Honey-Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Honey-Garlic Shrimp recipe is incredibly easy to make, taking less than 45 minutes from start to finish. The shrimp are cooked to perfection with a sweet and savory glaze that is loaded with flavor. It’s a great weeknight meal that doesn’t require complicated ingredients or hours of preparation. The best part is that it’s versatile—whether you enjoy it with steamed rice or stir-fried noodles, it’s a dish that will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large raw shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
• 2 tablespoons mild-flavored honey
• ½ teaspoon freshly grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce, or more to taste
• 1 teaspoon Asian fish sauce, or to taste
• 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup thinly sliced green onion, or to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the shrimp: Ensure that the shrimp are fully thawed and well-drained. Keep them in the refrigerator while you prepare the marinade.

2. Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together garlic, honey, ginger, soy sauce, and fish sauce.

3. Marinate the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss them to coat evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes. Toss occasionally during the marinating time.

4. Cook the shrimp: Heat a large nonstick skillet over high heat. Brush with vegetable oil. Once the skillet starts emitting small wisps of smoke, transfer the shrimp into the pan in a single layer using tongs. Sear for 2 minutes, then flip the shrimp over.

5. Add the marinade: Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and cook for another minute. Turn off the heat, flip the shrimp once more, and let them sit for about 1 minute. The marinade will reduce into a beautiful glaze.

6. Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and serve over rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 2 servings. The preparation time is about 10 minutes, and the cooking time is around 5 minutes. The marinating time is 30 to 60 minutes, so plan accordingly.

Variations

• Spicy Honey-Garlic Shrimp: Add red pepper flakes or chili paste to the marinade to introduce a spicy kick.

• Citrus Honey-Garlic Shrimp: Add a tablespoon of lemon or lime juice to the marinade for a citrusy twist.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with firm tofu or vegetables like cauliflower for a vegetarian version.

• Honey-Soy Glazed Shrimp: If you prefer a stronger soy flavor, increase the amount of soy sauce and reduce the honey for a more savory taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Honey-Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or in the microwave for about 1 minute. Ensure the shrimp are heated thoroughly but do not overcook to maintain their tenderness.

FAQs

1. Can I use smaller shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use smaller shrimp, but they may cook faster. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will become tough.

2. Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?

Yes, you can use maple syrup, agave, or brown sugar as alternatives to honey, though the flavor may differ slightly.

3. Can I make this recipe without fish sauce?

Yes, if you don’t have fish sauce, you can substitute it with additional soy sauce or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a similar umami flavor.

4. How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming overcooked?

To avoid overcooking, make sure to monitor the shrimp closely while cooking, and use large shrimp as they are less likely to overcook quickly.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can marinate the shrimp ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to cook the shrimp just before serving for the best texture.

6. What can I serve this with?

Honey-Garlic Shrimp pairs well with steamed white rice, brown rice, or noodles. You can also serve it alongside vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.

7. Can I freeze Honey-Garlic Shrimp?

While you can freeze the cooked shrimp, the texture may change upon reheating. It’s best to freeze the shrimp before cooking if you plan to store them for a longer period.

8. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, you can replace the shrimp with tofu, tempeh, or vegetables like cauliflower or mushrooms for a vegetarian alternative.

9. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?

While you can use pre-cooked shrimp, it’s best to use raw shrimp so they can absorb the marinade better and cook with the sauce to develop a flavorful glaze.

10. How can I make this recipe spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes, chili sauce, or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the honey.

Conclusion

Honey-Garlic Shrimp is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With its sweet and savory flavor profile, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve it over rice, noodles, or with vegetables for a complete meal. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe offers delicious results every time.