Stir-Fried Shrimp with Garlic is a simple yet irresistible Chinese dish that highlights the natural sweetness of shrimp, enhanced with the rich aroma of garlic. It’s a quick recipe that can be prepared in just 15–20 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a special family meal.

📝 Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Shrimp Marinade:

500 g fresh shrimp (peeled and deveined)

1 tsp salt

1 tsp cornstarch

1 tsp rice wine or dry sherry

½ tsp white pepper


For Stir-Frying:

3 tbsp cooking oil (preferably peanut or vegetable oil)

6–8 garlic cloves (finely chopped)

1 tbsp ginger (minced)

2 spring onions (sliced, whites and greens separated)

1 tbsp light soy sauce

1 tsp sugar

1 tsp sesame oil

Optional: 1 small chili (chopped) for a spicy kick


🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse the shrimp thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel.

In a bowl, mix shrimp with salt, cornstarch, rice wine, and white pepper.

Let it marinate for 10 minutes to enhance the flavor.

Step 2: Heat the Wok

Heat the cooking oil in a wok over medium-high heat.

Add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry until fragrant and lightly golden.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Shrimp

Add the marinated shrimp to the wok.

Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and curl up.

Add soy sauce, sugar, and spring onion whites. Toss quickly to coat the shrimp evenly.

Step 4: Finish with Flavor

Drizzle sesame oil and add chili (if using) for extra heat.

Stir in the green parts of the spring onions.

Give it a final toss for 30 seconds and remove from heat.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice or garlic noodles.

Pair with a side of sautéed greens like bok choy or Chinese broccoli for a complete meal.

Garnish with extra chopped spring onions or toasted sesame seeds for a fresh finish.

💡 Tips for Perfect Garlic Shrimp

Don’t overcook the shrimp — they only need a couple of minutes.

Use fresh garlic for the best aroma.

You can also add bell peppers or snap peas for extra texture and color.

🧡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make.

Bursting with garlic flavor.

Naturally gluten-free and high in protein.

Perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.

👉 If you love seafood, you’ll also enjoy other classic Chinese dishes like Kung Pao Shrimp and Salt and Pepper Shrimp.