These Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp are a tasty treat! They’re juicy shrimp tossed in a spicy-sweet sauce made from fresh orange juice and garlic. Yum!
Honestly, the zesty flavor makes my taste buds dance! 🍤 I love to serve them over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that’s ready in minutes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for this dish. If fresh is unavailable, frozen shrimp work perfectly too. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Just remember, fresh has a stronger taste!
Chili Peppers: Adjust the number based on how spicy you like your food. You can replace them with red pepper flakes if that’s what you have on hand.
Orange Juice: Fresh orange juice is the way to go. If you need a substitute, use a mix of other citrus juices, but the flavor will change slightly.
Honey/Brown Sugar: If you want a healthier option, feel free to use maple syrup or agave syrup. They’re great alternatives!
Ginger: This adds a nice warmth. You can omit it if you don’t have any, or use ground ginger as a substitute – just a little will do!
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but there are some easy tips to get it just right. You want them to be pink and opaque when done. Here’s how to nail it:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the shrimp.
- Cook them in a single layer to avoid steaming.
- Only take about 1-2 minutes per side; they’ll curl up tightly when cooked through.
- Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery, so keep an eye on them!
Follow these steps for perfectly tender and delicious shrimp every time!
Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 fresh red chili peppers, thinly sliced (adjust to heat preference)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 medium orange)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
- Cooked white rice or jasmine rice, for serving
- Orange slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at just about 20 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar (or lime juice), grated ginger (if you’re using it), and sesame oil. Mix it all up and set it aside for later!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil is nice and hot, add the minced garlic and sliced red chilies. Sauté them for about 30 seconds until they’re fragrant but be careful not to let them burn!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 1-2 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a lovely pink color and are cooked through!
4. Add the Sauce:
Pour the orange sauce mixture over the shrimp, making sure to stir well to coat every piece evenly. Let the sauce bubble and reduce slightly for about 1-2 minutes, until it thickens a bit and clings beautifully to the shrimp.
5. Finish Off your Dish:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the dish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a delightful crunch. If you like, toss on some fresh cilantro leaves, too!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the shrimp over steamed white or jasmine rice and garnished with extra orange slices. The fresh aroma and bright colors are sure to impress everyone at the table!
Enjoy your vibrant, flavorful Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp, perfectly balanced between sweet, spicy, and savory!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the fridge overnight or by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about 30-40 minutes.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Orange Juice?
If fresh orange juice is unavailable, you can use bottled orange juice – just ensure it’s 100% pure with no added sugars. However, fresh juice will yield the best flavor!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While the shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the sauce ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Cook the shrimp right before serving for the best texture and flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave, as shrimp can become tough if overcooked!
