This Crockpot Honey Garlic Shrimp is the ultimate seafood fix for busy weeknights. Sweet, savory, and tangy with just the right amount of garlic, it delivers flavor without fuss.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ cup honey
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup hoisin sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Directions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
- Place shrimp in the Crockpot and pour the sauce over them.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 1½ to 2 hours, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through. Do not overcook.
- In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water to make a slurry.
- During the last 10–15 minutes of cooking, stir the slurry into the Crockpot to thicken the sauce.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if using, then garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
- Serve hot over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 270 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 215mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sugar: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Potassium: 200mg
Flavor Profile of Honey Garlic Shrimp
The Honey Garlic Shrimp offers a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors. The sweetness of honey balances the salty depth of soy and hoisin sauces, while fresh garlic and ginger add a pungent warmth that elevates the dish. This balance makes it appealing to a wide range of palates and perfect for those who love Asian-inspired comfort food.
Health Benefits of Shrimp
Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, low in calories and fat, yet packed with essential nutrients such as selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. It supports muscle growth and repair while also promoting healthy brain and thyroid function. Including shrimp in your diet provides a nutritious way to enjoy seafood without worrying about excess calories.
Why Use a Crockpot for Seafood
Slow cooking shrimp in a Crockpot allows the flavors of the sauce to fully penetrate the seafood, creating a tender and juicy texture. Unlike quick sautéing, slow cooking can deepen the complexity of taste while requiring minimal active cooking time. It’s especially useful for busy individuals who want a hands-off, flavorful meal.
The Role of Honey in the Sauce
Honey not only adds sweetness but also helps create a glossy, sticky sauce that clings beautifully to the shrimp. It offers a natural alternative to refined sugars, contributing antioxidants and antibacterial properties. The honey caramelizes gently during cooking, giving the dish an appealing color and texture.
Garlic and Ginger: The Aromatic Duo
Garlic and ginger are staples in Asian cooking and bring distinct health benefits and flavor complexity. Garlic provides a sharp, spicy note and is known for its immune-boosting properties, while ginger adds a fresh, slightly peppery zing that aids digestion. Together, they enhance the sauce’s depth and contribute to overall well-being.
Customizing Heat Levels
This recipe includes an optional kick of red pepper flakes, allowing you to adjust the spiciness to your liking. Whether you prefer a mild or spicy dish, this flexibility makes it adaptable to various taste preferences. Adding fresh chili or Sriracha can also boost heat if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Honey Garlic Shrimp pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, garlic noodles, or sautéed vegetables. The rich sauce acts as a perfect glaze, complementing mild side dishes without overpowering them. For a lighter meal, try serving it over cauliflower rice or alongside a crisp Asian-inspired salad.
Meal Prep and Leftover Tips
This dish reheats well and can be made ahead, making it ideal for meal prepping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp, which can become rubbery. The sauce may thicken, so adding a splash of water can help loosen it.
Nutritional Considerations
While shrimp is low in calories and fat, the sauce contains sugars and sodium from honey and soy sauce, respectively. Moderation is key for those monitoring blood sugar or salt intake. You can reduce sodium by opting for low-sodium soy sauce or adjusting the honey quantity for a less sweet version.
Sustainability of Shrimp
Choosing sustainably sourced shrimp supports ocean health and reduces environmental impact. Look for certifications like MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) or buy from reputable suppliers. Wild-caught and farmed shrimp vary in their ecological footprints, so informed choices help protect marine ecosystems.
Cultural Inspirations
Honey Garlic Shrimp reflects a fusion of Asian flavors popular in Chinese and Southeast Asian cuisines. The combination of soy, garlic, and ginger is a classic foundation, enhanced here with honey for a sweeter twist. This dish showcases how traditional ingredients can be adapted into convenient modern recipes.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Shrimp in the Crockpot
Cooking shrimp in a Crockpot requires careful timing because shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. It’s best to add them toward the end of the cooking process or keep the cooking time short, as this recipe suggests. Using fresh or properly thawed shrimp also ensures a tender texture and optimal flavor absorption.
Pairing Honey Garlic Shrimp with Wine
When it comes to wine pairing, Honey Garlic Shrimp’s sweet and savory profile works well with crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines have bright acidity that balances the sweetness of the honey and complements the garlic and soy flavors. For those who prefer red wine, a light-bodied Pinot Noir can also pair nicely without overpowering the dish.
Conclusion
Honey Garlic Shrimp made in the Crockpot is a delicious, easy-to-prepare meal that offers bold flavors and nutritional benefits. Its versatility in heat and serving options makes it suitable for various tastes and occasions. By combining wholesome ingredients with simple cooking techniques, it brings restaurant-quality taste to your home kitchen with minimal effort. This recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a flavorful, health-conscious seafood dinner that fits seamlessly into a busy lifestyle.