Are you craving a quick and tasty meal that’s packed with flavor? Look no further! This Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry recipe is easy to make and full of fresh veggies. You’ll love how the sweet and savory sauce brings everything together. In just a few steps, you can enjoy a delicious dish that impresses at any dinner table. Dive in and let’s make this scrumptious meal together!
Ingredients
Key Ingredients for Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry
– Large shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined)
– Honey (2 tablespoons)
– Soy sauce (3 tablespoons)
– Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
– Ginger (1 inch, grated)
Vegetables and Garnishes
– Red bell pepper (1, sliced)
– Broccoli florets (1 cup)
– Snap peas (1 cup)
– Green onions (2, chopped)
– Sesame seeds (for garnish)
– Optional: Cornstarch (1 tablespoon, for thickening)
The main stars of this dish are the shrimp. I like to use large shrimp for a nice bite. You can find them fresh or frozen. If you pick frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them first. The honey adds a sweet touch, while the soy sauce gives it a nice salty flavor.
Garlic and ginger are key players here. They bring warmth and a bit of spice. I use three cloves of garlic and a small chunk of ginger. Grate the ginger to release its full flavor.
The veggies add color and crunch. I love red bell pepper for its sweetness. Broccoli florets give a nice texture, and snap peas add a fresh crunch.
For a finishing touch, sprinkle some green onions and sesame seeds. They enhance the look and add a bit of bite. If you like a thicker sauce, include cornstarch. It helps bind all the tasty flavors together.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of the Sauce
– Mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil in a bowl.
– Whisk in cornstarch for a thicker sauce, if desired.
To start, gather your ingredients and a small bowl. Add honey and soy sauce first. Then, add minced garlic and grated ginger. Pour in the sesame oil for a rich flavor. If you want a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch now. Whisk until smooth and set it aside. This sauce brings sweet and savory notes that make the dish pop.
Cooking the Shrimp
– Heat a skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
– Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque.
– Remove and set aside.
Next, grab a large skillet or wok. Heat it over medium-high heat until hot. Add the shrimp to the skillet. You will see them turn pink and opaque in about 2-3 minutes. Once cooked, remove the shrimp and set them aside. This step is quick, but it locks in all the flavors.
Stir-Frying the Vegetables
– Add oil to the skillet if needed.
– Stir-fry red bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas for 3-4 minutes.
– Return shrimp and add honey garlic sauce.
In the same skillet, add a splash of oil if the pan seems dry. Toss in the sliced red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and snap peas. Stir-fry these for about 3-4 minutes. You want them tender but still crisp. Once ready, return the shrimp to the skillet. Pour the honey garlic sauce over everything. Stir well to mix the flavors, and cook for another 2 minutes. The sauce will coat the shrimp and veggies beautifully. Enjoy the vibrant colors and tempting aromas!
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Right Shrimp
– Select fresh or frozen large shrimp.
– Look for a clean, unblemished appearance.
Choosing the right shrimp is crucial for this dish. Fresh shrimp gives the best taste. If you use frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them first. Run cold water over them for quick thawing. The shrimp should feel firm and not slimy. This ensures a great texture in your stir fry.
Perfecting the Stir Fry
– Ensure skillet is hot enough before adding shrimp.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan for proper cooking.
A hot skillet is key to a good stir fry. Preheat your skillet on medium-high heat. You want it sizzling when you add the shrimp. If the pan is too crowded, the shrimp will steam instead of fry. Cook in batches if needed. This keeps the shrimp juicy and flavorful.
Adding Flavor Enhancements
– Consider adding red pepper flakes for heat.
– Sprinkle sesame oil before serving for extra flavor.
To make your dish pop, add red pepper flakes. This simple step adds a nice kick. Just sprinkle them over the shrimp while cooking. For a final touch, drizzle sesame oil on top before serving. This adds a rich, nutty flavor. Enjoy the mix of sweet and savory!
Variations
Adding Other Proteins
You can easily switch out the shrimp for other proteins. Chicken works well in this dish. Just cut it into bite-sized pieces. Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and fully cooked. Tofu is another great choice. Use firm or extra-firm tofu for the best texture. Simply cube it and pan-fry until crispy. You can also experiment with mixed seafood like scallops and squid. This gives your meal an exciting twist.
Vegetable Alternatives
Feel free to mix in different vegetables for a unique touch. Bell peppers come in many colors. Try using yellow or green bell peppers for a splash of color. Green beans can replace snap peas. They add a nice crunch and flavor. Carrots, mushrooms, and zucchini can also enrich your stir fry. Just make sure to cut them into even pieces so they cook well.
Alternative Sauces
If you want to change the sauce, there are many options. Teriyaki sauce brings a sweet and savory taste. Sweet chili sauce adds a bit of heat and sweetness. For a fresh twist, mix soy sauce with grated ginger. This adds warmth and depth to the dish. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your flavors!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the shrimp fresh. It will stay good for 2-3 days in the fridge. I always recommend checking for freshness before you eat it again.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the portions in freezer-safe bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It tastes best if used within 2 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Tips
When reheating, do so gently in a skillet with a splash of water. This helps maintain the shrimp’s texture. Avoid overcooking, as it can make the shrimp tough. Enjoy your meal just as you made it!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. You can leave them in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for a quick thaw. This keeps the shrimp juicy and tender.
How do I make the sauce spicier?
To add spice, you can mix in red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha. Start with a little and taste as you go. This way, you can control how spicy you want your dish.
What can I serve with honey garlic shrimp stir fry?
You can serve this dish over rice or noodles. Both options soak up the sauce well and make the meal more filling. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables for extra nutrients.
Honey garlic shrimp stir fry combines simple ingredients for a tasty meal. You learned to prepare a sweet and savory sauce, cook shrimp, and stir-fry colorful veggies. Remember, you can swap proteins and vegetables as you like. Store leftovers safely to enjoy later. With these tips and tricks, you’re ready to create a delicious dish that adds variety to your meals. Enjoy your cooking adventure while impressing friends and family!
