Honey Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Quick, flavorful, and satisfying—this honey garlic shrimp with rice is the perfect 20-minute weeknight dinner! With its sweet and savory sauce coating tender shrimp, it’s a dish that works for casual family meals or special occasions. The combination of succulent shrimp and fluffy rice makes every bite a delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The honey garlic sauce adds a delightful sweetness and depth, making every bite irresistible.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice or toss in some veggies for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, you can whip this up anytime without a trip to the store.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet taste of honey garlic shrimp, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows even cooking of shrimp, ensuring they are tender and perfectly cooked.
• Mixing Bowl: Using a mixing bowl helps combine ingredients efficiently, saving time in preparation.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for blending sauces smoothly, creating that beautiful honey garlic marinade.
• Spatula: A spatula makes it easy to toss shrimp in the sauce without breaking them apart.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, or lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional (for heat)

For Serving:

• 3 cups cooked white or jasmine rice
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

How to Make Honey Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Toss shrimp with soy sauce, olive oil, and cornstarch until well coated. Set aside to marinate briefly.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger (if using), rice vinegar (or lemon juice), and red pepper flakes until fully combined.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

1. Pour the prepared sauce into the same skillet.
2. Allow it to simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine Shrimp with Sauce

1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet.
2. Toss gently to coat them evenly in the sauce.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve the honey garlic shrimp over warm rice.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before enjoying!

How to Serve Honey Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Serving honey garlic shrimp with rice is a delightful experience that balances flavors and textures. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your meal.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Broccoli: Quickly sauté broccoli in olive oil for a crunchy contrast.
• Steamed Snap Peas: These add a sweet crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
• Sautéed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers bring sweetness and a pop of color.

Garnish Creatively

• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and freshness.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for an extra tangy kick when served.
• Crushed Peanuts: For added crunch, sprinkle some crushed peanuts on top.

Pair with Different Rice Varieties

• Brown Rice: Offers a nuttier flavor and is a healthier option.
• Coconut Rice: Sweet coconut-infused rice enhances the dish’s tropical vibe.
• Quinoa: This protein-packed alternative makes for a nutritious base.

How to Perfect Honey Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Achieving the perfect honey garlic shrimp requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and garlic make a big difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until pink for the best texture.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If too thick, add a splash of water or broth to achieve desired consistency.
• Balance Sweetness and Savory: Taste the sauce and adjust honey or soy sauce as needed for balance.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Complementing honey garlic shrimp with tasty side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance and freshness.
2. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic provide a savory crunch.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers and vinegar pairs well for contrast.
4. Mango Salsa: Sweet mango salsa brings brightness and complements the shrimp nicely.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the savory notes of the dish.
6. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking honey garlic shrimp with rice can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly. If you leave them in the skillet too long, they’ll become rubbery. Cook for just 1–2 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque.
• Ignoring the Sauce’s Thickness: A sauce that is too runny won’t cling well to the shrimp. Simmer it until slightly thickened, which enhances the flavor and texture.
• Using Cold Rice: Serving shrimp over cold rice can spoil the dish’s warmth. Always reheat your rice before serving to ensure a comforting meal.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Garlic and ginger add significant flavor. Use fresh garlic cloves and ginger instead of powdered versions for the best taste.
• Neglecting Garnishes: Garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds not only enhance presentation but also add layers of flavor. Don’t skip this step for a complete dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store honey garlic shrimp with rice in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Honey Garlic Shrimp with Rice

• Place shrimp and rice in freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, shrimp may lose some texture upon thawing.

Reheating Honey Garlic Shrimp with Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe container, cover, and heat on medium power for about 2–3 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making honey garlic shrimp with rice:

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat to your honey garlic shrimp with rice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sliced fresh chilies during cooking.

What type of rice pairs best with honey garlic shrimp?

Jasmine or white rice works wonderfully due to their fluffy texture that complements the sauce well.

Can I customize the sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences by adding more honey for sweetness or vinegar for acidity.

Final Thoughts

Honey garlic shrimp with rice is a delightful dish that combines sweet, savory flavors in just 20 minutes. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients while still enjoying a satisfying meal. Don’t hesitate to try it out and make it your own!