Name: Sticky Honey Garlic Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: For the Sauce:; ¼ cup soy sauce; 8 cloves garlic, finely chopped; ½ teaspoon ginger powder; ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper; 4 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon sambal chili paste (optional, but suggested); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; For the Shrimp:; 1 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 2 teaspoons water; For Garnish:; 2 scallions, thinly sliced; ½ teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sticky Honey Garlic Shrimp is the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and a little spicy. This dish features succulent shrimp coated in a rich, sticky honey garlic sauce that clings to every bite. The sweetness of honey balances out the savory soy sauce, while a touch of sambal chili paste adds a gentle heat (if you choose to include it). It’s quick to make, requiring only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The added garnish of scallions and sesame seeds provides the perfect finishing touch, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to be a hit! Sticky Honey Garlic Shrimp

Ingredients

¼ cup soy sauce
8 cloves garlic, finely chopped
½ teaspoon ginger powder
¼ teaspoon ground white pepper
4 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon sambal chili paste (optional, but suggested)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed
1 teaspoon cornstarch
2 teaspoons water
2 scallions, thinly sliced
½ teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, garlic, ginger powder, white pepper, honey, and sambal chili paste (if using).
Cook the Shrimp: Heat the vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 1 minute per side until they just start turning pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce into the same skillet and bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Slowly stir the slurry into the simmering sauce. Let the sauce cook for 2 to 4 minutes, until it thickens and becomes sticky.
Finish Cooking the Shrimp: Return the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they are opaque and fully cooked, about 3 minutes more.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 3
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories per Serving: 266

Variations

Extra Spice: Increase the sambal chili paste for a spicier version of this dish.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the honey to taste for a sweeter sauce or use brown sugar as an alternative sweetener.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the shrimp with tofu or a vegetable mix for a vegetarian version of this recipe.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to overcook the shrimp.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

2. What can I substitute for sambal chili paste?

If you don’t have sambal chili paste, you can use sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

3. Can I make this dish without cornstarch?

Yes, you can skip the cornstarch and just allow the sauce to simmer for longer until it thickens naturally, though it may not be as sticky.

4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to the skillet for added texture and flavor.

5. How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp are fully cooked when they turn opaque and form a “C” shape. If they curl into an “O”, they may be overcooked.

6. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before using.

7. How spicy is the sambal chili paste?

Sambal chili paste has a moderate level of heat, but you can adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

8. Can I serve this dish with noodles instead of rice?

Yes, this sticky honey garlic shrimp is fantastic served with noodles, especially rice noodles or soba.

9. What other garnishes can I use?

You can also garnish with additional herbs like cilantro or a squeeze of lime for a refreshing contrast.

10. Can I cook the shrimp in advance?

Shrimp are best served immediately after cooking, but you can cook them ahead and reheat them gently in the sauce before serving.

Conclusion

Sticky Honey Garlic Shrimp is a simple yet delicious dish that combines the rich flavors of honey, garlic, and soy sauce with the freshness of shrimp. It’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a flavorful appetizer at your next gathering. The sticky, sweet sauce is irresistible, and the optional sambal chili paste adds just the right amount of heat for those who like a bit of spice. Serve it with rice or noodles, and you’ve got a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Emma

Sticky Honey Garlic Shrimp