Honey Garlic Shrimp Pot

This honey garlic shrimp recipe is my favorite solution for quick flavor-packed weeknight dinners when everyone is hungry and you want zero fuss in the kitchen The combination of golden crispy shrimp and sticky sweet savory sauce turns a simple skillet meal into something restaurant worthy with almost no effort

The first time I made this was on a busy work night and now it is always on rotation because everybody at home asks for seconds

Ingredients

• Shrimp: Choose firm fresh peeled shrimp I love Argentinian for their natural sweetness Larger sizes stay plump and juicy when seared
• Garlic powder: Lends baseline flavor to the shrimp seasoning Use fresh garlic in the sauce for more complexity
• Smoked paprika powder: Gives a gentle smoky background Look for Spanish varieties for best results
• Oregano: Adds a herby note that pairs well with seafood Dried oregano works beautifully
• Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors in shrimp
• Black pepper: For a mild peppery kick
• Cornstarch: Coats the shrimp for the signature crisp exterior Use a fresh bag so it does not clump
• Olive oil: High quality extra virgin makes the flavor pop and provides even golden browning when frying
• Fresh garlic: Makes the honey garlic sauce pop Choose firm tight cloves for best taste
• Soy sauce: Contributes umami balance Go for low sodium if you want to control the salt
• Honey: Brings a lick of sweetness to the sticky sauce Use local honey for a floral note
• Oyster sauce: Adds savory depth and a glossy finish Choose a trusted Asian brand for authentic taste
• Red chili flakes: For a hint of spicy heat if you like things zippy
• Chopped green onions: Brings freshness at the end Bright green and crisp ones are best

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Shrimp:

In a big bowl combine olive oil garlic powder smoked paprika oregano salt and black pepper Stir well until even Add in the cleaned shrimp and toss until all are well coated with the seasoning Let this sit while you prep the sauce

Coat with Cornstarch:

Pour cornstarch into a wide bowl Take each marinated shrimp and roll it in the cornstarch so it gets a light all over dusting This helps create a crispy crust later

Sear the Shrimp:

Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat Gently lay each shrimp in the pan without crowding Cook each side for one to two minutes until golden and crisp Remove them and set aside on a plate

Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:

In a mixing bowl whisk together minced garlic soy sauce honey oyster sauce cornstarch hot water and chili flakes if using Make sure everything dissolves smoothly

Simmer the Sauce:

Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet still over medium heat Stir often as it simmers for five minutes until slightly thick and glossy

Combine Everything:

Add the crispy shrimp back into the skillet with the sauce Toss and turn so every shrimp is evenly coated Pull off the heat

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle on chopped green onions and extra chili flakes Serve hot and enjoy right away

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Cornstarch is the unsung hero here It is what gives you those irresistible golden edges on each shrimp When we tried this dish on my sister’s birthday everyone loved the crispy texture and even the kids could not stop asking for more sauce to drizzle on rice

Storage Tips

Honey garlic shrimp keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days When reheating use a skillet over medium low so they stay a little crisp Microwaving makes the coating softer but still tasty

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap honey for maple syrup if needed or use agave for a vegan sauce If you do not have oyster sauce Worcestershire mixed with a little extra soy sauce works in a pinch Use chicken or firm tofu as a seafood free alternative

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Serving Suggestions

Spoon over steamed jasmine rice or pile onto noodles for a hearty dinner It also goes well in lettuce wraps for a lighter meal I even love adding a quick cucumber salad on the side for some crunch

Cultural Historical Context

Honey garlic shrimp is a classic East meets West recipe loved for its blend of sweet savory and slightly spicy flavors It takes inspiration from Chinese American takeout classics and has evolved thanks to quick one pan cooking methods found in family kitchens worldwide

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of shrimp works best for this dish?

Argentinian shrimp are recommended for their sweet, robust flavor and firm texture, though any large, peeled shrimp will work well.

→ How do you get shrimp crispy without deep frying?

Coating the shrimp in cornstarch and pan-searing in olive oil gives a crisp, golden finish with minimal oil, no deep fryer needed.

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Absolutely! Omit or increase the red chili flakes according to your heat preference. Add after cooking for more control.

→ What sides pair well with this meal?

Steamed rice, sautéed greens, or noodles complement the sweet-savory shrimp and help soak up the flavorful sauce.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats easily, making it ideal for advance prep. Store in an airtight container and garnish fresh when serving.