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Honey Garlic Shrimp

Honey garlic shrimp is a quick and elegant dish featuring tender shrimp coated in a glossy, caramelized honey and garlic glaze. The dish involves searing the shrimp until just pink, then simmering in a sweet-savory sauce until beautifully shiny and sticky. Its final appearance is vibrant, with a rich amber sheen and succulent, flavorful meat.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined preferably jumbo or large
  • 2-3 tablespoons honey raw, floral honey preferred
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced fresh garlic for optimal aroma
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce low-sodium recommended
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil adds smoky aroma
  • 1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil vegetable or canola oil
  • 2 green onions sliced, for garnish optional

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Spatula
  • Small bowl
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a good sear. Set aside.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the neutral cooking oil. Wait until the oil shimmers and is hot enough to sizzle when shrimp are added.
  3. Add the shrimp in a single layer to the hot skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes until they turn pink and start to curl, creating a slight sear on one side. Flip gently with a spatula and cook another 1-2 minutes until just cooked through. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant and slightly golden, filling the kitchen with that pungent aroma.
  5. Pour in the honey, soy sauce, and a teaspoon of sesame oil. Stir quickly, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle bubble and cook for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes a shiny, amber glaze.
  6. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently to coat them evenly in the glossy honey garlic sauce. Cook for another minute until the shrimp are heated through and enveloped in the sticky glaze.
  7. Turn off the heat and sprinkle with sliced green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles to soak up all that delicious sauce.