Are you looking for a quick and tasty meal? My Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry is perfect for busy nights. This dish is not just easy to make; it’s bursting with flavor. In just a few steps, you’ll whip up a meal that impresses everyone at your table. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking tips that will turn this simple recipe into your new favorite!

Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry
To make this dish, gather these main ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced
These ingredients bring a sweet and savory flavor. The shrimp add protein, while the veggies give crunch and color.
Cooking Oils Needed
You will need two cooking oils for the best taste:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
The olive oil helps cook the shrimp and veggies. Sesame oil adds a nutty flavor that shines through.
Suggested Garnishes
To finish your dish, consider these garnishes:
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
These garnishes add texture and a pop of color. They make your Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry look and taste even better.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Honey Garlic Sauce
To make the honey garlic sauce, grab a small bowl. In this bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of honey, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger. This mix brings a sweet and savory taste to your dish. Set the sauce aside for later.
Cooking the Shrimp
Next, heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Once the oil is hot, toss in 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp. Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes. Watch as they turn pink. This means they are almost done. When they look good, take them out of the skillet and set them aside.
Stir-Frying the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper, 1 cup of broccoli florets, and 1 thinly sliced carrot. Stir-fry these veggies for about 4-5 minutes. You want them to be bright and still a little crunchy. This keeps their flavor fresh and vibrant.
Combining Ingredients and Final Steps
Now it's time to bring it all together. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the veggies. Pour your honey garlic sauce over everything. Stir well to coat all the ingredients evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. This heats the sauce and makes sure the shrimp are fully cooked. Once everything looks great, you are ready to serve. Enjoy this dish over jasmine rice or quinoa. For a lovely touch, garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Cooking Shrimp
To cook shrimp well, start with fresh or thawed shrimp. Always peel and devein them for a clean taste. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the shrimp sear better. Heat your skillet until it's hot before adding oil. This keeps shrimp from sticking. Cook shrimp in batches if your skillet is small. This ensures even cooking and a nice sear.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
To amp up the flavor, use high-quality honey. It adds a rich sweetness. Fresh ginger and garlic are key. They bring a bright taste to the dish. You can also add a splash of lime juice. It adds a nice zing. If you like a kick, try adding red pepper flakes. They give your stir fry an exciting heat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not overcook shrimp. They turn rubbery and tough if cooked too long. Keep an eye on the color. Shrimp should turn pink and opaque. Avoid crowding the skillet. This leads to steaming instead of stir-frying. Finally, do not skip the garnishes. Sesame seeds and green onions make your dish look great. They also add texture and flavor.
Variations
Adding Different Vegetables
You can change the veggies in this dish to suit your taste. Try adding snap peas for a crisp bite. You can also use mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Bok choy works well too, adding a nice crunch. Carrots can be swapped for zucchini, which cooks fast. Just remember to cut your veggies in similar sizes for even cooking.
Alternative Sauces to Consider
While the honey garlic sauce is tasty, feel free to mix it up. Teriyaki sauce adds a sweet and tangy twist. A spicy chili garlic sauce can bring heat. If you love citrus, try mixing in some fresh orange juice. Each sauce gives the shrimp its own unique flair.
Swapping Proteins for Shrimp
Not in the mood for shrimp? You can easily swap it for chicken or tofu. Chicken thighs add rich flavor. Just slice it thin so it cooks fast. Tofu gives a nice vegetarian option. Make sure to press it to remove extra water. This way, it gets nice and crispy when cooked.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store your honey garlic shrimp stir fry, keep it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down first. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. This helps keep the flavors fresh.
Reheating Tips
When you reheat the stir fry, use a skillet or a microwave. If using a skillet, heat it on medium. Add a splash of water or oil to help steam the dish. If using the microwave, cover the container loosely. Heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze honey garlic shrimp stir fry for up to three months. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it in a skillet or microwave. Enjoy the flavors just as you did fresh!
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the honey garlic sauce ahead. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. You can also chop the veggies in advance. However, I suggest cooking the shrimp fresh. This keeps the shrimp tender and juicy. You can stir-fry everything when you’re ready to eat.
Is it possible to use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just remember to thaw them first. Place the shrimp in cold water for about 20 minutes. Once thawed, drain and pat them dry. This step helps your shrimp cook evenly. Frozen shrimp can still taste great when cooked properly.
What can I serve with Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry?
I recommend serving this dish over jasmine rice or quinoa. Both options soak up the honey garlic sauce well. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables for more color and nutrition. If you like, serve it with spring rolls or a simple salad. These sides make the meal even more satisfying.
This article covered how to make an easy honey garlic shrimp stir fry. We discussed the main ingredients, cooking oils, and garnishes. I shared step-by-step instructions for sauce prep, cooking shrimp, and stir-frying veggies. You learned tips for flavor and how to avoid common mistakes. I also mentioned variations and storage tips for leftovers.
Remember, this dish is flexible and fun. Enjoy your cooking and make it your own!

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