Mandy Croft
If you’re searching for a light, nutritious, and speedy dish, shrimp and bean sprouts stir-fry is a fantastic option that combines fresh ingredients with bold flavors. This quick stir-fry balances the tender sweetness of shrimp with the crisp freshness of mung bean sprouts, enhanced by a savory yet delicate sauce. Ready in about 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a wholesome lunch. Let’s explore how to make this satisfying meal easily at home.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Bean Sprouts Stir-Fry
- One-pan convenience: This recipe requires just a wok or large skillet, minimizing cleanup.
- Healthy and light: Packed with protein from shrimp and fiber from bean sprouts, it’s low in carbs and calories but filling enough to satisfy.
- Customizable: Swap shrimp for chicken, pork, or tofu if you prefer or add your favorite quick-cooking vegetables.
- No marinating needed: Simple, straightforward ingredients mean no waiting times.
- Quick to prepare: With only about 20 minutes needed, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule.
Essential Ingredients and Substitutions
Main Ingredients
- Shrimp: Fresh peeled and deveined shrimp work best. Black tiger shrimp add nice size and sweetness but regular shrimp or prawns are great alternatives.
- Mung Bean Sprouts: Crisp and refreshing, these provide the signature crunch. Make sure they’re fresh and firm; slimy sprouts should be discarded.
- Garlic: Adds fragrant depth, sauté just until golden to prevent bitterness.
- Green Onions: Stir-fried briefly for mild onion flavor, added at the end for freshness.
- Sauces: Oyster sauce for umami richness and light soy sauce for saltiness.
- White Sugar: Balances the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
- Cornstarch: Mixed with water to thicken the sauce so it coats shrimp and bean sprouts nicely.
- Neutral Oil: Such as vegetable or canola oil for stir-frying.
Optional Add-ins
- Spices: Thai chili flakes or fresh chilies for heat.
- Vegetables: Napa cabbage, bok choy, carrots, mushrooms, or water chestnuts can be added for extra texture and nutrition.
Step-by-Step Stir-Fry Instructions
1. Sauté the Garlic
Heat 1 tablespoon neutral oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until golden and fragrant.
2. Cook the Shrimp
Add shrimp and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through.
3. Add Sauces and Bean Sprouts
Toss in mung bean sprouts along with oyster sauce, light soy sauce, water, and white sugar. Stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until sprouts are slightly softened but still crisp.
4. Thicken the Sauce
Move ingredients to one side of the pan. Stir a tablespoon of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons water until smooth, then slowly add to the sauce side of the pan. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Finish with Green Onions and Serve
Add sliced green onions, toss everything together once more to combine evenly. Serve immediately with jasmine rice or enjoy as is for a low-carb meal.
Top Tips for Perfect Bean Sprouts Stir-Fry
- Use high heat to avoid soggy sprouts that release moisture quickly.
- Add the bean sprouts last to keep them crunchy.
- Avoid pre-soaking or blanching sprouts; rinse and drain well to prevent watery stir-fry.
- Reheat leftovers gently over medium heat to retain texture; sprouts tend to lose crunch after refrigeration.
Variations and Storage
- Protein swaps: Chicken, pork, tofu, or tempeh work well—slice meats thinly to ensure quick cooking.
- Vegetable substitutes: Quick-cooking greens or crunchy veggies can replace or accompany bean sprouts.
- Storing leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Avoid freezing to maintain texture.
Nutritional Snapshot (per serving approx.)
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 4g
Final Thoughts
Shrimp and bean sprouts stir-fry is an ideal dish when you crave something fresh, healthy, and packed with flavor without spending too much time in the kitchen. Its balance of textures and simple yet impactful Thai-inspired sauce makes it a go-to recipe for both beginners and seasoned home cooks wanting a reliable weeknight winner. Try it with jasmine rice or steamed noodles, and feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies and spice levels.
Enjoy your quick, flavorful, and wholesome shrimp and bean sprouts stir-fry tonight!
This recipe draws on authentic Thai cooking techniques and international stir-fry styles, combining ease with vibrant taste and nutrition. Happy cooking!
