It’s funny how some of the simplest recipes become absolute staples in our kitchen. This Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe? It’s one of those. From the moment I first whipped it up on a whim for a quick weeknight dinner, it was an instant hit. The aroma alone, that intoxicating blend of sweet honey and savory garlic, had everyone hovering around the kitchen, impatient for the first bite. And the taste? Oh my goodness, the taste! Succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked and coated in a luscious, sticky glaze that’s both sweet and tangy. Even my pickiest eater, who usually shies away from seafood, devoured it. Since then, this recipe has become a regular feature on our dinner table, requested time and time again. It’s unbelievably quick to prepare, uses ingredients we almost always have on hand, and delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. If you’re looking for a dish that’s guaranteed to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, look no further. This Honey Garlic Shrimp is about to become your new best friend.
Ingredients for Honey Garlic Shrimp
- Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined. Choose large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture and to prevent overcooking. Fresh or frozen (thawed) shrimp will work.
- Honey: ½ cup. The star of the sauce, honey provides sweetness and a beautiful glaze. Use a good quality honey for the best flavor.
- Soy Sauce: ¼ cup. Adds umami and saltiness, balancing the sweetness of the honey. Low-sodium soy sauce is recommended to control the salt level.
- Garlic: 6 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is crucial for the pungent, aromatic flavor that defines this dish. Mince it finely to release its full potential.
- Ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated. Fresh ginger adds a warm, zesty note that complements the garlic and honey beautifully. Peel and grate it finely.
- Rice Vinegar: 2 tablespoons. Adds a touch of acidity, brightening the sauce and cutting through the sweetness. Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be substituted in a pinch.
- Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon. Adds a nutty aroma and flavor that enhances the Asian-inspired profile of the dish. Toasted sesame oil is preferred for its richer taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon (or to taste). Optional, but adds a subtle kick of heat that balances the sweetness and richness. Adjust to your spice preference.
- Green Onions: 2-3, thinly sliced. For garnish, adding freshness and a mild oniony flavor.
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons. For cooking the shrimp. Any neutral oil with a high smoke point will work.
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (optional, for thicker sauce). If you prefer a thicker, glossier sauce, cornstarch slurry can be used.
Instructions for Making Honey Garlic Shrimp
- Prepare the Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, ensure it is fully thawed. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is important as excess moisture will prevent the shrimp from searing properly and the sauce from adhering well. Drying the shrimp ensures a beautiful caramelization and better sauce absorption.
- Make the Honey Garlic Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Ensure all ingredients are well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. You can adjust the sweetness by adding more honey, the saltiness with more soy sauce, or the heat with more red pepper flakes. This is your opportunity to customize the sauce to your exact liking.
- Heat the Pan: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is sufficiently hot before adding the shrimp. A hot pan is essential for searing the shrimp quickly and achieving that desirable slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
- Cook the Shrimp: Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the temperature and cause the shrimp to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches to ensure proper searing. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and are cooked through. They should be slightly browned and slightly curled. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the honey garlic sauce over the cooked shrimp. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the shrimp evenly. As the sauce heats, it will reduce and become more concentrated, creating a beautiful, glossy glaze. If you desire a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) at this stage and stir until thickened.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the honey garlic shrimp with thinly sliced green onions. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, quinoa, or your favorite side dish. The aroma will be irresistible, and the flavors are best enjoyed fresh and hot.
Nutrition Facts for Honey Garlic Shrimp (per serving)
(Approximate values, based on a recipe serving 4 people)
- Serving Size: Approximately 4 oz cooked shrimp (about 1/4 of the recipe)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 25g
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For more precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with specific brands and measurements.
Preparation Time for Honey Garlic Shrimp
This Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe is incredibly quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (This includes peeling and deveining shrimp if necessary, mincing garlic, grating ginger, and whisking together the sauce ingredients.)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (This includes searing the shrimp and simmering it in the honey garlic sauce.)
- Total Time: 20 minutes (From start to finish, you can have a delicious and flavorful meal on the table in just 20 minutes!)
This recipe is a lifesaver when you need a fast, satisfying, and impressive dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. The minimal prep and quick cooking time make it a go-to option for any night of the week.
