When it comes to quick, flavorful meals, stir fry always hits the spot. Our Stir Fry Beef and Shrimp recipe combines tender beef, juicy shrimp, and crisp veggies in a savory sauce that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. It’s a harmony of textures and flavors, all coming together in one sizzling pan.
This dish draws inspiration from Asian cuisine, where stir-frying is an art form. The high heat locks in the natural flavors of the ingredients while creating a delicious caramelized finish. Plus, it’s versatile—swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Stir Fry Beef And Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
Here’s what we’ll need to make this rich, savory dish:
For the Protein:
- 8 oz beef sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 8 oz large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Vegetables:
- 1 cup broccoli florets, trimmed and washed
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch, mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Stir-Fry:
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 1/4 cup water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare All Ingredients
Before we start cooking, make sure everything is prepped:
- Slice the beef thinly for quick cooking. This ensures a tender texture.
- Devein and clean the shrimp so they’re ready to cook.
- Chop all vegetables into even pieces; this helps them cook evenly.
- Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl, whisking until smooth.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
- Add the beef slices, season with a pinch of black pepper, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned.
- Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sear the Shrimp
- Add another 1 tbsp of oil to the same pan.
- Stir-fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and curl.
- Remove the shrimp and place them with the beef.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- In the same pan, heat the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, and stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toss in the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
- Add 1/4 cup water, cover the pan, and let the vegetables steam for another 2 minutes.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
- Return the beef and shrimp to the pan. Mix everything gently.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Let the sauce thicken for about 1-2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
- Transfer the stir fry to a serving plate.
- Garnish with sesame seeds or fresh scallions if desired.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Pro Tip Table
| Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Marinate beef (in soy sauce and cornstarch) | Ensures tender, flavorful meat |
| Prep all ingredients first | Makes stir-frying quick and seamless |
| High heat cooking | Locks in flavors and textures |
This Stir Fry Beef and Shrimp is an excellent balance of flavors and textures, making it both a crowd-pleaser and a dinner staple.
Ingredients
Let’s gather everything we need for this delicious Stir Fry Beef and Shrimp recipe. By organizing our ingredients in advance, we ensure smooth cooking and a balanced flavor profile.
For The Beef
- 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced into bite-sized strips
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for tenderness)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
For The Shrimp
- 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to remove any odor)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
For The Sauce
| Sauce Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Hoisin sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Sesame oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Cornstarch (slurry) | 1 teaspoon mixed with 2 teaspoons water |
For The Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (we recommend red for sweetness)
- 1 medium carrot, cut into matchsticks
- 1/2 onion, sliced thinly
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, finely chopped
Tools And Equipment
For a successful and efficient Stir Fry Beef and Shrimp Recipe, having the right tools and equipment is essential. Let’s walk through the must-have tools that make the process smoother, ensuring perfectly cooked ingredients and a seamless cooking experience.
Essential Tools
- Wok or large skillet: A wok is ideal for stir-frying thanks to its high sides and even heat distribution. However, a large, heavy-bottom skillet can also work.
- Sharp chef’s knife: For thinly slicing the beef, shrimp prepping, and cutting the vegetables into uniform pieces.
- Cutting board: Use separate cutting boards for meat and vegetables to avoid cross-contamination.
- Mixing bowls: Use these for marinating the beef and shrimp and preparing the sauce.
- Wooden or silicone spatula: These are perfect for stirring and tossing the ingredients without scratching the wok or skillet.
- Tongs: For flipping and moving the beef and shrimp while they sear.
- Measuring spoons and cups: Ensure accurate measurements for the sauce and marinades.
- Grater or garlic press: If you prefer freshly minced garlic or ginger for added flavor.
Nice-To-Have Extras
- Whisk: To thoroughly mix the sauce ingredients for a smooth finish.
- Metal spider or slotted spoon: This is useful if you plan to blanch any vegetables before adding them to the stir-fry.
- Paper towels: Essential for patting the beef and shrimp dry to achieve a proper sear and prevent excess moisture.
Equipment Reference Table
Below is a quick reference table of the Tools And Equipment you’ll need for this recipe:
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Wok or skillet | Stir-frying ingredients evenly over high heat |
| Chef’s knife | Thin slicing of beef, shrimp prepping, and cutting veggies |
| Cutting board | Safe surface for preparing the beef and vegetables |
| Mixing bowls | Marinating and sauce preparation |
| Wooden or silicone spatula | Stirring and tossing ingredients safely |
| Tongs | Handling and flipping the protein |
| Measuring spoons/cups | Accurate measuring of ingredients for marinade and sauce |
| Grater/garlic press | Prepping fresh garlic and ginger |
| Whisk (optional) | Smooth blending of sauce ingredients |
| Metal spider/slotted spoon | Scooping blanched vegetables (optional) |
| Paper towels | Drying proteins to enhance caramelization |
Using the right equipment not only enhances the cooking process but also contributes to the perfectly textured beef, shrimp, and vegetables that define this flavorful dish.
