Shrimp and scallop stir-fry is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. This recipe focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients and simple techniques to create a restaurant-quality stir-fry at home. The delicate sweetness of the scallops complements the savory shrimp, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
What Makes This Shrimp and Scallop Stir-Fry Recipe Special?
This recipe distinguishes itself through several key elements:
- Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients: We prioritize using the freshest shrimp and scallops available to maximize flavor and texture. The vibrant vegetables add a burst of freshness and nutrients.
- Balanced Flavors: The sauce is carefully crafted to balance sweet, savory, and tangy notes, creating a complex and delicious flavor profile.
- Quick and Easy Preparation: The recipe is designed for efficiency, minimizing prep time and cooking time without sacrificing flavor.
- Adaptability: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences and what's in season.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound large sea scallops, patted dry
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Seafood: Toss the shrimp and scallops with cornstarch. This helps to create a slightly crispy texture.
- Stir-fry the Vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bell peppers and onion and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. Add the garlic and ginger and stir-fry for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Seafood: Add the shrimp and scallops to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until cooked through and pink. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), honey/brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Combine and Simmer: Pour the sauce over the shrimp and scallops and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly and coats the seafood and vegetables.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately over cooked rice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I prevent the shrimp and scallops from becoming tough?
Overcooking is the main culprit for tough shrimp and scallops. Ensure your heat is medium-high and cook the seafood for just the right amount of time—until they turn pink and opaque. Don't overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the temperature and lead to steaming instead of stir-frying.
Can I use frozen shrimp and scallops?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp and scallops, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before tossing them with cornstarch.
What other vegetables can I add to this stir-fry?
Feel free to experiment with other vegetables! Broccoli florets, snow peas, carrots, mushrooms, and baby corn all work well in this recipe. Choose vegetables that cook quickly to maintain a good texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Cook the seafood and combine everything just before serving to maintain the best flavor and texture.
What type of rice is best to serve with this stir-fry?
Jasmine rice or long-grain white rice are excellent choices for this dish. Their neutral flavor complements the rich flavors of the stir-fry without overpowering them.
This recipe provides a delicious and flexible framework for a fantastic shrimp and scallop stir-fry. Enjoy experimenting with different vegetables and adjusting the sauce to your liking! Remember to use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
