If you want to add a vibrant and exciting twist to your dinner rotation, this Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Recipe is a total game-changer. Bursting with bold Korean flavors, the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy notes makes each bite unforgettable. The succulent shrimp soak up a luscious glaze, while fresh lime juice and garlic brighten the dish, ensuring you get a mouthwatering experience that is both quick and deeply satisfying. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a weekend indulgence, this recipe brings a delicious punch that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward and perfectly balanced to create that crave-worthy flavor profile. Each one is essential, contributing its own unique character to the dish, from the heat and depth of gochujang to the brightness of lime juice and the subtle nuttiness of sesame oil.
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Fresh or thawed shrimp ensure tender, juicy bites that carry all the flavors beautifully.
- 2 tbsp gochujang: This Korean fermented chili paste packs the spicy, umami punch that forms the heart of the recipe.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic adds a delicious pungency and depth that enhances every component.
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce: For a salty, savory base that perfectly balances the sweetness.
- 1 tbsp honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness, rounding out the heat with a smooth finish.
- 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed): Fresh lime juice offers a bright, acidic lift that awakens the dish.
- 1 tsp sesame oil: Gives a subtle toasted fragrance that elevates the overall aroma.
- 2 green onions (chopped, for garnish): For a fresh, crisp bite and a pop of color when serving.
- Cooked basmati rice or noodles (for serving): Acts as the perfect base to soak up all the delicious sauce.
How to Make Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
First things first, gather all your ingredients to streamline the cooking process. Having everything ready and within reach will make your kitchen time much more enjoyable and stress-free.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the gochujang, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and sesame oil. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth. This spicy and tangy sauce is what gives the shrimp that irresistible flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer so they cook evenly. Cook the shrimp for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. This ensures they stay juicy and tender.
Step 4: Add the Garlic
During the last minute of cooking, toss in the minced garlic and stir it around. This final step infuses the shrimp with a fragrant aroma and subtle heat that complements the gochujang perfectly.
Step 5: Coat the Shrimp in Sauce
Pour your prepared sauce over the shrimp in the skillet and cook for one more minute. Stir well to coat each piece with the glossy, spicy glaze. The sauce will thicken slightly, making the dish irresistibly sticky and flavorful.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Serve the shrimp piping hot over a bed of basmati rice or noodles, garnished with fresh green onions. This makes a complete, satisfying meal with layers of flavor and texture.
How to Serve Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
The chopped green onions add a crisp, fresh contrast to the heat and richness of the shrimp. You might also sprinkle a few toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch that matches the sesame oil’s flavor. Fresh lime wedges on the side let everyone add a zestful squeeze to brighten their plate even more.
Side Dishes
This Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides that let the main dish shine. Steamed jasmine or basmati rice provides a fragrant cushion for the saucy shrimp. Alternatively, cold cucumber salad or lightly sautéed greens like bok choy offer refreshing and light complements that balance the spice.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking beyond the typical plate can be so fun! Try serving the shrimp wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, hand-held bite. Using it as a vibrant topping over avocado toast or a crunchy salad bowl also makes for beautiful presentation and an unexpected flavor boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the shrimp to cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store leftovers in the refrigerator and enjoy within 2 days for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing
While shrimp can be frozen, it’s best to freeze the cooked shrimp and sauce separately to maintain texture. Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce and prevent the shrimp from drying out. Microwaving is convenient, but take care to heat in short bursts to avoid toughness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to achieve the best texture and flavor.
Is gochujang very spicy?
Gochujang has a moderate level of heat with a deep, savory sweetness. The heat builds gradually, so it’s perfect if you like flavor with a bit of a kick but not overwhelming spice.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Recipe?
Yes! If you prefer milder heat, reduce the amount of gochujang or mix it with a little ketchup or tomato paste. For extra heat, add some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftover shrimp taste fantastic tossed into salads, folded into wraps, or stirred into fried rice. Just reheat lightly to keep the shrimp tender and juicy.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Just swap regular soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos, and ensure gochujang is a gluten-free variety. This makes the recipe safe for gluten-sensitive eaters without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Recipe enough for anyone craving a bold and straightforward dish that’s packed with flavor and quick to make. It’s one of those recipes that feels special and satisfying but comes together without any fuss. Give it a try and watch it become a fast favorite in your kitchen, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Print
Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Korean-inspired
Description
This Spicy Gochujang Shrimp recipe features succulent large shrimp cooked in a vibrant, flavorful sauce made with gochujang, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and sesame oil. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a quick and exciting dish perfect for a weeknight dinner served over basmati rice or noodles, garnished with fresh green onions for a delightful touch.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tbsp gochujang
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cooking oil (for skillet)
Garnish and Serving
- 2 green onions (chopped, for garnish)
- Cooked basmati rice or noodles (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process and easy access during preparation.
- Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together gochujang, low-sodium soy sauce, honey, freshly squeezed lime juice, and sesame oil until well combined into a flavorful marinade.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for 3 to 4 minutes on one side until pink and opaque, then flip and cook the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Garlic: During the last minute of cooking the shrimp, add the minced garlic to the skillet, stirring frequently until fragrant but not burnt, enhancing the shrimp with fresh garlic aroma.
- Add Sauce to Shrimp: Pour the prepared gochujang sauce over the shrimp in the skillet. Stir well and cook for an additional minute allowing the shrimp to become fully coated and the sauce to slightly thicken and warm through.
- Serve: Serve the spicy gochujang shrimp hot, over cooked basmati rice or your choice of noodles. Garnish generously with chopped green onions for freshness and color.
Notes
- Use peeled and deveined shrimp to reduce prep time.
- Adjust the amount of gochujang depending on your spice preference.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
- Low-sodium soy sauce helps control overall saltiness in the dish.
- If you prefer, substitute basmati rice with jasmine rice or noodles of your choice.
