Shrimp Basil Stir-Fry

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

 

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry:

500g fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups fresh basil leaves (preferably Thai basil)
3 cloves garlic, minced
2-3 red chili peppers, sliced (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra depth of flavor)
1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional for umami)
1 teaspoon sugar

To Serve:

Cooked jasmine or steamed rice
Lime wedges (optional, for garnish)

 

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Clean and devein the shrimp. Pat them dry with paper towels.
Mince the garlic and slice the chili peppers. Set aside.
Rinse and dry the basil leaves.

2. Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Mix well and set aside.

3. Heat the Skillet

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

4. Sauté Aromatics

Add the minced garlic and sliced chili peppers to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

5. Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

6. Add the Sauce

Pour in the prepared sauce and stir to coat the shrimp evenly. Cook for another 1 minute.

7. Incorporate the Basil

Toss in the basil leaves. Stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds until the basil is just wilted.

8. Serve

Remove from heat and transfer the stir-fry to a serving plate. Serve immediately over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with lime wedges, if desired.

 

Tips

Adjusting Spice Level: For less heat, remove the chili seeds before slicing or substitute with milder peppers.
Veggie Additions: Feel free to add sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added color and nutrition.
Resting the Shrimp: Let the shrimp rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking for a more even cook.

 

Enjoy your flavorful Shrimp Basil Stir-Fry!