Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Moong Sprouts
This Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Moong Sprouts is a lightning-fast stir-fry, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Succulent shrimp are tossed in a savory, spicy sauce and combined with crisp moong sprouts for a delightful textural contrast.
For 2 servings
Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a good sear and prevents steaming.
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Set aside.
Heat a large wok or a heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat until it just begins to smoke. Add the neutral oil and swirl to coat the pan.
Add the dried shrimp to the hot pan in a single layer. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until they just start to turn pink and opaque. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium-high. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), and red pepper flakes to the pan. Stir-fry for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Return the cooked shrimp to the pan. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture. Toss quickly to coat the shrimp, about 15-30 seconds.
Immediately add the rinsed moong sprouts to the pan. Toss everything together for another 15-30 seconds, just until the sprouts are slightly warmed but still retain their crispness. Turn off the heat.
Transfer the Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Moong Sprouts to serving plates. Garnish with sliced green onions.
Serve immediately, perhaps with a side of steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Mise en Place is Key:** Because this recipe cooks so quickly, have all your ingredients prepped and measured before you start cooking. This ensures a smooth and successful stir-fry.
- 2**Don't Overcrowd the Pan:** Cook the shrimp in batches if your pan isn't large enough to hold them in a single layer. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature and will steam the shrimp instead of searing them, resulting in a rubbery texture.
- 3**Pat Shrimp Dry:** Excess moisture on the shrimp will prevent them from getting a good sear and can make them tough. Always pat them very dry before cooking.
- 4**Adjust Spice to Taste:** The amount of red pepper flakes can be easily adjusted. For a milder dish, use 1/2 teaspoon or omit entirely. For extra heat, add a pinch more.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Substitute shrimp with thinly sliced chicken breast, firm tofu cubes, or even scallops. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Vegetable BoostVegetable Boost
Add other quick-cooking vegetables like thinly sliced bell peppers, snow peas, or sliced mushrooms along with the garlic and ginger for more color and nutrients.
Sauce EnhancementSauce Enhancement
For a touch of sweetness, add 1/2 teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the sauce mixture. A dash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce can also be added for an extra layer of heat and flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Powerhouse
Shrimp are an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall satiety, keeping you feeling full longer.
Nutrient-Rich Sprouts
Moong sprouts are packed with vitamins (like C and K), minerals, and dietary fiber, aiding digestion and boosting nutrient intake with very few calories.
Antioxidant Boost
Garlic and red pepper flakes contain powerful antioxidants and compounds that may help reduce inflammation and support immune health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely according to package directions, then pat them very dry with paper towels before cooking to ensure they sear properly.
