Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe

If you’ve ever craved something deliciously sweet, garlicky, and slightly sticky (in the best way) on a busy weeknight, this honey garlic shrimp recipe will be your new go-to. It’s quick, easy, and comes together in just minutes—but tastes like it came from a restaurant. Shrimp cooks lightning-fast, which makes this recipe ideal for when you want a meal on the table fast, but it’s also versatile enough to dress up for a dinner party.

this RECIPE

A quick shrimp memory that inspired this recipe

Years ago, I stumbled upon a little seaside food shack during a family vacation. They served the most incredible shrimp stir-fry, drizzled in a sticky, sweet-savory sauce that was impossible to forget. I remember sitting by the water, peeling shrimp while the sun set, and vowing to recreate that moment back home. Fast forward to today, and this honey garlic shrimp recipe is my take on that unforgettable meal. The hint of ginger adds warmth, the garlic gives it that irresistible aroma, and the honey ties it all together. Every bite takes me back to the sound of waves and that blissful feeling of simple, good food.

Where does honey garlic shrimp come from?

While honey garlic shrimp feels like a modern, fuss-free dish, it borrows heavily from Asian-inspired flavors and cooking techniques. The velveting method (coating shrimp in cornstarch and soy sauce before cooking) is a classic trick used in Chinese cuisine to make proteins tender and juicy. The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce is also a common pairing in many Asian dishes, balancing sweet, savory, and umami perfectly. Over time, recipes like this have been adapted for busy home cooks, keeping the flavors bold and the process simple.

Let’s talk ingredients: simple but flavorful

1. Shrimp: Shrimp is the star of the dish. I recommend using peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience—fresh or frozen will work! If you’re out of shrimp, you can try cubed chicken breast or tofu, but shrimp truly shines here. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a mild ocean scent for the freshest flavor.
2. Soy sauce: This adds a rich umami flavor to the dish. tamari or coconut aminos work wonderfully.
3. Cornstarch: It’s the secret to velvety, tender shrimp. If you don’t have cornstarch, potato starch can work in a pinch.
4. Vegetable oil: A neutral oil like vegetable oil lets the flavors of the garlic, ginger, and honey shine. You can swap it with canola or avocado oil if needed.
5. Garlic and ginger: These two bring an aromatic warmth to the dish. Fresh is always best, but pre-minced options will save time if you’re in a rush.
6. Honey: The sweetness ties all the flavors together. Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used if you’re out of honey, though honey’s floral notes add something special.
7. Chili flakes (optional): These give the dish a touch of heat. Skip them if you prefer mild flavors or add more for a spicier kick!
8. Green onions: They add a pop of freshness and color. You can use cilantro as an alternative if green onions aren’t on hand.

Kitchen gear: what you need (and what you can skip)

You don’t need a ton of fancy equipment to make honey garlic shrimp, which is one of the reasons I love this dish!

• Non-stick frying pan: A non-stick pan is your best friend here, as it prevents the honey from sticking and makes cleanup easier. If you don’t have one, just be sure to use a well-seasoned skillet.
• Tongs or a spatula: These are ideal for flipping the shrimp without tearing them.
• A small bowl: For mixing the soy sauce and cornstarch.
• Grater or garlic press: If you’re using fresh garlic and ginger, these tools can save time and effort.

No fancy shrimp deveining tools? No problem. A simple paring knife works perfectly!

Step-by-step: how to make honey garlic shrimp

Step 1: Prep your shrimp

First, make sure your shrimp are peeled, deveined, and ready to go. In a medium bowl, mix the soy sauce and cornstarch. Toss the shrimp in the mixture until they’re evenly coated. This simple step locks in moisture and creates a velvety texture when the shrimp cook. (Pro tip: Let the shrimp sit in this mixture while you prep the other ingredients to give it time to work its magic.)

Step 2: Sauté the aromatics

Heat the vegetable oil in your frying pan over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—don’t let it burn! The smell will instantly make you hungry, trust me.

Step 3: Cook the shrimp

Lay the shrimp in the pan in a single layer, cooking them for 1-2 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery if left on the heat too long.

Step 4: Add the honey

Drizzle the honey over the shrimp and sprinkle in the chili flakes if using. Toss everything together so the shrimp are evenly coated in that gorgeous sticky glaze. Remove from heat and get ready to serve!

Step 5: Garnish and serve

Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the shrimp for a burst of freshness. Serve the shrimp over rice, noodles, or even a bed of steamed veggies.

Make it your own: fun variations to try

1. Gluten-free option: Swap the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. Both are gluten-free and provide that savory kick.
2. Vegetarian version: Replace the shrimp with cubes of tofu. Press the tofu first to remove excess moisture, then toss it in the cornstarch-soy sauce mix before cooking.
3. Low-carb option: Serve the shrimp over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter meal.
4. Spicy twist: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce along with the honey for a fiery glaze.
5. Seasonal add-ins: Toss in some snap peas or bell peppers for a veggie boost. They’ll cook quickly and add color and crunch to the dish.

How to serve honey garlic shrimp like a pro

For a simple yet stunning presentation, spoon the shrimp over a mound of fluffy jasmine rice and drizzle any extra sauce from the pan on top. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of green onions or even sesame seeds for a finishing touch. Want to turn it into an appetizer? Serve the shrimp on skewers or as finger food with toothpicks for dipping.

Perfect drink pairings

Pairing beverages with honey garlic shrimp is all about complementing its sweet and savory flavors. For a option, I love serving it with:

1. Iced green tea: Its mild earthiness balances the sweetness of the honey.
2. Lemon ginger sparkling water: The slight fizz and citrusy zing are so refreshing.
3. Pineapple juice: It adds a tropical vibe that pairs perfectly with the dish’s sweetness.
4. Cucumber-mint lemonade: Cool and crisp, it keeps the flavors light and refreshing.

Storing and reheating tips

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a non-stick pan over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. Be careful not to overheat, as shrimp can get rubbery. This dish doesn’t freeze well because shrimp can lose their texture, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh.

Scaling the recipe for a crowd

If you’re cooking for more people, simply double or triple the ingredients. When scaling up, cook the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan—this ensures they sear properly and don’t steam. Just keep the sauce ratio consistent, and you’ll have plenty of that sweet garlicky goodness to go around.

Troubleshooting tips

• Shrimp too tough? They were likely overcooked. Remember, shrimp only need about 2 minutes per side!
• Sauce too thick? Add a splash of water or low-sodium broth to thin it out.
• Not enough sauce? Double the honey and soy sauce quantities next time for extra glaze.

Give it a try!

This honey garlic shrimp recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something quick, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you serve it over rice or sneak bites straight from the pan (no judgment!), it’s a dish that’s bound to become a family favorite. Have fun experimenting with variations and making it your own—I can’t wait to hear how you love it!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can prep the shrimp and sauce ingredients ahead to save time. Cook right before serving for the best texture.

3. What if I don’t have ginger paste?
Grated fresh ginger or even a pinch of ground ginger works as a substitute.

4. Can I leave out the chili flakes?
Of course! They’re optional and just add a bit of heat.

5. How can I make the sauce thicker?
Let the sauce simmer for a minute longer after adding the honey—it’ll naturally thicken as it reduces.

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