These glazed honey garlic shrimp are sweet, sticky, and bursting with flavor! They’re so easy to whip up, making them perfect for a quick dinner or a cozy night in.
Plus, who can resist shrimp smothered in a delicious honey garlic sauce? I usually serve them over rice, and let’s just say, it’s hard to resist going back for seconds! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp works best for this dish, but you can use medium or jumbo shrimp too. If shrimp isn’t available, try scallops or chicken pieces instead for a similar taste.
Honey: I love using raw honey for its rich flavor. If you’re vegan, agave syrup or maple syrup can be great alternatives.
Soy Sauce: Choose low sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake. Alternatively, tamari is a gluten-free substitute that tastes great in this dish.
Vinegar: Rice vinegar gives a mild tang, but you can replace it with white vinegar or lemon juice to brighten the flavors if needed.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: This is optional but adds a nice kick. If you prefer mild flavors, feel free to skip it or use a dash of paprika instead.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp can feel tricky, but it’s simple once you get the hang of it! Here are a few tips to ensure they turn out just right:
- Make sure your shrimp are thawed completely if using frozen ones. Patting them dry helps achieve a nice sear.
- Cook the shrimp in a hot skillet with enough oil to prevent sticking. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes per side.
- Keep an eye on them! They’ll turn pink when they’re cooked. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so remove them as soon as they change color.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have perfectly cooked shrimp every time!
Glazed Honey Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (use low sodium if preferred)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for subtle heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (to thicken sauce)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15-20 minutes in total! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and then another 10 minutes cooking. Quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper for added flavor.
2. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil (or vegetable oil) over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. This will help give the shrimp a nice sear!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Carefully add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant, making sure to stir frequently so it doesn’t burn. Remember, garlic can go from perfect to burnt very quickly!
5. Make the Sauce:
Next, stir in the honey, soy sauce, and vinegar. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer; this will help the flavors combine beautifully.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet (that’s the cornstarch mixed with water). Stir it gently and cook for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This is what gives the dish that sticky and glossy finish!
7. Combine the Shrimp and Sauce:
Toss the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sticky honey garlic glaze. Cook them together for an extra minute to heat through.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re using it), along with chopped parsley or green onions, and sesame seeds for a lovely finish.
9. Enjoy!
Serve your glazed honey garlic shrimp immediately over steamed rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish. Enjoy the sweet, savory, and garlicky flavor!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. To thaw frozen shrimp quickly, place them in a colander and run cold water over them for about 5-10 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a quick stir before reheating and add the shrimp just before serving for the best texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring not to overcook the shrimp again.
What Can I Serve with Honey Garlic Shrimp?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles to soak up that yummy sauce. Feel free to add a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad to round out the meal!
