Mongolian Shrimp is a tasty dish that features juicy shrimp cooked in a delicious, sweet, and spicy sauce. It’s quick to whip up and full of flavor!
I love serving this with steamed rice to soak up all the yummy sauce. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this easy meal that feels special! 🥢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this recipe, but you can also use medium shrimp. If you’re looking for a substitute, try using chicken or tofu for a different protein option. Just remember, cooking times will vary.
Sauces: Soy sauce brings a savory depth, but you can use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option. If you need a gluten-free choice, replace it with tamari. Hoisin sauce adds sweetness, and if it’s not available, a mix of soy sauce and a bit of sugar can mimic its flavor.
Vegetable oil: While I recommend vegetable oil for frying, you can substitute with canola oil or peanut oil for a different flavor profile. Olive oil isn’t ideal here, as it has a lower smoke point.
Red pepper flakes: If you prefer less heat, skip these or use a dash of black pepper. You could also add a fresh chili for a bit of a kick if you have it on hand!
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Comes Out Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp perfectly is all about timing. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them sear nicely.
- Heat the oil until it’s shimmering, but not smoking. This ensures a good sear without burning.
- When cooking, shrimp only need about 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for a pink color and a slight curl, which tells you they’re done. If you overcook them, they can become rubbery!
- Remove shrimp from the pan as soon as they’re cooked, and add them back to the sauce just to warm up and coat.
Using these tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked, flavorful shrimp every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure! 🥢
How to Make Mongolian Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Fresh spinach or other greens (optional, lightly sautéed or steamed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 20 minutes to enjoy a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps them sear nicely in the skillet!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together and set the sauce aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Add the shrimp to the skillet and sauté them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, pour in the sauce mixture you prepared earlier. Bring it to a simmer and scrape up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce cook for about 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the sauce until well coated. Add the sliced green onions and stir for another minute to combine all the flavors.
6. Serve It Up:
In a serving bowl, create a bed of cooked white rice. If you like, add some sautéed spinach or greens on the side. Spoon the Mongolian shrimp and sauce over the rice, and don’t forget to garnish with toasted sesame seeds and extra green onions.
7. Enjoy!
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious and aromatic Mongolian Shrimp! You can use chopsticks or your preferred utensils to dig in. Happy eating!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat dry after thawing for the best results.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you enjoy spice, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or including fresh sliced chili peppers in the cooking process. You can also drizzle some sriracha or chili oil over the finished dish for an extra kick!
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If the sauce seems thick, adding a splash of water or broth while reheating can help it regain its consistency.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe by replacing shrimp with tofu or tempeh. Just be sure to press the tofu beforehand to remove excess moisture and adapt the cooking time accordingly, sautéing until golden brown in the pan.
