10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe

This honey garlic shrimp recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. In just 10 minutes, you can have a dish that tastes like it came straight from a fancy restaurant. Sweet honey, savory garlic, and a hint of ginger come together to make a glossy sauce that coats tender shrimp perfectly. Plus, it’s versatile! Whether you’re serving it over rice, noodles, or enjoying it as a party appetizer, this dish is sure to impress. And the best part? No need for special trips to the store—most of the ingredients are pantry staples.

this RECIPE

The time I learned to love shrimp (and why this recipe is special)

Growing up, I wasn’t exactly a shrimp fan. I think it was one of those foods I just didn’t “get” as a kid. But then, one summer, my family took a beach trip, and everything changed. There was this little seafood shack that served honey garlic shrimp skewers fresh off the grill. The shrimp were glistening with a sweet, sticky glaze, and one bite was all it took to convert me. The combination of honey and garlic was magical. Fast forward to now, and I’ve recreated that nostalgic flavor in this recipe—without the need for a grill or hours of marinating. It’s quick, simple, and every bit as delicious as my first taste of shrimp perfection.

A quick dive into honey garlic shrimp’s roots

While honey garlic shrimp isn’t tied to one particular cuisine, it has a lot of Asian-inspired flavors, thanks to the soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. “Velveting” the shrimp with cornstarch and soy sauce is a Chinese cooking technique that keeps the meat tender and juicy while stir-frying. The use of honey as a glaze gives the dish a universal appeal—it’s sweet, sticky, and pairs beautifully with the delicate flavor of shrimp. Over time, recipes like this have popped up in fusion cuisines around the world, adapting to local ingredients and tastes. What I love about this dish is how it brings together the simplicity of home cooking with the bold flavors of global inspiration.

Let’s talk ingredients: simple, flavorful, and flexible

Shrimp: The star of the dish! Go for fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined, to save time. If using frozen, just thaw them in cold water for a few minutes. If shrimp aren’t your thing, chicken or tofu would work as great substitutes.

Soy sauce: It adds that savory, umami kick. I prefer naturally brewed soy sauce for its depth of flavor. If you’re gluten-free, tamari is a perfect swap.

Cornstarch: A little goes a long way here! It helps the shrimp stay tender and gives the sauce a light, silky texture. You could also use arrowroot powder if you’re avoiding cornstarch.

Honey: This is what makes the sauce sweet and sticky. For a deeper, more complex sweetness, try using maple syrup or agave nectar.

Garlic and ginger: These two are a flavor powerhouse. Fresh garlic and ginger bring brightness and zing to the dish. Pre-minced garlic and ginger paste are fine for when you’re short on time.

Chili flakes: Optional, but they add a subtle heat that balances the sweetness of the honey. Adjust the amount to your spice tolerance—or leave them out entirely for a milder dish.

Green onions: These add freshness and a pop of color for garnish. If you’re out, cilantro or parsley can step in as a vibrant alternative.

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

The beauty of this recipe is that it doesn’t require any fancy gadgets. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Non-stick frying pan: This ensures the honey doesn’t burn or stick to the pan. If you don’t have non-stick, use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet.
• Mixing bowls: You’ll need one medium-sized bowl to toss the shrimp with the soy sauce and cornstarch.
• Spatula or tongs: Something to easily flip and toss the shrimp in the sauce.
• Microplane or grater: If you’re working with fresh ginger, a microplane makes grating it a breeze. But a knife works just as well for mincing!

Pro tip: If you don’t have a garlic press, just use the side of your knife to smash the garlic cloves and then chop them finely. It’s oddly satisfying!

Step-by-step: making honey garlic shrimp in no time

1. Velvet the shrimp: In a medium bowl, mix the soy sauce and cornstarch until smooth. Toss the shrimp in this mixture until evenly coated. This step ensures juicy, tender shrimp that cook up beautifully.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds. Be careful not to let them burn—once you smell that fragrant, mouthwatering aroma, it’s time to move to the next step.
3. Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Let them cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, depending on their size, until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan, or they’ll steam instead of sear.
4. Add the sauce: Lower the heat and pour in the honey, along with the chili flakes if you’re using them. Toss the shrimp gently to coat them in the sticky, sweet sauce. You’ll notice the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the shrimp.
5. Garnish and serve: Take the pan off the heat, sprinkle with sliced green onions, and serve immediately. Enjoy the shrimp over steamed rice, noodles, or as an appetizer—whatever suits your mood!

Variations and fun twists you’ll love

• Vegan version: Swap shrimp for firm tofu or cauliflower florets. Prepare them the same way by coating them in the cornstarch mixture before cooking.
• Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. They’ll still bring that savory flavor without the gluten.
• Low-carb: Serve the shrimp over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Stir-fry broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas alongside the shrimp to make it a full one-pan meal.
• Citrusy twist: Add a splash of lime juice or some orange zest to the sauce for a fresh, citrusy punch.
• Spicier kick: Mix in a teaspoon of Uni-Eagle Sriracha or chili garlic sauce for extra heat.

The best part about this recipe? It’s practically foolproof, so experimenting is encouraged!

Serving and presentation ideas

For a simple, comforting meal, serve the shrimp over fluffy jasmine rice. If you want to fancy things up, plate the shrimp on a bed of sautéed greens like bok choy or spinach. Sprinkle a few sesame seeds on top for a finishing touch, and add extra green onion slices for a pop of color. Planning a party? Serve these shrimp on skewers with lime wedges on the side for a fun appetizer. They’re bite-sized, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Drink pairings to complete the meal

Since this dish has a sweet and savory balance, you’ll want a drink that complements it without overpowering the flavors. Here are a few ideas:

• Iced green tea: Its light, earthy notes pair beautifully with the honey garlic sauce.
• Cucumber lemonade: Refreshing and slightly tart, it cuts through the richness of the dish.
• Sparkling water with lime: A simple, fizzy option that cleanses the palate.
• Mango smoothie: Sweet, tropical, and creamy—perfect for a summer meal.

Storing and reheating tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store the shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a non-stick pan over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Add a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the shrimp rubbery. If freezing, it’s best to freeze the shrimp without the sauce and make the sauce fresh when reheating.

Scaling the recipe for any crowd

Cooking for two? Halve the ingredients, but keep the cooking times the same. Feeding a crowd? Double the recipe, but cook the shrimp in batches to ensure even searing. Just be mindful of the pan size—overcrowding leads to steamed, not sautéed, shrimp. This recipe scales beautifully, so go ahead and make as much as you need!

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just thaw them in cold water for a few minutes, pat them dry, and proceed with the recipe.

2. What’s the best way to peel and devein shrimp?
You can buy them prepped, but if you’re doing it yourself, a small knife or shrimp deveiner tool works wonders. It’s quick once you get the hang of it!

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the shrimp ahead by velveting them and storing them in the fridge for a few hours.

4. Is this dish spicy?
Not by default! The chili flakes are optional, so you can adjust the heat to your liking—or leave them out entirely.

5. What can I serve with honey garlic shrimp?
Rice, noodles, steamed veggies, or even a fresh salad all make great pairings.

Enjoy experimenting with this recipe and making it your own! It’s quick, delicious, and sure to become a favorite.

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