Flavorful Hoisin Glazed Shrimp: Your New Go-To 15-Minute Dinner Recipe
Shrimp has quickly become one of my absolute favorite proteins to cook with, a sentiment I couldn’t have genuinely expressed just a couple of years ago. For a long time, I didn’t particularly enjoy eating it, and more importantly, I struggled with knowing when it was perfectly cooked. This often resulted in overcooked, rubbery shrimp whenever I prepared it for my husband. Oh, how times have changed! Now that I’ve developed a true appreciation for shrimp, I’ve also mastered the art of cooking it just right. Its remarkably quick cooking time makes it an ideal choice for those hectic weeknights when you need a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in a flash.
Discovering a Family Favorite: Hoisin Glazed Shrimp
This fantastic recipe for Hoisin Glazed Shrimp came into our lives thanks to my friend Tracey, who shared a version of it a few months back. Anything with hoisin sauce is a guaranteed hit in our household – its rich, sweet, and savory profile is simply irresistible. So, naturally, I was immediately drawn to this recipe. It took me a little while to finally incorporate it into our meal rotation, but I’m thrilled to say that these hoisin glazed shrimp have earned a permanent spot on our menu and will be making regular appearances. The combination of succulent shrimp and that deeply flavorful glaze is a match made in culinary heaven.
A Kid-Approved Seafood Sensation
My 8-year-old son has always been an avid fan of all sorts of seafood. I think salmon is perhaps the only marine delight he hasn’t fully embraced. My husband and I were just laughing the other night, joking that if I had simply told him the artichokes mixed into dinner were some kind of exotic seafood, he wouldn’t have thought twice about eating them! So, to merely say he “liked” these shrimp would be a significant understatement. He devoured them with such enthusiasm that I’m seriously considering doubling all my shrimp recipes from now on, just so my husband and I actually get to enjoy some too!
The Magic of Hoisin Sauce: A Sweet and Savory Secret Weapon
Hoisin sauce is a cornerstone of Asian cuisine, renowned for its unique blend of sweet, savory, and tangy notes. Often described as Chinese barbecue sauce, it features ingredients like fermented soybeans, garlic, vinegar, sugar, and chili. This complex flavor profile makes it incredibly versatile, perfect for marinades, stir-fries, and, as you’ll discover, glazing shrimp. When heated, hoisin sauce develops a beautiful caramelization, clinging to the shrimp and infusing every bite with an explosion of deliciousness. Its natural richness pairs wonderfully with the delicate sweetness of shrimp, creating a harmonious and balanced dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
Mastering Shrimp: Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
Cooking shrimp can be intimidating for many, but it’s actually one of the easiest proteins to prepare once you know a few tricks. The key is its quick cooking time; shrimp goes from raw to perfectly pink and opaque in mere minutes. Overcooking is the most common mistake, resulting in that rubbery texture I used to dread. Look for shrimp that curl into a loose “C” shape and turn a vibrant pink. If they curl into a tight “O,” they’re likely overcooked.
Buying and Prepping Shrimp
- Fresh vs. Frozen: Don’t be afraid of frozen shrimp! Most “fresh” shrimp at the seafood counter have likely been previously frozen and thawed. Buying frozen allows you to thaw them just before use, ensuring maximum freshness.
- Peeling and Deveining: While you can buy pre-peeled and deveined shrimp, doing it yourself is simple and often more economical. To devein, make a shallow cut along the back curve of the shrimp and remove the dark vein.
- Pat Dry: Always pat your shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels before cooking. This helps them sear beautifully, locking in flavor and preventing them from steaming.
Cooking Method for Hoisin Glazed Shrimp
For this recipe, pan-searing on medium-high heat is ideal. The hot skillet allows the shrimp to cook quickly and evenly, developing a slight crispness before the luscious hoisin glaze is added. This method ensures that the shrimp remains tender and juicy, absorbing the vibrant flavors of the sauce without becoming tough.
Elevate Your Meal: Serving Suggestions and Customizations
While serving this Hoisin Glazed Shrimp over steamed white or brown rice is a classic and satisfying choice, don’t hesitate to get creative with your side dishes and garnishes. The versatility of this recipe allows for many delicious variations to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
Beyond Basic Rice
- Noodle Bowls: Serve over stir-fried noodles like lo mein or ramen for a heartier meal.
- Lettuce Wraps: Create light and refreshing lettuce wraps by spooning the shrimp into crisp lettuce cups (like butter or iceberg lettuce).
- Vegetable Medley: Toss with steamed or stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, bell peppers, or carrots for an all-in-one dish.
- Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice: For a healthier or low-carb option, pair with quinoa or cauliflower rice.
Customizing the Flavor
- Add Heat: If you love spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha to the hoisin mixture.
- Citrus Zest: A squeeze of fresh lime or orange juice, or a little zest, can brighten the flavors of the glaze.
- Sesame Oil: A tiny drizzle of toasted sesame oil at the very end adds a wonderful aromatic depth.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in some thinly sliced garlic, grated carrots, or even some finely chopped bell peppers into the pan with the shrimp for added nutrition and crunch.
Hoisin Glazed Shrimp
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Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 Tablespoon rice vinegar
- 3 teaspoons water
- 1 Tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 Tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 12 oz large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- salt & pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons canola oil
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
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In a small bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, water, grated fresh ginger, low-sodium soy sauce, and red pepper flakes until thoroughly combined. This is your flavorful glaze!
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Gently pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear, then season lightly with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for approximately 1-2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
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Once the shrimp are almost fully cooked, pour the prepared hoisin mixture over them. Toss the shrimp quickly to ensure they are evenly coated in the rich, sweet, and savory glaze. Continue cooking for another minute or so, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and fully adhere to the shrimp.
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Serve your delicious Hoisin Glazed Shrimp immediately over a bed of fluffy rice. Garnish generously with thinly sliced green onions for a fresh, aromatic finish and a pop of color. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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Why This Hoisin Glazed Shrimp Will Become Your Weeknight Hero
This Hoisin Glazed Shrimp recipe isn’t just fast; it’s a game-changer for anyone looking for a flavorful and healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or time. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey with seafood, the simplicity and delicious outcome of this dish will impress. The balanced sweet and savory glaze, combined with the perfectly cooked, tender shrimp, creates a meal that feels gourmet but comes together in just 15 minutes. It’s the ideal solution for busy families, meal preppers, or anyone craving a vibrant, Asian-inspired dinner.
Give this Hoisin Glazed Shrimp a try tonight. You might find yourself, like me, wondering why you didn’t fall in love with cooking shrimp sooner. And who knows, you might even have to start doubling the recipe to keep up with demand from your own enthusiastic eaters!