Description
This Sweet & Spicy Gochujang Shrimp recipe delivers a quick and vibrant meal featuring succulent shrimp coated in a flavorful Korean chili paste-based sauce. Combining the spicy kick of gochujang with the sweetness of honey and the tang of rice vinegar, this dish is perfectly balanced and garnished with sesame seeds, green onions, and fresh lime for brightness. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an easy stovetop recipe ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil or neutral oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 2 tbsp gochujang
- 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1–2 tsp water (to thin sauce, if needed)
Garnishes
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly using paper towels to ensure a good sear. Lightly season with salt and pepper for basic seasoning.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, honey (or maple syrup), soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated fresh ginger if using. Add 1–2 teaspoons of water to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and develop a light sear.
- Add and simmer the sauce: Reduce heat to medium, pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp, and toss to coat evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, fully enveloping the shrimp.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the shrimp. Serve immediately with fresh lime wedges for squeezing on top to add brightness.
Notes
- To adjust spice level, modify the amount of gochujang or add a pinch of sugar for extra sweetness.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly alternative.
- If you prefer milder shrimp, reduce the gochujang quantity or omit fresh ginger.
- Serve over steamed rice or with a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
