Bourbon glazed shrimp is a tasty dish that mixes sweet and slightly smoky flavors. The shrimp are tossed in a delightful sauce made from bourbon, soy sauce, and brown sugar!
You can serve this dish as a fun appetizer or a main meal with rice. It’s quick to make, so perfect for when you need a special treat on a busy day! 🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this dish, but you can use medium or small shrimp if that’s what you have. If you don’t like shrimp, try chicken or tofu for a different twist!
Bourbon Whiskey: Bourbon adds a unique flavor. If you prefer not to use alcohol, consider apple cider vinegar or a mix of water with a splash of vanilla extract instead.
Brown Sugar: This is essential for sweetness. If you’re looking for a lower-glycemic alternative, coconut sugar or maple syrup works well too!
Garlic & Ginger: Fresh minced garlic and grated ginger boost the flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder and ground ginger can be used, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
How Do I Cook the Shrimp Just Right?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky as they cook quickly. Taking a few steps ensures they come out perfectly tender:
- Pat the shrimp dry before cooking to help achieve a nice sear.
- Cook them just until they’re pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming them.
Perfectly cooked shrimp are juicy and not rubbery! Follow these tips, and you’ll impress everyone at the table.
How to Make Bourbon Glazed Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful bourbon glazed shrimp can be prepared in about 15-20 minutes. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely in the pan. Sprinkle a little salt and black pepper over them to season.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them! Once done, remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger (if you’re using it). Sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell that yummy aroma. Then, carefully pour in the bourbon whiskey to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits at the bottom. Let it simmer for about 1-2 minutes until it reduces slightly.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the brown sugar and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook the sauce on medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, or until it thickens into a lovely glaze.
5. Finish the Dish:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the bourbon glaze until they are nicely coated and heated through, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve:
Transfer the bourbon glazed shrimp to a serving plate. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the pan over the shrimp and garnish with the sliced green onions. Enjoy this delicious dish right away, perhaps with some steamed rice or fresh vegetable sticks!
Enjoy your rich, flavorful bourbon glazed shrimp!
Can I Use Different Types of Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While large shrimp work best for a nice bite, you can use medium or even small shrimp if that’s what you have. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary a little.
What Can I Substitute for Bourbon?
If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute bourbon with apple cider vinegar mixed with a little water and a splash of vanilla extract for similar flavors. Alternatively, non-alcoholic bourbon-flavored sauces are available as well!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time. Cook according to the recipe, then store the cooled shrimp and sauce separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and toss in the shrimp until warmed through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to ensure even heating and avoid overcooking the shrimp.