Shrimp is always a quick, delicious option, and with the right marinade, it can go from ordinary to extraordinary in minutes. This honey garlic shrimp recipe is perfect for anyone looking to whip up a sweet, savory, and slightly tangy dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to making honey garlic shrimp at home.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp – peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp honey – for sweetness
- 3 tbsp soy sauce – adds a savory flavor
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced – for that classic garlic punch
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil – for cooking
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a small bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir well until the honey is fully dissolved.
- Take your peeled and deveined shrimp, place them in a bowl, and pour half of the marinade over them. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.
- Let the shrimp marinate for about 15-20 minutes. This step enhances the flavor, making sure each shrimp is well-coated and packed with that honey garlic goodness.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the oil and let it warm up for about a minute.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches if your skillet is small). Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can turn rubbery.
- Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Add the Remaining Marinade
- Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet and cook for about 1-2 minutes. Let it reduce slightly to become a glaze. This sauce is where the magic happens—it’s packed with flavor and coats each shrimp perfectly.
- Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss to coat them in the sauce. Let it cook for an additional 1 minute so the flavors meld together.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the honey garlic shrimp hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.
- For an added kick, sprinkle a bit of crushed red pepper over the top.
Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Shrimp
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp works too, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- Don’t skip the marinating step. It helps the shrimp absorb more flavor.
- Control the heat when cooking shrimp. Overcooked shrimp will become tough, so keep a close eye and only cook until they turn pink and opaque.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe with frozen shrimp?
- Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure they’re thawed and patted dry before marinating. This ensures they’ll cook evenly and absorb the marinade better.
2. What can I use instead of soy sauce?
- If you want a gluten-free option, use tamari sauce instead. For a slightly different flavor, you can also try coconut aminos.
3. How long can I store leftover shrimp?
- Store leftover honey garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
4. Can I make this recipe with chicken instead?
- Absolutely! You can follow the same recipe with small chicken pieces. Just make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly.
5. Is this dish spicy?
- No, this recipe isn’t spicy, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes if you’d like a bit of heat.
Conclusion
This honey garlic shrimp recipe is an easy, quick, and flavorful way to enjoy shrimp with a delicious twist. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight meal or even a special dinner. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors, and don’t forget to experiment with different sides to make it a complete meal!
Also Try: Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe: A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Dish