Directions
Follow our step-by-step guide to create this delicious Stir Fry Beef and Shrimp recipe with ease. We’ll break it into three key stages: prep, cook, and assemble.
Prep
- Prepare the beef:
- Slice 12 oz of beef sirloin into thin strips, about 1/4-inch thick.
- Place the slices into a bowl, add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Toss well to ensure all pieces are evenly coated for tenderness.
- Prepare the shrimp:
- Peel and devein 1/2 lb of medium shrimp.
- Rinse under cold water, pat dry, and marinate with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Let rest for about 10 minutes.
- Vegetable prep:
- Chop the vegetables as follows:
- Broccoli (1 cup) into bite-sized florets.
- 1 red bell pepper into thin strips.
- 1 carrot into julienned pieces.
- 1 small onion into thin slivers.
- Mince 4 garlic cloves for aromatic flavor.
- Sauce preparation:
- In a small bowl, mix:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce, 2 teaspoons sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon sugar.
- Whisk until smooth and set aside.
Cook
- Heat a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, swirling to coat evenly.
- When the oil shimmers, sauté the garlic and onion for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the beef: Add the marinated beef strips in a single layer. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned on the outside. Remove and set aside.
- In the same wok, add another tablespoon of oil if necessary. Toss in the shrimp and stir-fry briefly for 2-3 minutes or until pink and curled. Remove and set aside.
- Add the vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell pepper) to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender yet crisp.
Assemble
- Return the cooked beef and shrimp to the wok. Stir to combine with the vegetables.
- Pour in the prepared sauce evenly over the mixture. Mix everything thoroughly, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats every ingredient.
- Taste test the stir-fry. Adjust seasoning with a final dash of soy sauce or pepper if necessary.
Tips For The Perfect Stir Fry
Creating the perfect stir fry requires attention to technique, timing, and ingredient preparation. Here are expert tips to ensure every bite is full of flavor, texture, and balance:
1. Prep Everything Before Cooking
Stir-frying happens quickly over high heat, so preparation is key. Ensure all ingredients are sliced, diced, chopped, and measured before turning on the heat. This includes marinating the beef, peeling and deveining shrimp, and mixing the sauce. Setting up a well-organized mise en place will prevent overcooking or missing an ingredient.
2. Use High Heat for the Perfect Sear
A proper stir fry thrives on high heat to achieve that slight caramelization, known as the “wok hei” or the “breath of the wok.” Use a heavy-bottomed wok or a large skillet, as these efficiently retain heat. Ensure the cooking oil you use, such as vegetable oil, avocado oil, or peanut oil, has a high smoke point.
3. Cook Proteins in Batches
Avoid overcrowding the wok when cooking proteins like beef and shrimp. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing. Use small batches to maintain the heat and achieve that golden crust on the beef and shrimp. This ensures the proteins remain juicy and flavorful.
Pro Tip: Marinate the beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and oil to make it extra tender and flavorful. Shrimp should be lightly seasoned to complement the stir fry sauce.
4. Vegetables: Tender Yet Crisp
The hallmark of a good stir fry is crisp-tender vegetables. Cut vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking. Dense vegetables like broccoli and carrots should go first, while faster-cooking ones, like bell peppers and onions, should go in later.
5. Balance the Sauce
The sauce is a unifying element in any stir fry. For this beef and shrimp stir fry, ensure the flavors—savory, slightly sweet, and umami—are well-balanced. A combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil works beautifully. If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with water to thicken it.
Tip: Add the sauce only during the final few minutes of cooking to avoid burning and to preserve the brightness of its flavors.
6. Keep the Wok Moving
Continuously stir ingredients to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. Use a long-handled spatula to toss the contents regularly. The key here is quick and consistent motion.
7. Don’t Overcook
Shrimp cooks quickly—about 2-3 minutes—or until pink and slightly curled. Overcooking shrimp makes it rubbery. Similarly, the beef should be seared until browned but still tender. Remember, the high heat will finish cooking during the final toss with the sauce.
8. Enhance with Garnishes
Finish your stir fry with fresh garnishes like sesame seeds, chopped scallions, or a splash of lime for added brightness and texture. A drizzle of toasted sesame oil at the end also adds a nutty aroma and flavor.
Quick Reference Table for Stir Fry Essentials
| Key Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Heat Level | High heat for achieving searing and “wok hei”. |
| Cooking Oil | Use oils with a high smoke point like peanut, vegetable, or avocado oil. |
| Protein Cooking Sequence | Cook beef and shrimp in small batches to avoid steaming. |
| Vegetables | Add denser vegetables first (e.g., carrots, broccoli), then quicker-cooking vegetables. |
| Sauce Duration | Add sauce towards the end of cooking to preserve flavors and avoid burning. |
| Essential Tools | Heavy-bottomed wok or skillet, spatula, mixing bowls, chef’s knife, and cutting boards. |
Following these tips ensures your stir fry beef and shrimp dish is vibrant, flavorful, and perfectly executed every time, making it a standout on your weekly dinner table.
