This Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp is a tasty blend of sweet and spicy. It’s quick to make, with fresh shrimp tossed in a zesty orange sauce that packs a punch!
I love how this dish makes my kitchen smell amazing! Serve it with rice or noodles and trust me, you’ll want to eat it all in one sitting. Who can resist shrimp in orange goodness? 🥡
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Using large shrimp gives a nice bite, but you can use smaller shrimp if that’s what you have. If you’re avoiding seafood, try chicken or tofu as alternatives for this dish.
Orange: Fresh oranges are ideal for both juice and zest, giving the dish a bright flavor. If you’re out of oranges, go for a mix of lemon and lime juice, but adjust the sweetness in the sauce.
Chili Flakes: They add spice to the dish. If you like it milder, reduce the amount, or use sweet paprika instead for flavor without the heat.
Honey/Brown Sugar: I prefer honey for its rich sweetness, but you can use coconut sugar or agave syrup as a vegan option.
How Do You Sauté Shrimp Perfectly?
Sautéing shrimp is quick and easy, but timing is key. Here’s how to achieve perfectly cooked shrimp:
- Make sure your pan and oil are hot before adding the shrimp. This helps them cook evenly.
- Cook shrimp in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding the pan. This ensures they get nicely browned.
- Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from heat right away to prevent overcooking.
By following these tips, you’ll serve perfectly tender shrimp every time! Enjoy your meal! 🦐
How to Make Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- For the Sauce:
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1–2 tsp chili flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making the total roughly 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
First, in a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, chili flakes, and honey. This vibrant sauce is the star of the dish, so make sure it’s well mixed and then set it aside for later!
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. It should get hot enough to shimmer, which is a sign it’s ready for cooking!
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the hot skillet and sauté it for about 30 seconds. You’ll want to keep an eye on it, as you want it fragrant, not burned!
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, toss in the shrimp and season them lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a delightful pink and become opaque.
5. Add the Bell Pepper:
Now it’s time to add the sliced red bell pepper. Stir it in gently and let it cook for about a minute. This will soften the pepper just a bit while keeping it crunchy.
6. Combine with Sauce:
Pour the orange chili sauce you prepared earlier over the shrimp and pepper mixture. Toss everything to coat it evenly and cook for another 1-2 minutes. You want the sauce to thicken slightly and glaze the shrimp beautifully!
7. Finish and Garnish:
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the sliced green onions and chopped cilantro for a fresh finish. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp hot over steamed rice, noodles, or alongside steamed veggies. Enjoy this burst of flavors with every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
How Spicy is This Dish?
The level of spice can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili flakes you use. Start with 1 teaspoon for a mild kick and increase it to 2 teaspoons if you like it hot! You can also add sliced fresh chilies for an extra punch.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute shrimp with tofu or large vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Adjust the cooking time as needed since vegetables may take longer or shorter to cook, depending on their size.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Enjoy your meal again!
