sure to prep all ingredients before starting since stir-frying needs to happen quickly. Here are a few steps to ensure you get it right:
- Use a high heat setting for quick cooking. A hot skillet or wok ensures a nice sear on the shrimp and vegetables.
- Add ingredients based on cooking time: Start with shrimp, then mushrooms and vegetables that take longer to cook, like asparagus.
- Constantly stir or toss the ingredients to cook them evenly without burning. This keeps everything crisp and flavorful!
Remember, the goal is for everything to be cooked through but still have that slight crunch, which makes stir-fries so enjoyable.
How to Make Shrimp and Asparagus Stir-Fry with Mushrooms?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (preferably shiitake or button mushrooms)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For Seasoning and Garnish:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious shrimp and asparagus stir-fry takes about 10 minutes for prep and another 15 minutes for cooking. So in total, you’ll need about 25 minutes to whip up a delightful meal that’s both quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir well to combine, and set this sauce mixture aside for later.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque. After they’re cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Then, toss in the asparagus and sliced mushrooms. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender but still crisp. Keep stirring so they cook evenly!
4. Combine Everything Together:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the asparagus and mushrooms. Pour your sauce mixture over everything. If you want a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water until smooth, then add it to the skillet. Toss all the ingredients together gently and cook for another 2 minutes to let the sauce coat everything perfectly.
5. Season and Garnish:
Season your stir-fry with a bit of salt and pepper to taste. Then, take it off the heat and sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for a beautiful finish.
6. Serve It Up:
Your shrimp and asparagus stir-fry is ready to enjoy! Serve it hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles if you like. Dig in and enjoy this delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this by placing the shrimp in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry with paper towels before adding to the skillet to prevent extra moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If you don’t have asparagus on hand, you can substitute it with broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly: broccoli will require a bit longer to cook, while snap peas and bell peppers will cook faster, so be sure to adjust accordingly!
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by substituting soy sauce with tamari (a gluten-free soy sauce) and ensuring that your oyster sauce is gluten-free as well. Also, always check that your cornstarch is certified gluten-free if you choose to use it.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep everything moist. Avoid reheating more than once to maintain quality!
