Shrimp Stir-Fry with Brown Rice Recipe

Looking for a healthy, delicious meal that’s easy to whip up any evening of the week? Shrimp stir-fry with brown rice is the answer! Not only is this meal packed with nutrition, but it also bursts with flavor and is endlessly versatile to suit various dietary needs.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Bonus? It’s quick enough for dinner and fancy enough for guests!

Inspired by the vibrant dishes in “Fat Burning Cookbook“, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to balance taste with health. 

Here’s everything you need to know to create a perfect shrimp stir-fry with brown rice, starting with the powerhouse benefits of its star ingredients.

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The Health Benefits of Shrimp and Brown Rice

Why Shrimp?

Shrimp is a lean, protein-packed option that’s incredibly low in calories. Just 3 ounces of shrimp delivers around 20 grams of protein with fewer than 85 calories! Plus, shrimp is an excellent source of selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart and brain health. It’s also versatile, working beautifully in a wide range of seasonings and marinades.

Why Brown Rice?

Brown rice, unlike its refined cousin, white rice, is a nutritional treasure. It’s a whole grain, meaning it retains its bran and germ layers, which are packed with fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals like magnesium and manganese. Plus, its satiating properties mean it keeps you feeling full longer—a bonus if you’re watching your calorie intake.

When combined, shrimp and brown rice create a balanced, nutrient-dense meal that fuels your body while satisfying your taste buds.

The Basics: Preparing Shrimp Stir-Fry with Brown Rice

Before we jump into the full recipe, let’s go over a few basics to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

How to Cook Shrimp Like a Pro

• Choosing Shrimp: Opt for fresh, deveined, and tail-on shrimp for maximum flavor and ease. If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them in a bowl of cold water.
• Cooking Tips: Cook shrimp over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery.

Perfecting Brown Rice

Brown rice can be tricky to master, but these tips ensure fluffy results:

• Rinse the rice with cold water before cooking to remove excess starch.
• Use a 2:1 water-to-rice ratio, and cook on low heat with the pot covered. Avoid lifting the lid while it’s cooking!
• When the rice is done, fluff it gently with a fork to avoid clumping.

The Recipe: Shrimp Stir-Fry with Brown Rice

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need:

• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 medium carrot (julienned)
• 1 zucchini (sliced thinly)
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional)
• Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Instructions

• Cook Brown Rice 

Prepare your brown rice first, so it’s ready to go once the stir-fry is cooked.

• Prep the Sauce 

Whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and rice vinegar in a small bowl. Set aside.

• Cook the Shrimp 

Heat olive oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink—about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

• Stir-Fry the Vegetables 

Add a little more olive oil to the wok. Toss in garlic, ginger, bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, and broccoli. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

• Combine Everything 

Return the shrimp to the wok and pour in the sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Reduce the heat and cook for another 2 minutes.

• Serve 

Serve the stir-fry over the cooked brown rice. Top with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra punch of flavor.

Read more: Easy Shrimp and Lobster Risotto | A Luxurious Seafood Dish

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

Presentation matters! Serve this dish in shallow bowls or on plates with contrasting colors to make the ingredients pop. For pairing, consider a light, crisp white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) or a refreshing iced green tea. If you’re serving a crowd, add a side of edamame or a simple cucumber salad for a complete meal.

Health and Dietary Considerations

This recipe is incredibly adaptable for various dietary preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Low-Sodium: Opt for coconut aminos as a soy sauce alternative.
• Low-Carb: Swap the brown rice for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Portion control is key if you’re watching calories. A serving size of this dish provides around 350 calories, making it a great choice for anyone managing fitness or weight goals.

Why You Should Make This Tonight

Shrimp stir-fry with brown rice is more than just a meal—it’s a gateway to healthy, delicious cooking that doesn’t skimp on flavor. From the vibrancy of fresh veggies to the satisfying nuttiness of brown rice, this dish has something for everyone.

Plus, it’s quick enough for busy weeknights and elegant enough to make a dinner guest feel special. Why not give it a try tonight?