Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe: A Quick and Delicious Meal
Honey garlic shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the sweet flavor of honey with the savory taste of garlic and the succulent texture of shrimp. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive yet simple meal for guests. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can have a flavorful and satisfying dish on the table in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (use low-sodium if preferred)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated (optional for added flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional for thickening)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions
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Marinate the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger (if using). Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour for more intense flavor.
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Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil and sesame oil (if using) over medium-high heat.
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Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, discarding the marinade. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.
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Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet. If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 1-2 minutes.
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Combine and Garnish: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the sauce. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
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Serve: Serve the honey garlic shrimp over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
Tips for Perfect Honey Garlic Shrimp
- Fresh Shrimp: Use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
- Marinating Time: While the shrimp can marinate for as little as 15 minutes, allowing them to marinate longer (up to an hour) will deepen the flavor.
- Avoid Overcooking: Shrimp cook very quickly. Watch them closely to ensure they turn pink and opaque without becoming overcooked and rubbery.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to the skillet for a complete meal. Simply sauté the vegetables before adding the shrimp.
Variations
- Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of fresh lime or orange juice to the marinade for a zesty flavor.
- Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts on top for added texture and flavor.
Honey garlic shrimp is a versatile and delicious dish that can be tailored to suit your taste preferences. Its quick preparation time and delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides and savor the delightful blend of honey and garlic with succulent shrimp.
