Prawn & Broccoli Stir-Fry with Cashews is a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed dish that combines tender prawns, crisp broccoli, crunchy cashews, and a savory garlic-ginger sauce. This easy stir-fry is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a nutritious meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Loaded with protein, vegetables, and satisfying textures, it delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.
The combination of juicy prawns and fresh broccoli creates a balanced meal, while toasted cashews add richness and crunch. A simple homemade stir-fry sauce ties everything together with notes of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness. Serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in about 30 minutes
- High in protein and nutrients
- Perfect for busy weeknights
- Better than takeout
- Loaded with fresh vegetables
- Delicious sweet-savory flavor
- Easy to customize
- Family-friendly meal
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry
- 1 pound (450g) large prawns, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup roasted cashews
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, sliced
For the Stir-Fry Sauce
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
Optional Garnishes
- Sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro
- Red pepper flakes
- Lime wedges
Equipment Needed
- Large wok or skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Prawns
Rinse the prawns under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
Check that they are peeled and deveined.
Dry prawns sear better and absorb flavors more effectively.
Set aside while preparing the vegetables.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash the broccoli thoroughly and cut it into bite-sized florets.
Slice the bell pepper and onion into thin strips.
Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
Having all ingredients prepared before cooking is important because stir-frying moves quickly.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Honey
- Rice vinegar
- Sesame oil
- Cornstarch
- Water
Mix until the cornstarch is completely dissolved.
Set aside.
Step 4: Toast the Cashews
If your cashews are not already roasted, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat.
Toast for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently until lightly golden and fragrant.
Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 5: Cook the Broccoli
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the broccoli florets.
Stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
If needed, add 2 tablespoons of water and cover briefly to steam.
Transfer the broccoli to a plate.
Step 6: Cook the Prawns
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the wok.
Place the prawns in a single layer.
Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
Avoid overcooking, as prawns can become rubbery.
Transfer them to a clean plate.
Step 7: Sauté the Aromatics
Reduce the heat slightly.
Add the sliced onion to the wok.
Cook for 2 minutes until softened.
Add the garlic and ginger.
Stir continuously for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
The aroma should be rich and inviting.
Step 8: Add the Bell Pepper
Add the sliced bell pepper.
Cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
The pepper should remain slightly crisp while becoming tender enough to eat comfortably.
Step 9: Combine Everything
Return the broccoli and cooked prawns to the wok.
Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
Give the prepared sauce a quick whisk and pour it into the pan.
Step 10: Finish the Stir-Fry
Cook for 2 to 3 minutes while stirring frequently.
The sauce will thicken and coat the vegetables and prawns beautifully.
Add the toasted cashews and green onions.
Toss everything together until evenly distributed.
Serving Suggestions
This stir-fry pairs wonderfully with:
Rice
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Brown rice
- Coconut rice
Noodles
- Rice noodles
- Lo mein noodles
- Udon noodles
Low-Carb Options
- Cauliflower rice
- Zucchini noodles
- Steamed vegetables
Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for Success
Don’t Overcook the Prawns
Prawns cook very quickly.
Remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
Use Fresh Broccoli
Fresh broccoli maintains a crisp texture and vibrant color.
Prepare Ingredients Ahead
Stir-frying happens fast.
Having everything ready before heating the wok ensures smooth cooking.
Keep the Heat High
A hot wok creates the signature stir-fry flavor and texture.
Toast the Cashews
Toasting enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch.
Variations
Spicy Prawn Stir-Fry
Add:
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce
- Red pepper flakes
For extra heat.
Thai-Inspired Version
Add:
- Coconut milk
- Lime juice
- Fresh basil
Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Substitute chicken breast for the prawns.
Mixed Vegetable Stir-Fry
Add:
- Snow peas
- Carrots
- Mushrooms
- Baby corn
Sweet and Savory Stir-Fry
Increase the honey slightly for a sweeter sauce.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Freezing
Although possible, freezing may slightly affect the texture of the prawns and broccoli.
Fresh preparation is recommended.
Nutritional Benefits
Prawns
Prawns are an excellent source of:
- Lean protein
- Selenium
- Vitamin B12
- Iodine
Broccoli
Broccoli provides:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin K
- Fiber
- Antioxidants
Cashews
Cashews contribute:
- Healthy fats
- Protein
- Magnesium
- Copper
Together, these ingredients create a balanced and nutrient-dense meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen prawns?
Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce and verify that the oyster sauce is gluten-free.
What other nuts can I use?
Almonds, peanuts, or walnuts work well as substitutes.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead?
Yes. The sauce can be mixed and refrigerated up to two days in advance.
Is this recipe meal-prep friendly?
Absolutely. Store portions in containers with rice for easy lunches.
