Tangy Sweet and Sour Shrimp Stir-Fry

Sweet and Sour Shrimp Stir-Fry | Quick & Flavor-Packed Asian Dish

This will be your new weeknight favorite: Sweet and Sour Shrimp Stir-Fry! This dish not only promises a burst of vibrant flavors but also answers your craving for something quick and satisfying. Perfect for those evenings when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. If you’re wondering how to incorporate more seafood into your meals or looking for a fun way to spice up your dinner routine, this recipe is the answer!

Global Asian Inspiration

This recipe was born from a love of classic Asian cuisine and the desire to create a quick, healthy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Inspired by the traditional sweet and sour flavors that I grew up loving at local Chinese restaurants, I wanted to recreate that experience at home, with a healthier twist. By using fresh ingredients and a homemade sauce, this stir-fry maintains the essence of beloved Asian dishes but with a personal touch that makes it special.

Why You’ll Love It

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this stir-fry is perfect for a fast, filling dinner on busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The homemade sweet and sour sauce, combined with fresh ginger and garlic, gives this dish a punch of tangy and savory flavors that are irresistibly delicious.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable, you can switch up the veggies or protein to keep things exciting and cater to your dietary needs.
• Healthier Option: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and shrimp, it’s a wholesome meal that doesn’t feel like a compromise.

Quick Grocery List

For the Sauce:

• Rice vinegar
• Ketchup
• Light soy sauce
• Pineapple juice
• Brown sugar
• Cornstarch

For the Stir-Fry:

• Large shrimp
• Sesame oil
• Garlic
• Fresh ginger
• Red bell pepper
• Green bell pepper
• Red onion
• Pineapple chunks

Things to Consider Before Preparing Your Meal

Prep & Cook Time: Total of 30 minutes

Equipment Checklist:

• Large wok or skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Whisk

Dietary Adjustments:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with tofu.

Serving Size: Serves 4

Easy Sweet and Sour Shrimp Stir-Fry Recipe | Tangy Asian Shrimp with Vegetables in 30 Minutes

DifficultyEasy

Servings4

Prep time20 minutes

Cook time10 minutes

Total time30 minutes

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Ingredients:

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

• 1/3 cup rice vinegar
• 3 tablespoons ketchup
• 3 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice, (from canned pineapple)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water, (to dissolve cornstarch)

For the Shrimp Stir-Fry:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil, (or vegetable oil)
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 1 cup pineapple chunks, (canned or fresh)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Cooked jasmine rice or noodles, for serving
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

• 1

  Step 1: Prepare the Sweet and Sour Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, pineapple juice, and brown sugar.

  2. In another small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to make a slurry.

  3. Pour the liquid sauce mixture into a saucepan over medium heat. Once it begins to simmer, stir in the cornstarch slurry.

  4. Cook until the sauce thickens (about 2–3 minutes), then remove from heat and set aside.

• 2

  Step 2: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

  1. Heat 1/2 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.

  2. Add sliced red and green bell peppers and red onion. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.

  3. Toss in the pineapple chunks and stir-fry for another minute. Transfer everything to a bowl and set aside.

• 3

  Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

  1. In the same wok, add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of sesame oil.

  2. Add minced garlic and ginger, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  3. Add shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper, and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until shrimp turn pink and opaque.

• 4

  Step 4: Combine and Finish

  1. Return the cooked vegetables and pineapple to the pan with the shrimp.

  2. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over everything.

  3. Toss well and stir-fry for another 1–2 minutes until everything is evenly coated and heated through.

  4. Serve hot over jasmine rice or noodles, and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.

Equipment Used:

• Large wok or skillet
• Small saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs or spatula
• Knife and chopping board

Nutrition

Calories	310
Carbohydrates	26g
Cholesterol	180mg
Fat	12g
Fiber	2g
Protein	25g
Saturated Fat	2g
Sodium	870mg
Sugar	13g
Trans Fat	0g
Unsaturated Fat	10g

General Notes

This stir-fry is best served fresh but can be prepped ahead by chopping vegetables and preparing the sauce the night before. For the best flavor, use fresh pineapple juice if available.

Substitutions

• Protein: Chicken or tofu can be used instead of shrimp.
• Soy Sauce: For a lower sodium option, use reduced-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add red chili flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce.
• Extra Veggies: Throw in snap peas, carrots, or baby corn for more texture and flavor.

Let’s Get Cooking

Pro Tips for Each Step:

Marinating the Shrimp:

• Tip 1: Ensure shrimp are well-dried before marinating to help them absorb flavors better.
• Tip 2: Allow at least 15 minutes for marinating, or overnight in the fridge for enhanced taste.

Stir-Frying the Vegetables:

• Tip 1: Keep the heat high to get a nice sear on the veggies without overcooking them.
• Tip 2: Stir constantly to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

Combining Ingredients:

• Tip 1: Add the sauce gradually to avoid making the dish too soggy; adjust according to taste.

Art Of Perfect Stir-Frying

Spatula in hand, the art of stir-frying lies in swift movements and high heat. This cooking method not only retains the crisp texture and vivid colors of vegetables but also locks in their nutrients. Using a wok, ensure it’s smoking hot before you add your ingredients, which should sizzle as soon as they hit the surface. The key is quick stirring and tossing, allowing each piece to dance through the flames and soak up flavors without losing its bite.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 310
• Carbohydrates: 26g — Energy-providing and perfect for refueling mid-week.
• Protein: 25g — Great source for rebuilding muscles, especially after a workout.
• Fat: 12g — Healthy fats from sesame oil and shrimp contribute to satiety.

Storing and Reheating

• Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the best texture of shrimp and veggies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, just ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry to avoid waterlogging the dish.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have pineapple juice?
A: Orange juice works as a great substitute, offering a similar sweet and tangy profile.

Q: How can I make this stir-fry spicier?
A: Increase the heat by adding more red chili flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce.

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Looking for more Asian Themed Recipes:

• Umami-Packed Vegan Ramen with Shiitake Miso Broth
• Spicy Jackfruit Thai Curry
• Tender Instant Pot Sesame Ginger Beef & Rice
• Bold and Spicy Peanut Noodles with Tofu