Sweet and Sour Shrimp Recipe
Sweet and sour shrimp is a delightful dish that perfectly balances the savory and tangy flavors we all crave. This recipe transforms succulent shrimp into a vibrant dish bursting with color and flavor, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen.
Why This Sweet and Sour Shrimp Recipe Stands Out
This Sweet and Sour Shrimp Recipe stands out because it combines freshness with a rich, flavorful sauce that’s both tangy and sweet. The use of fresh vegetables, pineapple, and aromatic seasonings elevates the dish, ensuring that each bite is a burst of flavor. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal option even on the busiest days.
What’s in the Bowl
To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) shrimp – peeled and deveined for easy cooking.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch – to coat the shrimp for a crispy texture.
- 1/2 tsp salt – enhances the overall flavor.
- Freshly ground black pepper – adds warmth and depth.
- 1 tsp Asian sesame oil – for a rich, nutty flavor.
- 1/2 cup ketchup – the base of our sweet and sour sauce.
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar – provides the tangy element.
- 3 tbsp honey – sweetens the sauce naturally.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce – adds umami and depth.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch – thickens the sauce.
- 1/4 cup water – to adjust the sauce consistency.
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil – for sautéing.
- 1 red bell pepper – diced for color and sweetness.
- 1 green bell pepper – diced for freshness.
- 1 onion – diced for added flavor.
- 1 cup pineapple chunks – fresh or canned for sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic – minced for aromatic goodness.
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger – fresh or frozen for a zingy kick.
Equipment & Tools
Before diving into the cooking, gather these essential tools:
- Large skillet or wok – ideal for stir-frying the shrimp and vegetables.
- Mixing bowl – for combining the shrimp and cornstarch.
- Measuring cups and spoons – ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring and mixing.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping the vegetables.
Sweet and Sour Shrimp Recipe in Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In another bowl, mix together the ketchup, rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1/4 cup of water. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced red and green bell peppers, and onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Add in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the coated shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and vegetables. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and all ingredients are well coated.
Step 6: Add Pineapple
Finally, add the pineapple chunks to the skillet, gently stirring to incorporate. Allow everything to heat through for about 2 minutes.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the skillet from heat, and serve the sweet and sour shrimp over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy this vibrant dish with your favorite garnish, such as sliced green onions or sesame seeds.
Warm & Cool Weather Spins
This Sweet and Sour Shrimp Recipe is versatile and can be adapted for different seasons:
- Warm Weather: Serve it chilled as a salad over mixed greens, topped with sliced almonds for crunch.
- Cool Weather: Add roasted vegetables like carrots and broccoli for extra nutrition and heartiness.
- Swap the Protein: Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy twist.
Author’s Commentary
This Sweet and Sour Shrimp Recipe has quickly become a family favorite in my household. The combination of the juicy shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and the luscious sauce is simply irresistible. It’s amazing how this dish can be put together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, the vibrant colors and delightful flavors make it an impressive dish to serve guests. I love that you can customize it based on what you have on hand, so feel free to get creative!
Leftovers & Meal Prep
If you happen to have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen, making it even tastier the next day. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
- Meal Prep: This dish can easily be prepped in advance. Cook the shrimp and vegetables, then store them separately from the sauce. Combine them just before serving for the best texture.
- Freezing: You can freeze the sweet and sour shrimp before adding the sauce. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking and adding the sauce.
Quick Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before coating with cornstarch.
What can I serve with sweet and sour shrimp?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve it over quinoa for a healthier option.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It’s great for meal prep. Just store the components separately and combine them when ready to eat.
Make It Tonight
This Sweet and Sour Shrimp Recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a dish that is sure to impress. With its vibrant colors and satisfying flavors, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again. So why wait? Make it tonight and experience the joy of homemade sweet and sour shrimp!
Sweet and Sour Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated.
- In another bowl, mix together the ketchup, rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1/4 cup of water. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced red and green bell peppers, and onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Add in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the coated shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and vegetables. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and all ingredients are well coated.
- Finally, add the pineapple chunks to the skillet, gently stirring to incorporate. Allow everything to heat through for about 2 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat, and serve the sweet and sour shrimp over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy this vibrant dish with your favorite garnish, such as sliced green onions or sesame seeds.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For meal prep, cook shrimp and vegetables separately from the sauce and combine just before serving.
- This dish can be frozen before adding the sauce; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
