Sweet Teriyaki Shrimp

Introduction

Sweet Teriyaki Shrimp is a quick, flavorful, and irresistibly saucy dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Tender, juicy shrimp are coated in a glossy homemade teriyaki glaze made with soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and light. This Asian-inspired recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious on the table in under 30 minutes. Serve it with steamed rice, noodles, or veggies for a complete and comforting meal.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, elegant, and absolutely packed with flavor. The shrimp soak up the teriyaki glaze beautifully, making each bite sweet, garlicky, and a little tangy. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works equally well for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that feels indulgent but is still healthy and light.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Sweet Teriyaki Shrimp is a must-try because it proves that restaurant-quality flavor doesn’t need hours in the kitchen. The combination of honey and soy creates a luscious caramelized coating, while fresh garlic and ginger give it depth. It’s quick, versatile, and can be paired with almost anything—from rice bowls to stir-fried vegetables. Once you try it, it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: Approximately 310 kcal per serving

Cuisine and Course

Cuisine: Asian / Japanese-inspired

• Course: Main Course

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 3 tbsp honey (or brown sugar)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for slurry)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Whisk together all teriyaki sauce ingredients in a bowl.
2. Heat oil in a skillet, season shrimp with salt and pepper, and cook until pink.
3. Pour the sauce into the skillet and simmer until it thickens.
4. Toss shrimp to coat evenly in the sauce.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in the prepared sauce and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce becomes thick and glossy, about 1–2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine and Glaze
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss well to coat each piece in the teriyaki glaze.

Step 5: Serve
Transfer to a serving plate, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Sweet Teriyaki Shrimp over a bed of steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a lighter option. It also pairs beautifully with stir-fried vegetables, noodles, or even inside lettuce wraps for a fresh, low-carb meal.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook the shrimp—they only need 3–4 minutes total.
• For extra shine, brush a little glaze on the shrimp right before serving.
• Use fresh garlic and ginger for the most authentic flavor.
• You can double the sauce and store it in the fridge for future meals.

Variations

Spicy Teriyaki Shrimp: Add 1 tsp sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce.

• Pineapple Teriyaki Shrimp: Stir in pineapple chunks for a sweet tropical twist.
• Vegetable Add-In: Mix in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra texture.
• Teriyaki Shrimp Skewers: Thread shrimp onto skewers and grill with the sauce.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked shrimp in sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet.
• Reheating: Warm over low heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp.

Special Equipment Needed

• Non-stick skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons and cups

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Q2: Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the teriyaki sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge.

Q3: What can I use instead of honey?
Brown sugar, maple syrup, or agave syrup work perfectly.

Q4: Can I bake the shrimp instead of pan-frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes, then toss with the sauce.

Conclusion

Sweet Teriyaki Shrimp is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that brings vibrant Asian-inspired flavors to your table in minutes. With its glossy, honey-soy glaze and tender shrimp, it’s the perfect blend of savory and sweet. Whether you’re meal-prepping, cooking for family, or hosting dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Try it once, and it’ll become a go-to favorite for busy weeknights and special occasions alike!