This Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp is a zesty dish bursting with flavor! Juicy shrimp is cooked with garlic, a hint of chili, and a splash of sweet orange juice for the perfect blend.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: You can use medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined for convenience. If you’re looking for a substitute, try chicken or tofu for a different protein option!
Olive Oil: This is a great choice for stir-frying, but you could also use vegetable oil or sesame oil for a nuttier flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for this dish. If you’re out, use garlic powder as a backup, but fresh is always more vibrant!
Red Chili Pepper: If you like it spicy, fresh chili is your go-to! Crushed red pepper flakes work in a pinch too, adjusting based on your spice preference.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice enhances flavor, but if you only have bottled juice, that’s okay! Just be sure to choose an unsweetened variety for the best results.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both add sweetness to balance the flavors. Maple syrup is a useful substitute if you want to avoid processed sugars.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it just right! Always start with a hot pan and watch the timing closely.
- Heat oil until shimmering but not smoking.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on one side until they start turning pink before flipping.
- The shrimp are done when they are opaque throughout and firm to the touch, usually just 4-5 minutes total.
Remember, overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep an eye on them!
Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red chili pepper, thinly sliced (or 1 tsp crushed red chili flakes for spice)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
- Orange slices (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10-15 minutes for prep and cooking. This quick stir-fry makes it a perfect weeknight meal or a delightful dish for special occasions!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper to add flavor.
2. Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking.
3. Sauté Garlic and Chili
Add the minced garlic and the sliced chili pepper to the hot oil. Sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly until everything is fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink. This is when they begin to get that lovely color!
5. Add the Bell Pepper
Flip the shrimp over and add the sliced red bell pepper at this stage. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the shrimp are fully opaque and cooked through, and the peppers are tender but still crisp.
6. Mix the Sauce
While the shrimp is cooking, in a small bowl, combine the freshly squeezed orange juice, soy sauce, and honey (or brown sugar). Stir until well mixed!
7. Combine Everything
Pour the orange chili sauce over the cooked shrimp and vegetables. Give everything a good stir to coat and let it simmer for another 1-2 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and mingles with the flavors.
8. Adjust Seasoning
Give it a taste! If you’d like more seasoning, feel free to add a bit more salt, pepper, or soy sauce according to your preference.
9. Serve with Rice
Spoon the shrimp and sauce mixture over a bed of steamed white rice, making it the perfect base to soak up all that delicious sauce.
10. Garnish and Enjoy!
Top with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds (if using). Add fresh orange slices on the side for a bright, citrusy garnish. Enjoy your vibrant Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Orange Juice?
No worries! You can use bottled orange juice, but ensure it’s 100% juice without added sugars for the best flavor. If you want a more intense flavor, consider adding a little bit of orange zest too!
How to Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the amount of red chili pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. For more spice, add extra chili or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce mixture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist. Enjoy it again over rice or noodles!
