Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry

Sizzling Symphony: Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Delight

Transport your taste buds to the vibrant world of Asian-inspired flavors with a dish that balances the succulence of shrimp, the crispness of asparagus, and the zing of citrus—introducing Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry. This quick and flavorful recipe is a celebration of fresh ingredients, harmoniously coming together in a wok to create a mouthwatering symphony. Join us on a culinary adventure as we explore the art of stir-frying, unlocking the secrets to achieving the perfect texture and taste in every bite of this Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry masterpiece.

Ingredients:

To embark on this flavor-packed adventure, gather the following ingredients:

Seafood:

  • 1 lb Shrimp, large

Produce:

  • 1 lb Asparagus spears
  • 1 tsp Lemon zest
  • 1 Red chili
  • 1 White onion

Canned Goods:

  • 1/4 cup Chicken broth

Condiments:

  • 1/4 cup Lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp Soy sauce

Baking & Spices:

  • 2 tbsp Brown sugar
  • 1 tsp Cornstarch
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Oils & Vinegars:

  • 2 tbsp Peanut oil

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp. If desired, leave the tails on for an elegant presentation. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp texture during stir-frying.
  2. Asparagus Prep: Trim the tough ends of the asparagus and cut the spears into bite-sized pieces. For added visual appeal, angle-cut the asparagus into diagonal slices.
  3. Create the Stir-Fry Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, lemon juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch. This flavorful concoction will serve as the sauce that binds the entire dish.
  4. Heat the Wok: Place a wok or large skillet over high heat. Allow it to become smoking hot before adding the peanut oil, ensuring that the oil is evenly distributed across the surface.
  5. Sear the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the hot wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the wok and set them aside.
  6. Veggie Infusion: In the same wok, add a bit more peanut oil if needed. Toss in the sliced asparagus, diced white onion, and red chili slices. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still vibrant.
  7. Sauce it Up: Pour the previously prepared stir-fry sauce over the vegetables. Stir continuously to coat the asparagus and onion in the savory sauce, allowing the flavors to meld.
  8. Reintroduce the Shrimp: Return the seared shrimp to the wok, incorporating them into the vegetable and sauce mixture. Continue to stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring that the shrimp and vegetables are well-coated in the flavorful sauce.
  9. Season to Perfection: Season the Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together to ensure even seasoning.
  10. Lemon Zest Finale: Sprinkle lemon zest over the stir fry, adding a burst of citrusy freshness that complements the rich flavors.
  11. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry to a serving platter. Garnish with additional lemon slices and chopped fresh cilantro or green onions if desired. Serve the dish over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Cook Notes:

  • To achieve a delightful crunch in the asparagus, ensure that the wok remains hot and the stir-frying process is swift.
  • For an extra kick, leave the seeds in the red chili slices. Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.

Variations:

  1. Garlic Infusion: Enhance the dish with the aromatic richness of garlic by adding minced garlic to the wok during the vegetable stir-fry.
  2. Cashew Crunch: Introduce a textural delight by tossing in roasted cashews or peanuts at the end of the cooking process.

Keto Versions:

For those following a keto lifestyle, Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry can be adapted to suit your low-carb preferences. Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to reduce the carb content. The shrimp, asparagus, and most other ingredients remain keto-approved, offering a flavorful and satisfying option without the carbs.

Low Carb Versions:

Watching your carb intake? Opt for a low-carb soy sauce alternative or use liquid aminos. Serve the stir fry over cauliflower rice or spiralized vegetables to keep the carb count low without compromising on taste.

As you savor the Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry, relish in the delicate balance of flavors and textures—succulent shrimp, crisp asparagus, and the zesty notes of lemon. This dish is a testament to the art of stir-frying, where each ingredient shines while contributing to a harmonious whole. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight meal or showcased at a dinner gathering, Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry promises to be a crowd-pleaser. So, embrace the sizzle of the wok, and let the symphony of flavors take center stage.