Honey-Glazed Shrimp with Garlic Sauce and Mushroom Gravy

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Honey-Glazed Shrimp

Ease of preparation: This honey-glazed shrimp recipe is designed for simplicity, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal steps. With a quick 4-5 minute cook time and a 15-20 minute marinate, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a fast, flavorful meal without any hassle.
Health benefits: Shrimp is a lean source of protein packed with essential nutrients and low in calories. This honey-glazed shrimp dish combines the benefits of omega-3s, antioxidants from honey, and fresh garlic and ginger, creating a heart-healthy, nutrient-rich option that supports overall wellness.
Versatility: Whether you’re following a gluten-free, soy-free, low-calorie, or even a plant-based diet, this honey-glazed shrimp recipe can be easily adapted. Use tamari for gluten-free needs or coconut aminos for soy alternatives, and swap shrimp with tofu or chicken for diverse variations.
Distinctive flavor: The perfect harmony of sweet honey, savory soy, and zesty ginger and garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the natural sweetness of shrimp. The delicate balance between sweet and savory flavors makes this dish a standout that’s sure to impress.

Essential Ingredients for Honey-Glazed Shrimp

1 pound (450 g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined – the juicy, protein-packed star of the dish.
⅓ cup honey – provides natural sweetness and forms a glossy, flavorful glaze.
¼ cup tamari soy sauce (gluten-free); coconut aminos can be used as soy-free alternative – adds umami and depth of flavor.
1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for marinade/sauce variation) – enriches the glaze.
4 garlic cloves, minced – imparts aromatic warmth and taste complexity.
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger or 1 tablespoon ginger paste – adds subtle spice and freshness.
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – introduces a mild kick of heat.
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for coating shrimp) – helps tenderize shrimp by velveting.
1 tablespoon oil or vegetable oil – used for cooking and preventing sticking.
1 tablespoon finely chopped cilantro or parsley (optional) – freshens and brightens the dish.
1 to 2 green onions, thinly sliced for garnish – adds texture and color.

Special Dietary Options:

Vegan: Substitute shrimp with marinated tofu or tempeh and use coconut aminos for soy-free needs.
Gluten-free: Use tamari soy sauce and verify all condiments are gluten-free certified.
Low-calorie: Use less honey or a sugar-free alternative, and cook shrimp with minimal oil to reduce calories.

How to Prepare the Perfect Honey-Glazed Shrimp: Step-by-Step Guide

First Step: Prepare Ingredients and Marinade

Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Mince garlic and grate fresh ginger. In a small bowl, combine honey, tamari soy sauce (or coconut aminos), minced garlic, grated ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to create the honey glaze. Set aside one-third of the sauce for glazing later and use the rest to marinate the shrimp for 15-20 minutes.

Second Step: Optional Shrimp Coating

If desired, mix soy sauce and cornstarch in a small bowl. Toss shrimp in this cornstarch mixture to coat evenly. This process helps velvet the shrimp, keeping them tender and juicy during cooking. Pat shrimp dry slightly before coating if needed to reduce excess moisture.

Third Step: Cooking Shrimp

Heat oil in a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer, discarding leftover marinade if marinated. Cook shrimp for 1-2 minutes on each side until pink and just cooked through. Avoid overcooking to prevent rubbery texture. Adjust cooking time if shrimp are very large or small.

Fourth Step: Glazing Shrimp

Pour the remaining honey glaze into the pan. Bring it to a simmer and toss the shrimp continuously as the sauce thickens and coats each piece evenly, about 1 minute. This step enriches the shrimp with vibrant flavor and shine.

Final Step: Garnishing and Serving

Turn off the heat, stir in finely chopped cilantro or parsley if using, and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve immediately over steamed white rice, cauliflower rice, in lettuce wraps, or as a topping for noodles. This dish is perfect for quick meals and can be paired with a simple vegetable stir-fry.

Tip: Pat shrimp dry before coating or marinating to promote better glaze adherence and cooking texture.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Honey-Glazed Shrimp

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

For a plant-based version, replace shrimp with firm tofu or tempeh marinated in the honey glaze for a similar sweet-savory experience.
Chicken breast or scallops can be used as alternative proteins, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Add steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers alongside the shrimp for an easy complete meal.
Swap tamari soy sauce with coconut aminos to accommodate soy-free or gluten-free diets.
Introduce spices such as chili flakes or fresh herbs like basil and mint to complement and vary the flavor profile.
Use lemon or lime zest for a citrusy brightness to balance the sweet glaze.

Mastering Honey-Glazed Shrimp: Advanced Tips and Variations

Pro cooking techniques: Marinate shrimp for 15-30 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate without over-soaking. Use a well-heated non-stick skillet for perfect searing and easy cleanup.
Flavor variations: Add spices like smoked paprika or five-spice powder for complexity. Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for alternative sweetness notes.
Presentation tips: Serve honey-glazed shrimp over jasmine rice, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an attractive finish.
Make-ahead options: Prepare the honey glaze ahead and store it separately. Cook shrimp fresh or reheat gently in a skillet to preserve texture and flavor.

How to Store Honey-Glazed Shrimp: Best Practices

Storage Method	Guidelines	Tips
Refrigeration	Store cooked honey-glazed shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.	Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve moisture and avoid overcooking.
Freezing	Freeze shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.	Flash-freezing shrimp individually before storing helps prevent sticking.
Meal prep	Keep the honey glaze separate from shrimp during storage to maintain texture. Portion into single servings for easy reheating.	Add freshly steamed vegetables during reheating for a complete meal.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Honey-Glazed Shrimp

What ingredients give honey-glazed shrimp its distinct flavor?

Honey-glazed shrimp gets its sweet and savory flavor from a sauce made primarily of honey, garlic, and soy sauce or coconut aminos. Additional ingredients like fresh ginger and crushed red pepper flakes add warmth and a mild spicy kick. This combination creates a sticky, well-balanced glaze that complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

How should I marinate shrimp for a honey-glazed shrimp recipe?

To marinate shrimp for honey-glazed shrimp, toss raw shrimp with about one-third of the honey garlic sauce and let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes. This timing allows the shrimp to absorb the flavors without becoming mushy, ensuring a tender texture after cooking.

How long do I cook shrimp to avoid overcooking when making honey-glazed shrimp?

Cook shrimp over medium-high heat for 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just opaque. Shrimp cook very quickly, so watch closely to prevent overcooking, which can make them tough and rubbery.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp in a honey-glazed shrimp recipe?

Using raw shrimp is best for this recipe because pre-cooked shrimp can easily become rubbery and lose their texture when reheated in the sauce. Starting with raw shrimp ensures the glaze fully coats the shrimp while cooking them to the perfect tenderness.

How should I store and reheat leftover honey-glazed shrimp?

Store leftover honey-glazed shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. To reheat, warm the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave for about one minute. Avoid overheating, as this can cause the shrimp to dry out and become rubbery.

Honey-Glazed Shrimp with Garlic Sauce and Savory Mushroom Gravy Recipe