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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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