1-First step: Mix the sauce Start by whisking together 1/4 cup coconut aminos, 1 1/2 teaspoons sesame oil, 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, and 1/2 tablespoon arrowroot starch in a small bowl. Stir until the starch fully dissolves and the sauce looks smooth. Set it aside so it is ready when the pan heats up.

2-Second step: Prep the shrimp and vegetables Make sure the shrimp are peeled, deveined, and patted dry. This helps them sear better and keeps the skillet from getting watery. Slice the green onion, mince the garlic, and grate or finely mince the fresh ginger so everything is ready to go.

3-Third step: Heat the pan Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon avocado oil and let it warm for about 30 seconds. The oil should shimmer, but not smoke. A hot pan helps the shrimp cook fast and keeps the broccoli crisp.

4-Fourth step: Cook the aromatics Add the minced garlic and fresh ginger to the hot pan. Stir for about 20 to 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Keep the ingredients moving so the garlic does not brown too fast. This short step builds the flavor base for the whole dish.

5-Fifth step: Cook the broccoli Add the 4 cups broccoli florets, 1/3 cup water, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Cover the skillet for 2 to 3 minutes so the broccoli can steam and turn bright green. Then uncover and stir until the water mostly cooks off. You want the broccoli tender-crisp, not soft.

6-Sixth step: Add the shrimp Move the broccoli to one side of the skillet and add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Shrimp cook fast, so stay close to the stove. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, which is one of the most common stir fry mistakes.

7-Seventh step: Pour in the sauce Stir the shrimp and broccoli together, then pour the sauce into the pan. Toss everything well so the sauce coats the ingredients evenly. Let it simmer for about 1 minute. The arrowroot starch will thicken the sauce quickly and give it that glossy finish you want in a good shrimp and broccoli stir fry.

8-Eighth step: Finish and serve Turn off the heat and sprinkle on the 1/4 cup sliced green onion and sesame seeds for garnish. Serve hot right away. This dish tastes great on its own, over rice, or with a lighter side like cauliflower rice for a lower-carb meal.