These Bourbon Glazed Shrimp are quick, tasty, and packed with flavor! The sweet and smoky bourbon glaze adds a fun twist to juicy shrimp, making them a perfect dish for any occasion.
Honestly, I can’t resist the smell when they cook! Serve them over rice or in tacos, and watch everyone come back for seconds. 🍤😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this dish, but if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can use smaller shrimp or even chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly since they may need longer.
Bourbon Whiskey: Bourbon gives this dish its distinct flavor. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try non-alcoholic bourbon or apple juice for sweetness, but it won’t have the same depth of flavor.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds sweetness and caramelization. If you’re out, you can substitute with granulated sugar plus a touch of molasses for a similar effect. Honey can work too, but it will alter the flavor a bit.
Dijon Mustard: This ingredient contributes a tangy kick. If you’re not a fan, yellow mustard or even a bit of honey mustard can work well. Adjust to your taste!
Red Pepper Flakes: These add heat, but you can adjust based on your spice preference. For milder flavor, leave them out or use a dash of paprika instead for some color without the heat.
How Can I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it’s simple if you follow a few tips. Shrimp cook fast, so you want to keep an eye on them. Look for their vibrant pink color and curling up to confirm they’re done.
- Start with a hot skillet. This helps the shrimp sear quickly, locking in flavor.
- Cook them for just 1-2 minutes per side. They will continue cooking slightly after being removed from heat, so undercooking them just a bit is okay.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary. This ensures they sear instead of steam.
How to Make Bourbon Glazed Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and roughly 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 20 minutes to have this delicious dish ready to serve! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with a paper towel. This helps them sear better. Then, lightly sprinkle them with salt and black pepper for a touch of flavor.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 1-2 minutes on each side, just until they turn pink and start to curl. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Next, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Add the Bourbon:
Now it’s time to add the bourbon to the skillet—stand back slightly as it might flame! Allow the bourbon to cook down for about 1-2 minutes until it’s reduced by half. This will enhance its flavor.
5. Make the Glaze:
To the reduced bourbon, stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and optional red pepper flakes. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and turns into a glaze.
6. Coat the Shrimp:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss them in the bourbon glaze until they’re evenly coated. Cook for another minute until everything is heated through and well-glazed.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the dish with thinly sliced green onions for a fresh kick. Serve immediately, spooning any extra glaze over the shrimp for a delicious finish!
This dish is rich and flavorful, with a perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes from the bourbon. Enjoy your Bourbon Glazed Shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw shrimp quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for about 20-30 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning and cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Bourbon?
If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with an equal amount of apple cider or a mixture of apple juice and a splash of vinegar for tanginess. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, you can increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze. Alternatively, a dash of hot sauce can be added when combining the ingredients for extra spice.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture.
