If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that packs a flavorful punch, look no further than Easy Hoisin Shrimp. This dish is not only simple to prepare, but it also combines the savory richness of hoisin sauce with succulent shrimp, creating a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress without taking up too much of your time.

Why It’s My Go-To

Easy Hoisin Shrimp has become my go-to recipe for several reasons. First and foremost, it takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. You can have a restaurant-quality dish on the table in no time! The combination of flavors is incredibly satisfying, with the sweet and tangy hoisin sauce complementing the shrimp beautifully. Plus, it’s versatile; serve it over rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps for a fresh twist. It’s a meal that brings everyone together, and the best part? It’s so easy to make!

Ingredient Rundown

To create this delicious dish, you’ll need just a few key ingredients:

1 tablespoon oil: A neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil works well for sautéing the shrimp.
1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp both work, but make sure they are thawed if using frozen.
½ cup hoisin sauce: This sweet and savory sauce is the star of the dish, adding depth and character.
1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce: To enhance the umami flavor without making the dish too salty.
Green onions for garnish: Freshly chopped green onions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
Sesame seeds for garnish: Toasted sesame seeds add crunch and a nutty flavor to finish the dish.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before you start cooking, gather the following equipment:

Large skillet or wok: Ideal for quickly cooking the shrimp and evenly distributing the sauce.
Spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring and ensuring the shrimp cook evenly.
Measuring cups and spoons: To accurately measure out your sauces and oil.
Chopping board and knife: For preparing your garnishes like green onions.

Cook Easy Hoisin Shrimp Like This

Now, let’s dive into the cooking process step-by-step.

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot, but not smoking.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery if left too long.

Step 3: Add the Sauces

Once the shrimp are cooked, reduce the heat to medium. Pour in ½ cup of hoisin sauce and 1 tablespoon of low sodium soy sauce. Stir to coat the shrimp evenly in the sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps for a delightful meal.

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, consider these swaps:

Protein swap: Use tofu or chicken instead of shrimp for a different protein option.
Sauce alternatives: If you’re avoiding soy, try coconut aminos instead of low sodium soy sauce.
Gluten-free option: Ensure the hoisin sauce and soy sauce are labeled gluten-free.
Vegetable addition: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition and color.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

While Easy Hoisin Shrimp is straightforward, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Overcooking the shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp as they cook; they should only take a few minutes. If they become rubbery, they may be overdone. Try reducing the cooking time next time.
Too salty: If you find the dish too salty, try using less soy sauce or a low-sodium version of hoisin sauce.
Thick sauce: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out while cooking.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so delicious!), here’s how to store them:

Storing: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the shrimp in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the sauce.

Ask & Learn

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure that you thaw the shrimp completely before cooking for the best results.

What can I serve with Easy Hoisin Shrimp?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad. You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a light and refreshing meal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook them just before serving to ensure they remain tender and flavorful.

Is hoisin sauce spicy?

No, hoisin sauce is not spicy. It has a sweet and savory flavor profile, making it very approachable for all palates.

If you enjoyed Easy Hoisin Shrimp, here are more recipes you’ll love:

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have the recipe for Easy Hoisin Shrimp, it’s time to get cooking! This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings a lovely touch of Asian-inspired flavor to your dinner table. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, it’s bound to be a hit. Happy cooking!