This Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp is a zesty and flavorful dish that brings together the bright taste of oranges with a spicy kick! The shrimp cook quickly, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Trust me, the sweet and spicy sauce makes you want to eat every last bite. I often serve it over rice or noodles to soak up all that yummy sauce. You’ll love it too! 🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Opt for large, fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor. If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp works well too; just thaw them properly. For a different protein, you can try chicken or tofu, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice is best for flavor, but bottled orange juice can work in a pinch. You could substitute it with other citrus juices like lemon or lime, but the taste will change a bit. For a twist, try adding a splash of pineapple juice.
Chili Flakes: The heat of the dish mostly comes from these flakes. If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount or substitute with a milder option like smoked paprika or omit it entirely for a non-spicy version.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both add sweetness to the sauce. If you need a vegan option, maple syrup is great. You can also use agave nectar or a sugar substitute like stevia, adjusting the quantity to taste.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Shrimp Without Overcooking?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky because they cook very quickly! Here are some tips to get them just right:
- Make sure the oil is hot before adding the shrimp; this helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you’re cooking a lot, do it in batches.
- Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from heat right away to prevent overcooking.
Following these tips will ensure your shrimp are juicy and tender, making your Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp a delicious success! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on for presentation if desired)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (from about 1-2 oranges)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1-2 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 10 minutes of cooking time, so you can have a delicious meal ready in just about 20 minutes! It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better in the skillet. Season the shrimp lightly with salt and black pepper on both sides.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
In the same skillet, you can add a little more oil if needed. Add minced garlic and ginger to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown as it can taste bitter.
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the fresh orange juice, orange zest, chili flakes, soy sauce, and honey (or maple syrup) into the skillet with the garlic and ginger. Stir well, and let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens.
5. Combine and Heat:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss them in the orange chili garlic sauce to coat evenly. Cook everything together for about 1 minute to let the flavors meld.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Remove from heat and transfer the shrimp along with the sauce to a serving bowl. Garnish with sliced green onions, chopped cilantro or parsley, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds if you like.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy this vibrant dish full of citrusy sweetness, garlicky depth, and just the right amount of spice!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw your frozen shrimp completely before cooking. The best way to thaw them is to place them in the refrigerator overnight, or you can use the quick method by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about 20-30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Orange Juice?
If you don’t have orange juice, you can use freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice for a tangy twist. Another great option is pineapple juice, which will add a nice sweetness to the dish, although the flavor profile will change slightly.
How Can I Make This Dish Less Spicy?
If you’re looking to tone down the spice level, simply reduce the amount of chili flakes or omit them entirely. You can also substitute them with a milder seasoning like paprika if you still want some flavor without the heat.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a little splash of fresh orange juice to brighten up the flavors!
