Are you craving an easy yet delectable dish that brings a little Asian flair to your dining table? Look no further than this Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry! This dish strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, featuring juicy shrimp paired with crisp vegetables in a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s a 25-minute recipe that’s not only quick to whip up but also healthy and gluten-free, designed to cater to your busy schedule while offering a delicious meal option for the whole family.

This Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry is more than just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with vibrant flavors and textures. Imagine perfectly cooked shrimp that are both tender and succulent, nestled alongside the freshest broccoli and sweet red bell peppers. The sauce, a delightful blend of honey and soy sauce, coats each ingredient, adding a glossy finish that makes every bite flavorful. This recipe is perfect for those evenings when you want something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Pair it with steamed rice, and you have a complete meal that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry

Quick Cooking: With a total time of just 25 minutes, it’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights.
Flavor Packed: The combination of honey, garlic, and fresh veggies creates a mouthwatering dish.
Healthy Option: Loaded with protein and vegetables, it’s a nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Flexible Ingredients: Use fresh or frozen shrimp and customize your veggie mix based on what’s in season.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before embarking on your cooking journey, it’s essential to set up your kitchen to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience. Start by gathering your ingredients and measuring them according to the recipe. This helps streamline the cooking process, allowing you to focus on the flavors. You’ll need a large wok or skillet for stir-frying, as it offers enough surface area to cook all the ingredients evenly. Also, have a whisk on hand for blending your sauce smoothly without lumps, and a heatproof spatula for mixing.

Don’t forget your cutting board and knife for prepping the vegetables. Make sure your shrimp are properly thawed and patted dry to ensure they sear beautifully in the pan. Prepping your mis en place—or everything in its place—can make the whole cooking process effortless. Once you’re all set, you’re ready for some delightful stir-fry action!

Ingredients

12 large shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
360 ml broccoli florets
60 ml red bell pepper, sliced
60 ml onion, sliced
2 teaspoons minced garlic
60 ml soy sauce
120 ml honey
0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
0.5 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, start by whisking together the soy sauce, honey, ground ginger, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic. This mixture serves as the flavor powerhouse for the dish. Once it’s well combined, sprinkle in the cornstarch to thicken the sauce, making sure to blend it until it dissolves completely. Setting this aside allows the flavors to meld together while you prepare the shrimp and vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced red bell pepper and onions to the pan, stirring frequently for about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial for softening the vegetables slightly while keeping them crunchy. Your kitchen will soon fill with inviting aromas! Then, toss in the broccoli florets and continue to stir for another 4 minutes. The goal is to achieve an even tenderness while allowing the vegetables to retain their vibrant colors.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Once your veggies are nearly done, it’s time to add the unsalted butter into the pan. Let it melt completely, then add your shrimp. Cook the shrimp for approximately 2 minutes on each side until they turn opaque. This is the moment where you get to see the shrimp transform from a translucent pink to a beautiful, appetizing color. Make sure not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery if left too long.

Step 4: Sauce It Up!

Now, pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and veggies in the pan. Stir constantly to allow the sauce to coat all the ingredients evenly. As the heat continues, you’ll notice the sauce thicken and become glossy—this takes about 2 minutes. The shrimp will absorb the flavors beautifully, resulting in a fragrant and sweet glaze that you’ll love!

Variations

Protein: Feel free to substitute the large shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different flavor profile.
Vegetables: Add your favorites like carrots, snap peas, or zucchini for more variety and nutrition.
Spices: Enhance the dish with additional spices like sesame oil or a splash of lime juice for an extra zing.

Cooking Notes

Ensure that shrimp are fully thawed and pat dry to achieve the best sear.
Adjust the heat by changing the amount of red pepper flakes based on your taste preferences.
For a slightly thicker sauce, you may increase the cornstarch to one and a half teaspoons.
This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked jasmine or basmati rice, soaking up any extra sauce left on the plate.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over a bed of fluffy rice for a complete meal.
Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for aesthetic appeal.

Tips

For a faster cooking process, have all ingredients prepped before starting the heat.
Using frozen shrimp can be a great time-saver; just make sure they’re completely thawed before cooking.
A splash of rice vinegar can add a delightful tang to the sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days in the refrigerator.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 320
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 680mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure they are properly thawed and patted dry before cooking.

What can I substitute for honey if I prefer not to use it?

You can use agave nectar or maple syrup as a substitute for honey in this recipe.

How can I make this dish spicy?

To increase the heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the veggies and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge.

Conclusion

This Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry offers a delightful and comforting meal that works for both quick weeknight dinners and fancy gatherings. With its combination of fresh ingredients and a rich, savory sauce, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. We hope you enjoy making and savoring this dish as much as we do. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your ingredients, tell us your variations, or share your tips in the comments below. Happy cooking!