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Bourbon Shrimp Recipe


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4.2 from 57 reviews

  • Author: Diane
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This Bourbon Shrimp recipe features succulent shrimp marinated in a flavorful blend of bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic. Quickly cooked in a skillet and finished with a thickened, savory-sweet sauce, this dish is perfect for an impressive yet easy-to-make dinner. Garnished with fresh green onions, it offers a delicious balance of smoky, sweet, and savory tastes.


Ingredients

Shrimp Marinade

  • 1 ½ pounds peeled and deveined shrimp (medium, large, or jumbo)
  • ¼ cup bourbon
  • ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • ¼ cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)

Thickening Slurry

  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon water

Garnish

  • Sliced green onions


Instructions

  1. Combine the marinade ingredients: In a large ziplock bag, add ¼ cup bourbon, ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce, ¼ cup packed brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon minced garlic. Seal the bag and gently mash it to mix all the ingredients well.
  2. Marinate the shrimp: Add 1 ½ pounds of peeled and deveined shrimp into the ziplock bag with the marinade. Seal the bag and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow the shrimp to absorb the flavors.
  3. Preheat the skillet: Heat a large 14-inch skillet over medium-high heat while you prepare the shrimp by removing them from the marinade. Reserve the marinade for later use.
  4. Cook the shrimp: Place the shrimp in the hot skillet and cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
  5. Thicken the sauce: Pour the reserved marinade into the hot skillet and bring it to a boil. While waiting, mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Add this slurry to the boiling marinade, whisking continuously to combine and prevent lumps.
  6. Simmer and coat: Reduce the heat to medium and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens nicely. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat them in the rich bourbon sauce.
  7. Serve: Turn off the heat, garnish the shrimp with sliced green onions, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Marinating the shrimp for at least 30 minutes is essential for maximum flavor absorption.
  • You can use medium, large, or jumbo shrimp based on preference or availability.
  • If bourbon is not available, a good quality whiskey can be a substitute, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
  • Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness in the dish.
  • The sauce thickens quickly once the cornstarch slurry is added, so keep stirring to avoid lumps.
  • For a spicier variation, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Seafood
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American