Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry
There’s something truly magical about a well-prepared stir-fry, especially when it comes to the delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. This Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. With succulent shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and a luscious honey garlic sauce, this recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights or when you want to impress someone special.
Why Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry is Worth Your Time
The beauty of Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry lies in its versatility and speed. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a colorful, wholesome meal on the table that dazzles with flavor. The shrimp cook quickly, absorbing the sweet and tangy sauce, while the vegetables add crunch and nutrition. It’s a delightful dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also leaves you feeling good about what you’ve eaten. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
What We’re Using
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil – For sautéing and adding a subtle flavor.
- 1 pound shrimp – Raw, peeled, and deveined for quick cooking.
- 2 garlic cloves – Minced for that aromatic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger – Minced for a zesty kick.
- 1 small yellow onion – Cut into thin strips for sweetness.
- 1 small red bell pepper – Cut into thin strips for color and crunch.
- 1 cup peas – For a pop of sweetness and texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – To enhance the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons honey – For that rich sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – For a savory depth.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest – To brighten the dish.
- 2 cups cooked brown rice – To serve as a hearty base.
Toolbox for This Recipe
- Large skillet or wok – Essential for stir-frying the ingredients evenly.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – For stirring without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring spoons – To accurately measure your ingredients.
- Cutting board and knife – For preparing your vegetables and shrimp.
- Serving plates – For plating your delicious stir-fry.
Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry, Made Easy
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure the shrimp are fully thawed if they were previously frozen. Mince the garlic and ginger, slice the yellow onion and red bell pepper into thin strips, and measure out the peas.
Step 2: Heat the Coconut Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to melt and become hot but not smoking.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. You want them fragrant but not browned.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Now, add the shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
Once the shrimp are cooked, add the sliced yellow onion, red bell pepper, and peas. Stir-fry the mixture for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.
Step 6: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of orange zest. Pour the sauce over the shrimp and vegetables in the skillet, stirring to coat everything evenly.
Step 7: Serve Over Brown Rice
Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry over a bed of 2 cups of cooked brown rice, ensuring each serving gets a generous amount of the delicious sauce.
Better Choices & Swaps
- Honey alternatives: If you need a vegan option, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Vegetable swaps: Feel free to substitute the red bell pepper and yellow onion with your favorite veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots.
- Gluten-free soy sauce: If you are gluten-sensitive, opt for tamari as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.
- Rice alternatives: Quinoa or cauliflower rice can be used instead of brown rice for a lighter option.
Notes on Ingredients
The key to a successful Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry is using fresh ingredients. Frozen shrimp can work in a pinch, but fresh shrimp offer a superior taste and texture. Make sure to adjust the cooking time if using smaller or larger shrimp. The combination of honey and soy sauce creates a flavorful glaze that complements the shrimp beautifully while the orange zest adds a refreshing twist.
Shelf Life & Storage
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through. The stir-fry can also be frozen for up to a month. Just remember that the texture of the vegetables may change slightly upon thawing.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for the best texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for coconut oil?
If you don’t have coconut oil, you can use olive oil or avocado oil as alternatives for sautéing.
Is this dish spicy?
This Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or sriracha to spice it up if desired.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Cook the stir-fry just before serving for the best freshness.
Keep Cooking
- For more delicious shrimp recipes, check out Sally’s Baking Addiction.
- For quick and easy dinner ideas, visit Pinch of Yum.
- For vegan and gluten-free recipes, explore Minimalist Baker.
The Takeaway
This Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With its vibrant colors, rich flavors, and simple preparation, it embodies everything we love about cooking at home. Whether you serve it on a busy weeknight or fancy it up for guests, this dish is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, heat up that skillet, and get ready to enjoy a delightful culinary adventure right in your kitchen!
Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure the shrimp are fully thawed if they were previously frozen. Mince the garlic and ginger, slice the yellow onion and red bell pepper into thin strips, and measure out the peas.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to melt and become hot but not smoking.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. You want them fragrant but not browned.
- Now, add the shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the shrimp are cooked, add the sliced yellow onion, red bell pepper, and peas. Stir-fry the mixture for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of orange zest. Pour the sauce over the shrimp and vegetables in the skillet, stirring to coat everything evenly.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry over a bed of 2 cups of cooked brown rice, ensuring each serving gets a generous amount of the delicious sauce.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like broccoli or snap peas.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
