Looking for a quick and tasty meal? Try my Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry! This dish is full of flavor and takes just minutes to make. With succulent shrimp, fresh veggies, and a sweet garlic sauce, it’s perfect for busy nights or any time you crave a satisfying dish. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps that make this stir fry a standout meal!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced
– 1 cup snap peas
– 1 cup broccoli florets
You need fresh large shrimp for this dish. They should be clean and ready to cook. Honey adds a sweet touch, while garlic gives a strong flavor. Fresh vegetables like bell pepper, snap peas, and broccoli add color and crunch.
Sauce and Oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
Soy sauce is key for saltiness. I prefer low-sodium for a better balance. Sesame oil brings a nutty flavor. Vegetable oil helps cook the shrimp and veggies. Fresh ginger adds a warm zest.
Garnishes
– Sesame seeds
– Green onions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Garnishes make your dish look great. Sesame seeds add a nice crunch. Green onions brighten the meal and add freshness. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to boost flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Shrimp
– Prepare the shrimp by peeling and deveining them.
– In a bowl, mix the shrimp with honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Toss well. Let this sit for 15 minutes to soak in the flavors.
Cooking the Shrimp
– Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
– Once it’s hot, add the marinated shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables
– Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil to the same skillet.
– Stir-fry sliced bell pepper, snap peas, and broccoli florets for about 5 minutes. They should be bright and tender-crisp.
Combining Ingredients
– Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the vegetables.
– Pour in 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together and cook for another 2 minutes.
Finalizing the Dish
– Remove the skillet from heat and serve the stir fry on a platter.
– Top with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– To make shrimp tender, marinate them for 15 minutes. Honey adds sweetness and moisture.
– Cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque. This means they are done.
– For vegetables, cut them into similar sizes. This helps them cook evenly.
– Stir-fry veggies on high heat for crisp texture. Don’t overcook; they should stay bright and crunchy.
Flavor Enhancements
– Add red pepper flakes for heat. They give the dish a nice kick.
– Use garlic powder for extra flavor. It blends well with the fresh garlic.
– Try using maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey. Both add sweetness with a twist.
Meal Prep Tips
– Chop your veggies and shrimp ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for quick access.
– Mix the sauce in advance. This saves time during cooking.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days.
Variations
Dietary Modifications
If you need gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Tamari has the same great taste but is safe for those who avoid gluten. If you are on a low-carb diet, skip the honey. You can use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit. These options keep the sweet flavor but reduce the carbs.
Ingredient Swaps
You can switch up the protein in this dish easily. Chicken works well, too, or you can even use tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces and follow the same steps. For vegetables, feel free to experiment. Carrots, zucchini, or snap peas can add more color and crunch. Use what you have in your fridge.
Serving Suggestions
Honey garlic shrimp stir fry pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles. Serve it over white or brown rice for a filling meal. You can also toss in some rice noodles for a fun twist. If you’re feeling creative, add a side like stir-fry rice. This adds more texture and flavor, making your meal even more delightful.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store your honey garlic shrimp stir fry, place it in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh. Make sure to let it cool before sealing. The best practice for refrigeration is to store it within two hours of cooking. If you want to freeze it, use freezer-safe bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. This helps prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, I suggest using the stove or microwave. For the stove, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir gently until heated through. If using the microwave, cover the dish loosely. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid cooking it too much. This keeps your shrimp tender.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, honey garlic shrimp stir fry lasts about three days. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating. In the freezer, it can last up to two months. Just remember to label your containers with the date. This way, you can keep track of how long it has been stored.
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I make honey garlic shrimp stir fry in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead. Store them in the fridge. Just cook the veggies fresh to keep them crisp.
What can I substitute for honey?
You can use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey. Both options work well and add sweetness.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce. You can also use spicy garlic sauce for more heat.
Ingredient-Specific Questions
What is the best type of shrimp to use?
Large shrimp are best for this dish. They cook evenly and look great on the plate. Fresh shrimp will give the best flavor.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Just thaw them in cold water before cooking. This saves time for busy cooks.
Cooking Technique Questions
Why is my shrimp tough?
Shrimp can become tough if overcooked. Cook them just until pink and opaque for the best texture.
What to do if the sauce is too thick/thin?
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth. For thin sauce, let it simmer longer to thicken.
You can make a delicious honey garlic shrimp stir fry with ease. We discussed the key ingredients, like shrimp, honey, and fresh veggies. I shared step-by-step instructions to help you cook perfectly tender shrimp and vibrant vegetables. With tips for meal prep and variations, this dish suits every taste and diet. Lastly, I covered how to store and reheat leftovers safely. Enjoy creating your own version of this tasty dish and share it with others for a delightful meal!
