Stir-fried Shrimp, Asparagus, and Mushrooms:

Stir-fried Shrimp, Asparagus, and Mushrooms:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (shiitake, button, or cremini work well)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (optional but recommended)

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, adds depth)

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Prep Ingredients: Have all ingredients ready before starting, as stir-frying is quick.

2. Cook Shrimp:

   • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.

   • Add shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until pink and just cooked through.

   • Remove from pan and set aside.

3. Cook Vegetables:

   • In the same pan, add the remaining oil.

   • Add garlic (and ginger, if using), stir for 30 seconds.

   • Add asparagus and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes.

   • Add mushrooms and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp.

4. Combine and Sauce:

   • Return the shrimp to the pan.

   • Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir everything to coat evenly.

   • If using the cornstarch slurry, pour it in and stir for another minute until the sauce slightly thickens.

5. Serve:

   • Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.