Bourbon Glazed Shrimp is a tasty dish that features succulent shrimp coated in a sweet and tangy bourbon sauce. It’s quick to make and perfect for a fun dinner!
Whenever I whip up this dish, I can’t help but enjoy the wonderful aroma filling the kitchen. Pair it with rice, and you’ll have a crowd-pleaser on your hands. Yum! 🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for this recipe, but feel free to use medium if that’s what you have! If you’re looking for a plant-based option, try marinated and sautéed tofu or tempeh for a similar texture.
Bourbon Whiskey: This adds a warm depth of flavor. If you want to skip the alcohol, swap in apple cider or a splash of non-alcoholic whiskey for a similar taste.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives the glaze its sweetness and richness. If you’re out, white sugar works too, though the flavor will be a bit lighter. Coconut sugar is another great substitute if you’re looking for something less processed.
Dijon Mustard: It adds a subtle tanginess. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard or even a touch of honey could work well for a different but tasty flavor.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp perfectly is key to this dish. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so it’s important to watch their color closely. Start by heating your skillet to medium-high and pat the shrimp dry to help them sear nicely.
- Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
- Cook the shrimp for 2 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then just 1-2 more minutes on the other side until they’re opaque.
- Remove them from the pan promptly to prevent overcooking.
How to Make Bourbon Glazed Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Bourbon Glaze:
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2-3 green onions, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook this delicious dish. You’ll have perfectly glazed shrimp ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better. Then, season them lightly with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. This gives a delightful flavor!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant. Be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink, then flip them over and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side until they are just opaque. Once done, remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
4. Make the Bourbon Glaze:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Pour in the bourbon and let it simmer for about a minute to cook off some of the alcohol. This will enhance the flavor!
5. Add the Remaining Ingredients:
Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Mix everything well to combine! Let the sauce simmer and thicken slightly for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Combine Shrimp and Sauce:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them to coat thoroughly in the bourbon glaze. Cook everything together for an additional minute just to heat the shrimp through and meld the flavors.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the glazed shrimp onto a serving plate. Garnish with the sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Serve immediately, and enjoy your rich and flavorful Bourbon Glazed Shrimp!
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for quicker thawing. Once thawed, pat them dry and follow the recipe as usual!
How Can I Store Leftover Bourbon Glazed Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
Yes! If you love heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes to your taste or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the bourbon glaze for an extra kick!
What Can I Substitute for Bourbon?
If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with apple cider, vegetable broth, or a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative for similar flavor without the alcohol.