This vibrant shrimp and pepper stir fry is the ultimate combination of speed, flavor, and nutrition packed into one stunning dish. Featuring succulent shrimp perfectly seasoned and stir-fried with colorful bell peppers and aromatic vegetables, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in just minutes. The beautiful contrast of colors, the satisfying sizzle of the wok, and the incredible aroma make this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Ingredients
For the Vegetables:
- Onion: 120g (4.23 oz / 1 medium onion), sliced
- Bell peppers: 210g (7.4 oz / 2 large peppers, mixed colors), cut into strips
- Sugar: ⅛ teaspoon
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
- Fresh ginger: 3 slices (about 1 tablespoon minced)
For the Shrimp:
- Large shrimp: 340g (12 oz), peeled and deveined
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
- Sugar: ⅛ teaspoon
- White pepper powder: 1/16 teaspoon (pinch)
- Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon
- Water: 1 teaspoon
- Sesame oil: ½ teaspoon
For the Aromatics and Sauce:
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Green onions: 3 stalks, chopped
- Rice wine: 1 teaspoon
- Oyster sauce: 1 teaspoon
- Light soy sauce: 1 teaspoon
- Dark soy sauce: 1 teaspoon
- Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
For the Thickening Mixture:
- Cornstarch: ½ teaspoon
- Water: 80ml (⅓ cup)
Additional Cooking Requirements:
- Vegetable oil: 2-3 tablespoons for stir-frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables Begin by preparing all your vegetables, as stir-frying happens quickly once you start. Peel and slice the onion into thin strips. Remove seeds from the bell peppers and cut them into uniform strips about 1cm (½ inch) wide. Mince the garlic cloves and ginger finely. Chop the green onions, separating the white and green parts.
Step 2: Prepare and Marinate the Shrimp If using frozen shrimp, ensure they’re completely thawed and patted dry. Remove shells and devein if necessary. In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with ¼ teaspoon salt, ⅛ teaspoon sugar, and a pinch of white pepper powder. In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 teaspoon water to create a slurry, then add this to the shrimp along with ½ teaspoon sesame oil. Mix thoroughly and let marinate for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Cornstarch Thickening Mixture In a small bowl, whisk together ½ teaspoon cornstarch with ⅓ cup water until completely smooth. This mixture will help create the perfect glossy sauce that coats all ingredients beautifully.
Stir-Frying Process
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat until it begins to smoke. Add the sliced onions and stir-fry for 1 minute until they begin to soften. Add the bell pepper strips, ⅛ teaspoon sugar, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Continue stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until the peppers are tender-crisp and slightly charred. The vegetables should retain their vibrant colors and slight crunch. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 5: Cook the Shrimp Add another tablespoon of oil to the same wok and heat until smoking. Add the marinated shrimp in a single layer, allowing them to sear for 1 minute without stirring. This creates a beautiful golden crust. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they turn pink and are almost cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside with the vegetables.
Step 6: Create the Aromatic Base Add the remaining oil to the wok if needed. Add minced ginger and garlic, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Add the white parts of the green onions and stir-fry for another 30 seconds.
Final Assembly
Step 7: Combine and Season Return the cooked vegetables and shrimp to the wok. Add rice wine, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, and dark soy sauce. Toss everything together quickly to combine, cooking for 1 minute to heat through and meld the flavors.
Step 8: Thicken and Finish Give the cornstarch mixture a quick stir and pour it into the wok. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and creates a glossy coating on all ingredients. Remove from heat and immediately drizzle with 1 teaspoon sesame oil and sprinkle with black pepper and the green parts of the scallions.
Nutritional Information and Timing
Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 8 minutes Total Time: 23 minutes Servings: 4-6 people
Nutritional Profile (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 180
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Vitamin C: Excellent source (from bell peppers)
- Selenium: High (from shrimp)
- Iodine: Good source (from shrimp)
- Antioxidants: High (from colorful vegetables)
Delicious Variations and Substitutions
Protein Alternatives
While shrimp is traditional, this recipe works beautifully with other proteins. Chicken breast or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces cook similarly to shrimp. Scallops provide an elegant seafood alternative, while firm tofu or tempeh make excellent vegetarian options.
Vegetable Combinations
Expand your vegetable selection based on season and preference. Snow peas, snap peas, or baby corn add wonderful crunch. Broccoli florets, mushrooms, or zucchini strips work beautifully. For heat, add sliced jalapeños or red chili peppers.
Sauce Variations
Customize the sauce to your taste preferences. For spicier dishes, add chili garlic sauce or sriracha. Black bean sauce creates a richer, more complex flavor. For a lighter version, increase the rice wine and reduce the soy sauces.
Regional Adaptations
Transform this into different regional styles by adjusting seasonings. Add curry powder for an Indo-Chinese version, or include fish sauce and lime juice for Thai-inspired flavors. Ginger-scallion oil creates a Cantonese-style dish.
Low-Carb and Keto Modifications
This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates. For keto dieters, increase the oil slightly and serve over cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles instead of regular rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming overcooked and rubbery? The key is high heat and short cooking time. Shrimp cook very quickly and should be removed from heat as soon as they turn pink and curl. Marinating with cornstarch helps create a protective coating that keeps them tender.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, but ensure they’re completely thawed and thoroughly patted dry before marinating. Excess water will cause the oil to splatter and prevent proper searing. Thaw shrimp in cold water for 15-20 minutes, then drain and dry completely.
What’s the best way to achieve restaurant-style “wok hei” flavor at home? Use the highest heat possible and ensure your wok or pan is smoking hot before adding ingredients. Cook in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which causes steaming instead of stir-frying. A well-seasoned carbon steel wok gives the best results.
Can I prepare ingredients ahead of time? Absolutely! Stir-frying requires quick cooking, so having everything prepped beforehand is essential. Marinate the shrimp and cut vegetables up to 4 hours ahead. Keep everything refrigerated and bring to room temperature before cooking.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot wok or skillet rather than the microwave to maintain texture. Add a splash of water or broth if the dish seems dry, and heat just until warmed through to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
This vibrant shrimp and pepper stir fry is perfect served over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles. For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. The colorful presentation makes it perfect for entertaining, while the quick cooking time makes it ideal for weeknight dinners.
Garnish with additional green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra visual appeal and flavor. A wedge of lime on the side adds a bright, acidic note that complements the rich umami flavors.
The dish is best served immediately while the vegetables retain their crunch and the shrimp are at their most tender. If you must hold the dish, keep it warm in a low oven for no more than 15 minutes to prevent overcooking.
This classic stir fry technique, when mastered, opens up countless possibilities for creating quick, healthy, and delicious meals. The principles learned here apply to virtually any protein and vegetable combination, making this recipe a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire.