Craving a quick and delicious meal? Look no further! My Garlic Honey Shrimp Stir Fry is packed with flavor and easy to make. With just a few key ingredients, you can whip up this tasty dish in under thirty minutes. Follow my simple steps to create a sweet-savory masterpiece that will wow your family and friends. Let’s dive into the details and make dinner something special tonight!
Ingredients
To make a delicious garlic honey shrimp stir fry, gather these simple ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 1 cup snap peas
– 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
– Sesame seeds (for garnish)
– Cooked jasmine rice (for serving)
These ingredients come together to create a meal that is quick and full of flavor. I love how the shrimp pairs with the sweet honey and salty soy sauce. The fresh ginger adds a nice kick, while the vegetables keep the dish vibrant and healthy. Remember to use large shrimp for this dish. They cook quickly and stay juicy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
To start, you need to prep the shrimp. Use large shrimp, as they cook faster and taste great. Peel and devein them if not done already. Rinse them under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps them cook better.
Next, let’s cut the vegetables. Slice the bell pepper into thin strips. This makes it easy to stir-fry. Snap peas can be left whole, but trim the ends. This keeps them fresh and crunchy. Fresh ginger adds flavor, so grate it finely to release its aroma.
Cooking the Shrimp
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and the grated ginger. Sauté them for about 30 seconds. You want the kitchen to smell amazing!
Now, toss in the shrimp. Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes. They will turn pink and start to curl. This means they are nearly done. Make sure to stir them often to avoid burning.
Completing the Stir Fry
After the shrimp are cooked, it’s time to add the veggies. Toss in the sliced bell pepper and snap peas. Stir-fry everything for another 2 to 3 minutes. You want the vegetables to be tender but still crisp.
Now, for the tasty part! In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of honey and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Pour this honey-soy mixture over the shrimp and veggies. Toss everything to coat well. Cook for an extra 1 to 2 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken a bit.
Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. This adds a nice crunch and flavor. Serve the stir fry over cooked jasmine rice for a complete meal. Enjoy your flavorful dish!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Flavor Balance
To balance sweetness and savoriness, use the right amount of honey. Start with 1/4 cup, then taste as you cook. If it’s too sweet, add a splash more soy sauce. The saltiness of soy sauce adds depth. You can also add a dash of lime juice for brightness. This will enhance the flavor without making it too sweet.
Cooking Techniques
For the best stir-fry, keep your pan hot. Use high heat to quickly cook the shrimp. This helps them stay tender. Stir often to cook everything evenly. To prevent overcooking shrimp, watch for color change. Cook shrimp until they turn pink and curl. This usually takes 2-3 minutes. Remove them from the pan as soon as they are done.
Serving Suggestions
While jasmine rice is a great side, you can try more options. Serve with quinoa for a nutty flavor. Cauliflower rice is a low-carb choice. Steamed broccoli or stir-fried bok choy also work well. These sides add color and nutrition to your meal. Enjoy mixing and matching to find your favorite!
Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can swap shrimp for other proteins. Chicken works great, too. Just cut it into small pieces. Cook it until it’s no longer pink. Tofu is a fantastic vegetarian option. Use firm tofu, and sauté it until golden brown. This adds a nice texture.
Vegetable Substitutions
Feel free to change the veggies in this dish. Bell peppers are colorful and sweet. Snap peas add a nice crunch. You can use seasonal veggies like zucchini or carrots. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces. This keeps cooking time quick and even.
Flavor Additions
Want to spice things up? Add some red pepper flakes for heat. You can also mix in sesame oil for extra flavor. Try adding a splash of lime juice. This gives a fresh twist and brightens the dish. These small changes can really make a big difference!
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
To store leftovers, place the stir fry in a sealed container. Make sure it cools down first. Refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. This keeps the shrimp fresh for up to three days. Keeping the sauce separate helps maintain the texture of the shrimp and veggies.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir gently until it’s warm, about five minutes. You can also microwave it for two minutes, stirring halfway. This step helps keep the shrimp tender and prevents it from becoming rubbery.
Freezing Options
You can freeze the stir fry if you want to save some for later. Place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave. The veggies may soften a bit, but the flavor stays great!
FAQs
What can I use instead of honey?
You can use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey. These options add sweetness and work well in this dish. Brown sugar mixed with water also makes a good alternative. Adjust the amount based on your taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe can be gluten-free! Use tamari instead of soy sauce. Tamari has a similar flavor but is made without wheat. Always check labels for hidden gluten ingredients. This way, you keep the dish safe for everyone.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the shrimp and veggies, then store them in the fridge. Reheat before serving. The flavors will mix well, making it even tastier. Just be sure to cook the shrimp until they are pink and firm.
This article covered a delicious shrimp stir fry recipe. We went through the key ingredients and step-by-step cooking instructions. You learned tips for flavor balance and cooking techniques. I offered alternatives for proteins and veggies, plus storage and reheating methods.
In the end, this dish offers great taste and flexibility. You can create a meal you love, every time. Enjoy making it your own!
