Description

This Sweet & Spicy Gochujang Shrimp recipe features tender shrimp cooked to perfection and coated in a vibrant sauce made with Korean gochujang, honey, soy sauce, and a touch of sesame oil. Quick to prepare and packed with bold flavors, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a flavorful appetizer, garnished with sesame seeds, green onions, and fresh lime wedges for a refreshing finish.

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)

Garnish

Sesame seeds
Sliced green onions
Lime wedges

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Instructions

Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, then season lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until combined. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of water if the sauce is too thick to achieve a smooth consistency.
Cook the shrimp: Heat the olive or neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook each side for 1 to 2 minutes until shrimp turn pink and develop a light sear.
Combine shrimp with sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Let it simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, ensuring the shrimp are fully coated with flavor.
Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the shrimp with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Serve immediately while warm for the best taste and texture.

Notes

To make this dish vegan or vegetarian, substitute shrimp with tofu or vegetables and use a plant-based soy sauce.
If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of gochujang or omit the ginger.
Serve with steamed rice or noodles to make a complete meal.
Gochujang can be found in most Asian grocery stores or online.
Adjust the sweetness by substituting honey with maple syrup to suit dietary preferences.