How to Serve Honey Garlic Shrimp
Honey Garlic Shrimp is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:
- Over Rice:
- Classic White Rice: A simple and perfect base to soak up the flavorful honey garlic sauce.
- Brown Rice: For a healthier option with added fiber and nutty flavor.
- Jasmine Rice: Fragrant and slightly sticky, complementing the Asian-inspired flavors.
- Coconut Rice: Infused with coconut milk for a richer and sweeter side dish that enhances the honey notes in the shrimp.
- With Noodles:
- Lo Mein Noodles: Soft egg noodles that are perfect for tossing with the shrimp and sauce.
- Udon Noodles: Thick and chewy wheat noodles that provide a satisfying texture contrast.
- Spaghetti or Linguine: Surprisingly delicious and readily available pantry staples that work well with the sauce.
- Rice Noodles: Gluten-free option, light and delicate, great for a lighter meal.
- Alongside Vegetables:
- Steamed Broccoli: A classic and healthy side that balances the richness of the shrimp.
- Roasted Asparagus: Adds a touch of elegance and earthy flavor.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Create a complete stir-fry meal by adding vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, and bok choy.
- Edamame: Steamed or pan-fried edamame pods provide a protein-rich and fun-to-eat side.
- In Lettuce Wraps:
- Serve the honey garlic shrimp in crisp lettuce cups (like butter lettuce or romaine lettuce) for a light and refreshing appetizer or meal. Add some shredded carrots, cucumbers, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo for extra flavor and texture.
- As an Appetizer:
- Serve smaller portions of honey garlic shrimp on skewers as a delicious and crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Additional Tips for Perfect Honey Garlic Shrimp
To ensure your Honey Garlic Shrimp turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips and tricks:
- Choose the Right Shrimp: Opt for large or jumbo shrimp (16/20 or 21/25 count per pound). Larger shrimp are easier to cook without overcooking and have a better texture. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp, but if using frozen, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the shrimp, ensure you don’t overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature, causing the shrimp to steam instead of sear, which results in less flavorful and less texturally appealing shrimp. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Pat the Shrimp Dry: Before cooking, pat the shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture, which helps the shrimp sear properly and develop a nice golden-brown crust. Dry shrimp also absorbs the sauce better.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly. Overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery and tough. Cook just until the shrimp turns pink and opaque and is slightly curled, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove them from the heat as soon as they are cooked through.
- Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste: The honey garlic sauce is easily customizable. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more honey. For a saltier sauce, add a touch more soy sauce. If you like it spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha. Taste the sauce before adding it to the shrimp and adjust as needed.
- Use Fresh Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger are crucial for the best flavor in this recipe. Pre-minced garlic or ginger paste, while convenient, lacks the pungent aroma and fresh taste of freshly minced or grated ingredients. Take the extra few minutes to mince garlic and grate ginger for a significantly better flavor.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker, glossier sauce, you can easily thicken it by adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the pan after adding the sauce. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t underestimate the power of fresh garnishes. Sliced green onions add a pop of color and freshness. You can also add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor and visual appeal. A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice at the end can also brighten the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Honey Garlic Shrimp
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. The best way to thaw frozen shrimp is to place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are thawed. You can also thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels before cooking to remove excess moisture and ensure they sear properly.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Honey Garlic Shrimp is best served immediately for the best texture and flavor. Shrimp tends to become rubbery if reheated. However, you can prepare the honey garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When you are ready to cook, simply cook the shrimp and then add the pre-made sauce. This can save you time on busy weeknights.
Q3: Can I use a different type of vinegar if I don’t have rice vinegar?
A: Yes, if you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute it with other types of vinegar. Good alternatives include apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. These will provide a similar acidity to balance the sweetness of the honey. Balsamic vinegar could also be used for a slightly different, richer flavor profile, but use it sparingly as it has a stronger taste.
Q4: How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
A: Garlic can burn easily, especially when cooked over high heat. To prevent burning, ensure that you are cooking the garlic in oil over medium-high heat, and don’t cook it for too long before adding the shrimp. The sauce also helps to prevent the garlic from burning as it coats and protects it. Mincing the garlic finely also helps it cook quickly and evenly without burning.