Make-Ahead And Storage Instructions
Planning ahead and properly storing our Stir Fry Beef and Shrimp can make it even more convenient for busy schedules. Here’s how we can ensure its freshness and flavor:
Make-Ahead Steps
- Prepare Ingredients in Advance:
- Slice the beef and marinate with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of sesame oil. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Peel and devein shrimp, then marinate with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Store in another airtight container and keep refrigerated until ready to cook.
- Chop vegetables (broccoli, bell pepper, carrot, onion, garlic) ahead of time. Keep them stored in separate containers or resealable bags in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prepare the stir-fry sauce by mixing soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings. Store it in a small jar or bowl, sealed, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Organize and Label:
- For convenience, group all prepared ingredients together in the refrigerator so everything is ready to grab when cooking time arrives. Label containers with the prep date for easy tracking.
Storage Instructions
If we have leftovers or want to prepare the dish in advance and store it post-cooking, follow these tips:
- Cooling the Stir Fry:
- Allow the cooked stir fry to cool to room temperature before storing. This reduces condensation in the container, which can water down the sauce.
- Storage Duration:
- Place the cooled stir fry in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating Tips:
- To reheat, use a skillet or wok over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent the sauce from drying out while heating. Avoid overcooking, especially the shrimp, to maintain its juicy texture.
- Alternatively, use a microwave, covering the dish with a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture.
Storage Reference Table
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 Days | Store in an airtight container. Cool before storing. |
| Freezer | Up to 2 Months | Use a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the storage date. |
| Reheating (Stovetop) | 4-5 Minutes | Add a splash of water and reheat over medium heat, stirring frequently. |
| Reheating (Microwave) | 2-3 Minutes | Cover to retain moisture. Avoid overheating to preserve texture. |
Expert Tip:
For the best results, we recommend storing the cooked stir fry and sauce separately if possible. This keeps the dish from becoming overly saucy during storage and ensures that the veggies maintain their crisp-tender texture when reheated.
Conclusion
Stir Fry Beef and Shrimp is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of bold flavors, vibrant colors, and effortless cooking. With the right preparation and tools, we can create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is versatile. Whether we’re serving it for a quick dinner or a special occasion, this recipe never fails to impress.
Let’s embrace the art of stir-frying and enjoy the endless possibilities it offers. By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, we’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality dish ready to delight everyone at the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the key to making a flavorful stir fry?
Preparation is key to a flavorful stir fry. Ensure all ingredients are prepped beforehand, including marinating the proteins, chopping the vegetables, and mixing the sauce. Cook on high heat for a quick sear, and keep the wok moving to prevent burning while creating a caramelized flavor.
2. Can I customize the ingredients in this beef and shrimp stir fry?
Yes! The recipe is very versatile. You can swap vegetables like broccoli or bell pepper for others, use different protein options like tofu or chicken, and adjust the sauce’s flavor by modifying ingredients like soy sauce or hoisin sauce to your taste.
3. How do I ensure my beef and shrimp are tender?
To ensure tenderness, marinate the beef with cornstarch and slice it thinly against the grain. For shrimp, devein and marinate with lemon juice to remove odor. Avoid overcooking both proteins by stir-frying on high heat for a short time.
4. What tools are essential for making this stir fry?
A wok or large skillet is crucial for even heat distribution. You’ll also need a sharp chef’s knife, cutting boards, mixing bowls, and a spatula to keep all ingredients moving during the stir-frying process.
5. Can I prepare the dish in advance?
Yes! Prep the beef, shrimp, vegetables, and sauce ahead of time. You can store these prepped ingredients in the refrigerator for a day or two. For added convenience, cook the dish in advance and reheat it, ensuring the stir fry and sauce are stored separately.
6. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the stir fry cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat it in a skillet or wok over medium heat, adding a bit of water or sauce to restore its texture and flavor.
7. What garnishes can I add to enhance the dish?
To enhance flavor and presentation, garnish the stir fry with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or fresh cilantro. For added texture, you can also sprinkle crushed peanuts or cashews on top before serving.
8. What are common mistakes to avoid when stir-frying?
Avoid overcrowding the wok, as it prevents proper searing. Cook proteins in batches to maintain high heat, and ensure all ingredients are dry to prevent steaming. Finally, don’t skip preparing the sauce in advance to maintain a seamless cooking process.
9. How spicy can I make this stir fry?
You can adjust the spice level based on your preference. Add chili flakes, sriracha, or fresh sliced chilies for heat. Start with a small amount and gradually increase until you reach your desired spice level.
10. Is this dish suitable for a special occasion?
Absolutely! This beef and shrimp stir fry is perfect for entertaining guests because of its vibrant presentation, rich flavors, and versatility. Serve it with steamed rice or noodles, and garnish beautifully to impress your dinner table guests.