What makes the perfect weeknight dinner? A quick and easy homemade stir fry like this shrimp chow mein with broccoli and savory noodles, cooked to perfection in a skillet. Save this idea for a delicious family favorite meal to try soon.

two pictures of shrimp chow mein with broccoli and noodles in a skillet

Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the simplicity of everyday ingredients with the flair of Asian cuisine, all in the comfort of your own kitchen. Shrimp chow mein with broccoli and noodles in a skillet is not just a meal; it’s an experience. This recipe is designed to be easy to follow, packed with flavor, and incredibly versatile, allowing you to get creative with ingredients you likely have on hand. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, this shrimp chow mein recipe will guide you through the process of creating a truly impressive and delicious meal with minimal fuss.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between sweet, savory, and umami flavors, using ingredients that are readily available in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings or special occasions when you want to impress without the hassle.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the combination of succulent shrimp, crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked noodles, all wrapped in a savory sauce, presents a dish that looks and tastes like it was prepared in a professional kitchen.

Key Ingredients

The foundation of a great shrimp chow mein lies in its key ingredients. You’ll need:
– 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups of broccoli florets
– 1 cup of chow mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed bell peppers (optional)
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)

For practical substitutions, you can use chicken or tofu for a different protein source, and swap broccoli with other crisp vegetables like carrots or snap peas.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and cut the broccoli into florets. If using bell peppers, slice them into thin strips.
2. Step 2: Cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling them for 2-3 minutes or until they are slightly undercooked, then draining and setting them aside.
3. Step 3: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they are pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Step 4: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until it starts to soften, about 2 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Add the broccoli (and bell peppers, if using) and cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Step 5: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, stirring to combine with the vegetables. Then add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes, ensuring the noodles are well coated with the sauce.
6. Step 6: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir to combine with the noodles and vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Step 7: For the final touches, garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.

Handy Tips

• To prevent the noodles from becoming too soggy, cook them slightly underdone and drain well before adding them to the skillet.
• For an extra crispy texture, add some chopped nuts or seeds (like cashews or sesame seeds) towards the end of the stir-fry.
• Avoid overcooking the shrimp and vegetables to maintain their color and texture.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial in stir-frying. Start with a medium-high heat to quickly cook the shrimp and then adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning the garlic or overcooking the vegetables. Ideal stir-frying is done quickly over high heat, but be mindful of your stove and the ingredients’ doneness.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right crunch factor in your shrimp chow mein is key to its appeal. The broccoli should retain a bit of crunch, while the noodles should be cooked but still have some bite. If you’re adding nuts or seeds, they’ll provide an extra layer of crunch. To achieve this, cook your ingredients until they’re just done, avoiding overcooking which can lead to a soft, unappealing texture.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a wok or a large skillet with a non-stick surface to prevent food from sticking and to make stir-frying easier.
• Prepare all your ingredients before starting to cook, as stir-frying is a quick process and you’ll need to add ingredients swiftly.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary, to ensure that all ingredients are cooked evenly and quickly.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the dish after it has cooled. Reheat frozen shrimp chow mein in a skillet with a little oil or in the microwave.
• When reheating, add a splash of water or soy sauce to revive the flavors and moisture.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While shrimp chow mein is typically served fresh, if you’re looking to gift a similar culinary experience, consider packaging the ingredients separately in a gift basket. Include noodles, sauces, vegetables, and perhaps a cookbook with the recipe. For a more immediate gift, cook the dish, portion it into microwave-safe containers, and garnish with fresh scallions and a fortune cookie on top.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or some curry powder for a unique twist.
• Creative toppings: Offer chopped green onions, bean sprouts, sliced almonds, or pickled ginger as toppings for added texture and flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute chicken for shrimp, or use a variety of colorful bell peppers for added visual appeal.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your noodles are too soggy, try cooking them for less time or adding them towards the end of the stir-fry. For too crunchy vegetables, cook them a bit longer.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find certain ingredients, feel free to substitute with similar alternatives. For example, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
• Over/undercooking signs: Shrimp should be pink and fully opaque when cooked. Vegetables should be tender but still crisp. Noodles should have a slight bite but not be hard.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze cooked shrimp chow mein. However, it’s best to freeze it before adding the noodles to prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Is it gluten-free? This recipe can be adapted to be gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensuring that the noodles are gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe for larger gatherings. Just be sure to use a large enough skillet or wok to accommodate all the ingredients.

Conclusion

Shrimp chow mein with broccoli and noodles in a skillet is a versatile and delicious meal that can be customized to your tastes and dietary needs. With its quick preparation time and impressive presentation, it’s perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make the recipe your own. Share your creations with friends and family, and enjoy the process of cooking and exploring the world of cuisine together.