Q5: Can I add vegetables to this Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe?
A: Absolutely! Honey Garlic Shrimp is delicious with added vegetables. Some great options include broccoli florets, bell peppers (sliced), snap peas, carrots (sliced or julienned), and bok choy. You can stir-fry the vegetables in the pan before adding the shrimp, or add them along with the sauce and let them cook until tender-crisp.
Q6: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: As written, this recipe is not necessarily gluten-free because soy sauce typically contains wheat. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Both tamari and coconut aminos are gluten-free alternatives to soy sauce that provide a similar umami flavor. Always check the labels to ensure they are certified gluten-free if you have strict dietary needs.
Q7: Can I use honey substitutes in this recipe?
A: While honey is a key ingredient that provides a unique flavor and texture to the sauce, you can try using honey substitutes if needed. Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as alternatives, although they will slightly alter the flavor profile. Maple syrup will impart a more distinct maple flavor, while agave nectar is sweeter and less viscous than honey.
Q8: What are some variations I can try with this recipe?
A: There are many ways to customize this Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe! Here are a few variations to try:
- Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce for extra heat.
- Lemon Honey Garlic Shrimp: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a brighter, citrusy flavor.
- Pineapple Honey Garlic Shrimp: Add chunks of fresh pineapple to the pan along with the sauce for a sweet and tangy tropical twist.
- Coconut Honey Garlic Shrimp: Add a splash of coconut milk to the sauce for a creamier and richer flavor.
- Sesame Honey Garlic Shrimp: Sprinkle sesame seeds generously over the finished dish for added nutty flavor and texture.
Enjoy experimenting with these variations to create your own signature Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe!
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Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
- Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined. Choose large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture and to prevent overcooking. Fresh or frozen (thawed) shrimp will work.
- Honey: ½ cup. The star of the sauce, honey provides sweetness and a beautiful glaze. Use a good quality honey for the best flavor.
- Soy Sauce: ¼ cup. Adds umami and saltiness, balancing the sweetness of the honey. Low-sodium soy sauce is recommended to control the salt level.
- Garlic: 6 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is crucial for the pungent, aromatic flavor that defines this dish. Mince it finely to release its full potential.
- Ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated. Fresh ginger adds a warm, zesty note that complements the garlic and honey beautifully. Peel and grate it finely.
- Rice Vinegar: 2 tablespoons. Adds a touch of acidity, brightening the sauce and cutting through the sweetness. Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be substituted in a pinch.
- Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon. Adds a nutty aroma and flavor that enhances the Asian-inspired profile of the dish. Toasted sesame oil is preferred for its richer taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon (or to taste). Optional, but adds a subtle kick of heat that balances the sweetness and richness. Adjust to your spice preference.
- Green Onions: 2-3, thinly sliced. For garnish, adding freshness and a mild oniony flavor.
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons. For cooking the shrimp. Any neutral oil with a high smoke point will work.
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (optional, for thicker sauce). If you prefer a thicker, glossier sauce, cornstarch slurry can be used.
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, ensure it is fully thawed. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is important as excess moisture will prevent the shrimp from searing properly and the sauce from adhering well. Drying the shrimp ensures a beautiful caramelization and better sauce absorption.
- Make the Honey Garlic Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Ensure all ingredients are well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. You can adjust the sweetness by adding more honey, the saltiness with more soy sauce, or the heat with more red pepper flakes. This is your opportunity to customize the sauce to your exact liking.
- Heat the Pan: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is sufficiently hot before adding the shrimp. A hot pan is essential for searing the shrimp quickly and achieving that desirable slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
- Cook the Shrimp: Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the temperature and cause the shrimp to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches to ensure proper searing. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and are cooked through. They should be slightly browned and slightly curled. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the honey garlic sauce over the cooked shrimp. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the shrimp evenly. As the sauce heats, it will reduce and become more concentrated, creating a beautiful, glossy glaze. If you desire a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) at this stage and stir until thickened.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the honey garlic shrimp with thinly sliced green onions. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, quinoa, or your favorite side dish. The aroma will be irresistible, and the flavors are best enjoyed fresh and hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g