This orange honey garlic shrimp is a tasty treat! It’s sweet and tangy, with shrimp cooked just right. Perfect for a quick dinner that feels fancy!
When I make this dish, I can’t resist sneaking a few shrimp before dinner is served. They’re just too good! Pair it with rice or veggies for a yummy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for the best texture. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp will work well too—just thaw them before cooking. For a twist, try using chicken or tofu if you want a different protein.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use pre-minced garlic if you’re short on time. Garlic powder is another option, but use it sparingly.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice enhances the dish’s flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice will do. You can also use lemon juice for a different citrus twist.
Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can substitute for honey if you prefer a vegan option. Experiment with brown sugar for a different sweetness!
Sesame Oil: This adds a lovely nutty flavor, but feel free to use olive oil instead if you don’t have it. Peanut oil can also work well for a different taste.
How Do I Perfectly Cook Shrimp Without Making Them Tough?
Cooking shrimp quickly is key to keeping them tender. Here’s how to do it right:
- Pat the shrimp dry. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Heat the oil over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, add the shrimp. Cook for just 2 minutes on each side.
- Watch them turn from gray to pink. Once they’re pink and opaque, they’re done!
If you overcook them, they can become rubbery. It’s all about quick cooking, so keep an eye on them!
What’s the Best Way to Make the Orange Sauce Shine?
To create a rich and flavorful sauce, follow these steps:
- Sauté garlic until fragrant but not browned, about 30 seconds. This prevents bitterness.
- Combine orange juice, honey, and soy sauce. Let this simmer to thicken.
- Add shrimp back and ensure they are coated well in the sauce. A minute or two is all you need to meld those flavors.
Keeping it simple will make the sauce pop! Enjoy!
How to Make Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (scallions)
- Orange zest (from 1 orange), for garnish
- Cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful shrimp dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them sear nicely. Season them lightly with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches) and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. Next, stir in the orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Combine Shrimp and Sauce:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them gently to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, just enough to combine the flavors and warm the shrimp through.
5. Final Touches:
Stir in the sesame oil for added flavor and then sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the shrimp. This adds a lovely crunch and freshness!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the dish with orange zest. Serve immediately over cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice for a wholesome meal!
Enjoy your sweet and savory orange honey garlic shrimp! This dish is perfect for an easy, delicious dinner that you can whip up in no time.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. The best way to do this is to place them in the fridge overnight, or for a quicker method, put them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What Can I Use Instead of Honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar works well in place of honey for a similar sweetness. For a darker flavor, you can also use brown sugar mixed with a little bit of water to mimic the honey texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring not to overcook them again.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like more heat, you can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick. Just start with a small amount and adjust to your heat preference!
