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Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe

The beauty of a shrimp and pepper stir-fry recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a hot pan, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in minutes. The combination of tender shrimp and sweet, crunchy peppers creates a balance of textures that keeps every bite exciting, while the sauce ties everything together in a glossy, flavorful finish.

Cooking shrimp properly is the foundation of this dish, and understanding timing and heat makes all the difference. Professional seafood markets often emphasize technique over complexity, and guides like professional shrimp cooking tips from Fulton Fish Market explain why quick cooking over high heat is key to perfect shrimp. Mastering this technique ensures your shrimp stir-fry turns out succulent and flavorful every time.

Why This Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Works

This shrimp and pepper stir-fry recipe stands out because it focuses on technique, balance, and bold flavor rather than unnecessary complexity.

What makes it exceptional:

Fast cooking time from start to finish
Minimal ingredients with maximum flavor
Bright colors that look as good as they taste
Versatile sauce that adapts to your pantry
Perfect texture contrast between shrimp and peppers

Stir-frying shrimp ensures they remain juicy while absorbing the sauce, while bell peppers provide a crisp bite that never turns mushy when cooked correctly. This dish proves that a great meal doesn’t need hours in the kitchen—just smart preparation and high heat.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe

For the Stir-Fry

1½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons neutral oil (such as vegetable or avocado oil)

For the Sauce

¼ cup soy sauce or tamari
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 teaspoons sugar
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
¼ cup water

Step-by-Step Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:

Soy sauce
Oyster sauce
Rice vinegar
Sugar
Cornstarch
Water

Step 2: Prep the Shrimp and Vegetables

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels
Slice peppers and onions evenly
Mince garlic and grate ginger

Proper preparation is essential for a smooth stir-fry process. Once cooking begins, everything moves fast.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

Heat a large wok or skillet over high heat
Add oil and swirl to coat
Add shrimp in a single layer
Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until just opaque
Remove shrimp and set aside

Avoid overcrowding the pan—this ensures the shrimp sear rather than steam.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Add a bit more oil if needed
Toss in onions and peppers
Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender
Add garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds

The peppers should retain their color and crunch.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return shrimp to the pan
Pour in the prepared sauce
Toss continuously for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens
Remove from heat immediately

shrimp and pepper stir-fry recipe served in a skillet

Flavor Variations to Try

One of the best things about a shrimp and pepper stir-fry is how easily it adapts to different flavor profiles.

Spicy Version

Add chili paste or extra red pepper flakes
Finish with a drizzle of chili oil

Garlic-Forward Version

Double the garlic
Add roasted garlic to the sauce

Citrus Twist

Add fresh lemon or lime juice at the end
Sprinkle zest over the finished dish

Vegetable-Heavy Version

Add snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini
Reduce shrimp slightly to balance the pan

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking shrimp
Adding sauce too early
Cooking vegetables too long
Using low heat
Skipping the cornstarch slurry

Avoiding these ensures a glossy sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp.

Best Ways to Serve Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe

This shrimp and pepper stir-fry recipe pairs beautifully with many sides:

Steamed jasmine rice
Fried rice
Rice noodles
Lo mein noodles
Simple side salads

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Prep vegetables up to 24 hours in advance
Mix sauce ahead and refrigerate
Cook fresh for best texture
Store leftovers in airtight containers
Reheat quickly over high heat

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

What peppers work best?

Bell peppers are ideal, but poblano or banana peppers also work for variation.

How do I keep shrimp tender?

Cook quickly over high heat and remove them as soon as they turn opaque.

Can I substitute the sauce ingredients?

Yes. Tamari can replace soy sauce, and hoisin can replace oyster sauce in a pinch.

Why is my sauce watery?

The pan may not be hot enough, or the cornstarch wasn’t fully activated.

Final Thoughts

This shrimp and pepper stir-fry recipe proves that bold flavor doesn’t require complicated steps or endless ingredients. With proper preparation, high heat, and quality ingredients, you can create a vibrant, satisfying dish that rivals any takeout favorite.