This Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp recipe is a bright and zesty dish! Juicy shrimp are tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce made with fresh orange juice, garlic, and a kick of chili.
If you love quick meals, this one’s for you! It’s ready in no time, so you can enjoy dinner without the long wait. Plus, it’s perfect over rice or noodles! Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw them beforehand. If shrimp isn’t your thing, consider swapping it for chicken or tofu for a different take!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for this dish. In a pinch, use garlic powder—but fresh will give you the best flavor.
Chilies: Red chilies add heat and color. Adjust the number according to your spice tolerance. You can swap them for jalapeños or skip them altogether if you prefer milder flavors.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice brightens the dish. If fresh oranges are scarce, store-bought juice works too, but check for added sugars.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake. Tamari is a great gluten-free substitute.
How Can You Perfectly Cook the Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it right every time! Here’s how:
- Make sure your oil is hot but not smoking before adding garlic, to prevent it from burning.
- Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on them!
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the shrimp in the sauce for 15-30 minutes before cooking.
With these tips and ingredient insights, your Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp will be a hit on any dinner table! Enjoy! 🍤
Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 red chilies, thinly sliced (adjust to heat preference)
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro or basil leaves, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Orange slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time, for a total of about 20 minutes. It’s a quick and rewarding meal perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger (if you’re using it), and rice vinegar or lime juice. Mix it all together well and set it aside for later.
2. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil or vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot but not smoking!
3. Sauté Garlic and Chilies:
Add the minced garlic and sliced red chilies to the pan. Sauté this mixture for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown too much—burnt garlic isn’t tasty!
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, toss the shrimp into the skillet and season them with salt and black pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. They cook quickly, so don’t walk away!
5. Add the Sauce:
Pour your prepped orange sauce mixture over the shrimp. Stir everything together to evenly coat the shrimp and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken a bit and glaze the shrimp nicely.
6. Finish and Garnish:
Once done cooking, take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle the sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and any fresh herbs you like over the shrimp for added flavor and color.
7. Serve:
Transfer your shrimp to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh orange slices around the edge for that beautiful touch. Serve immediately with rice or noodles and enjoy your vibrant dish!
Enjoy this flavorful and easy Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp with friends and family! 🍤
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute for honey, you can use agave syrup, maple syrup, or brown sugar. Adjust the amount to taste, as these can differ in sweetness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. However, be careful not to overcook the shrimp during reheating!
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This flavorful shrimp pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, jasmine rice, or noodles. For a healthier option, consider serving it alongside sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the flavors!