This Hot Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe offers a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors, making it a perfect choice for a quick and delicious dinner. Succulent shrimp are seasoned and cooked to perfection, then tossed in a homemade hot honey garlic sauce that will tantalize your taste buds.
FULL RECIPE:
Ingredients
Shrimp:
- 1.5 lbs shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Canola oil, as needed
Spicy Seasoning:
- 1.5 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1.5 tablespoons brown sugar
- 0.75 tablespoon black pepper
- 0.75 tablespoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons Sichuan chili flakes
Hot Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 2 ounces low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 ounces rice wine vinegar
- Juice of 1 medium lime
- 3 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1.5 tablespoons sriracha
- Sliced scallions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Directions
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Prepare the Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with a drizzle of canola oil. Add the spicy seasoning ingredients (kosher salt, brown sugar, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Sichuan chili flakes) to the bowl and mix thoroughly to coat the shrimp evenly. Cover and refrigerate until ready to cook.
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Cook the Shrimp: Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat (approximately 350°F). Add a small amount of canola oil to the skillet. Place the seasoned shrimp in the skillet and cook for about 1.5 to 2 minutes total, turning as needed, until the shrimp are just opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
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Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes fragrant and lightly browned. Deglaze the skillet by adding the lime juice, soy sauce, and rice wine vinegar, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
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Combine and Serve: Stir in the honey and sriracha to the sauce, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce to ensure they are well-coated and heated through. Garnish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugars: 10g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fiber: 1g
Hot Honey Garlic Shrimp: A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Spicy Flavors
Shrimp lovers are always on the lookout for exciting ways to elevate their seafood experience, and Hot Honey Garlic Shrimp is a game-changer. This dish perfectly balances the sweetness of honey with the heat of spices, complemented by the aromatic presence of garlic. It’s a recipe that works for any occasion, whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner, preparing a special weekend meal, or looking for an impressive dish to serve at gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not just about shrimp, it’s about bold flavors and simple techniques that bring out the best in this popular seafood. Here are a few reasons why this dish stands out:
- Sweet and Spicy Harmony – The hot honey and garlic combination creates a beautiful contrast that keeps every bite interesting.
- Quick and Easy to Make – You don’t need hours in the kitchen. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish.
- Healthy and Nutritious – Shrimp is low in calories but packed with protein and essential nutrients.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether served as a main course or an appetizer, this dish is versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.
The Secret to Perfectly Cooked Shrimp
Shrimp is delicate, and overcooking can result in a tough, rubbery texture. To ensure perfect shrimp every time:
- Use Fresh or Properly Thawed Shrimp – If using frozen shrimp, allow them to thaw completely in the refrigerator.
- Dry the Shrimp Well – Excess moisture can cause the shrimp to steam instead of sear, affecting the flavor and texture.
- Cook Over Medium-High Heat – This helps achieve a nice caramelized crust while keeping the shrimp juicy inside.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan – Cooking shrimp in batches ensures even heat distribution and prevents steaming.
What Makes Hot Honey Special?
Hot honey is a unique ingredient that brings both heat and sweetness to dishes. It’s made by infusing honey with chili flakes, hot sauce, or other spicy elements. The natural sweetness of honey helps balance out the bold spice, making it an excellent addition to shrimp. The sticky texture of honey also creates a beautiful glaze on the shrimp, enhancing its visual appeal and taste.
Pairing Suggestions
Hot Honey Garlic Shrimp pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great ideas:
- Steamed Rice or Coconut Rice – The mildness of rice balances the heat of the shrimp.
- Garlic Butter Pasta – A simple buttered pasta enhances the garlicky goodness of the dish.
- Grilled Vegetables – Bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus complement the flavors perfectly.
- Fresh Salad – A citrusy or avocado-based salad pairs well with the sweet and spicy shrimp.
How to Store and Reheat Hot Honey Garlic Shrimp
If you have leftovers, you can store them properly to enjoy later:
- Refrigeration: Store the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Customizing the Recipe
This recipe is already packed with flavor, but you can always adjust it to suit your taste:
- Adjust the Spice Level: Increase or decrease the amount of chili flakes or sriracha based on your heat tolerance.
- Add a Citrusy Twist: A splash of orange or lemon juice can brighten up the flavors.
- Experiment with Different Proteins: The hot honey garlic sauce works well with chicken, tofu, or even salmon.
Health Benefits of Shrimp
Shrimp is not just delicious—it’s also a nutritional powerhouse. Here’s why it’s a great addition to your diet:
- High in Protein, Low in Calories – Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, making it perfect for those looking to maintain muscle while keeping calorie intake low.
- Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids – These healthy fats contribute to heart health and reduce inflammation.
- Loaded with Essential Nutrients – Shrimp contains iodine, selenium, and vitamin B12, all of which are essential for overall well-being.
Conclusion
Hot Honey Garlic Shrimp is a dish that brings together bold flavors, simple cooking techniques, and high nutritional value. Whether you’re making it for a quick meal at home or serving it at a gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. The perfect balance of sweetness, heat, and garlic-infused goodness makes this dish a must-try for any seafood lover. Give it a try, and you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again!