If you’re craving something that’s bursting with bold flavors and comes together in a flash, Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Shrimp is your new go-to favorite. Juicy shrimp are marinated in a vibrant Korean chili sauce, then seared to perfection until they’re sticky, savory, and just a little fiery. It’s the ideal dish for anyone who loves quick weeknight dinners but still wants something packed with zingy character and beautiful color. Trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish is all about using a handful of powerhouse ingredients that deliver big on taste. Each component adds its own magic, from the distinctive heat of gochujang to the fragrant pop of ginger and garlic.
- Shrimp: Choose large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best juicy texture and quick cooking.
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste): The star of the show—this fermented chili paste brings heat, sweetness, and a deep umami richness that defines the dish.
- Soy sauce: A splash of soy injects savory saltiness and rounds out the marinade beautifully.
- Honey: Just the right hint of sweetness to mellow the spice and create a glossy glaze.
- Rice vinegar: Offers a gentle tang that brightens every bite so your shrimp never feel heavy.
- Sesame oil: Adds subtle nuttiness and aroma that ties all the Asian flavors together.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the shrimp with aromatic depth and spiciness.
- Ginger: Grated ginger brings zingy freshness that’s totally irresistible with shrimp.
- Vegetable oil: Use this for searing; it gives your shrimp a beautiful golden finish.
- Green onions (optional garnish): Sprinkle on top for a pop of color and fresh, crisp bite.
- Sesame seeds (optional garnish): Give the finished dish a lovely subtle crunch and eye-catching finish.
How to Make Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Shrimp
Step 1: Make the Marinade
Start by adding the gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger to a medium bowl. Whisk everything together until it forms a smooth, uniform mixture—this is where all the flavor happens, so make sure it’s well combined and fragrant. The marinade should taste both sweet and spicy, with that wonderful savory depth only gochujang brings.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
Add your shrimp directly into the bowl with the marinade. Toss everything gently to coat every piece with that luscious sauce. Let the shrimp sit and soak up the flavors for 10 to 15 minutes. This short marinating time ensures the shrimp stay tender but still absorb all the magic from the gochujang mixture.
Step 3: Sear the Shrimp
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, lay the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until the shrimp are pink, firm, and a little caramelized on the edges. Be careful not to overcook—they can go from perfect to rubbery in seconds!
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer your cooked shrimp to a serving plate. For that signature Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Shrimp finish, sprinkle over sliced green onions and sesame seeds. These garnishes add color, flavor, and that last bit of textural delight.
How to Serve Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Shrimp
Garnishes
The final touches make all the difference. Scatter plenty of thinly-sliced green onions and a generous pinch of sesame seeds over your Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Shrimp. If you want a little extra kick, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds even more heat and drama.
Side Dishes
This shrimp practically begs to be paired with fluffy steamed rice or bouncy noodles, which help soak up all that amazing sauce. For freshness, add simple steamed veggies like broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving it alongside a quick cucumber salad or kimchi for a full Korean-inspired feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Change up your weeknight with Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Shrimp tacos, piled into soft tortillas with slaw, or toss the shrimp into lettuce cups for a lighter, hands-on appetizer. You can also set them atop a colorful rice bowl with assorted veggies, or thread them onto skewers and serve party-style. However you present them, the wow factor is guaranteed.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Shrimp left over, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The strong flavors hold well, but aim to eat them sooner rather than later for the freshest taste and texture.
Freezing
While shrimp can be frozen after cooking, the texture is always best enjoyed fresh. If you must freeze, cool the cooked shrimp completely and seal in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to one month. Thaw gently in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Shrimp in a skillet over medium-low heat until just hot. Avoid microwaving for too long, as shrimp can get tough—gentle heat is key to keeping them tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating. This helps the marinade stick and ensures the shrimp sear beautifully in the pan.
How spicy is this dish?
Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Shrimp has a gentle, tingly heat complemented by the honey and rice vinegar. If you love more fire, add red pepper flakes or use extra gochujang. If you’re sensitive to spice, decrease the gochujang just a bit for a milder experience.
Can I grill the shrimp instead of pan-frying?
Definitely! The slight char from grilling adds even more smoky depth. Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers and grill over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side. They’re just as succulent, with a touch of outdoor flavor.
Is there a substitute for gochujang?
Nothing else has quite the same flavor, but in a pinch, you can mix a little sriracha with miso paste and a bit of sugar. Still, if you can get your hands on gochujang, it’s worth it for this recipe!
What protein can I use instead of shrimp?
Chicken breast chunks, tofu cubes, or even scallops pair well with the marinade in Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Shrimp. Adjust cooking times as needed, and enjoy experimenting with new flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Shrimp recipe is the kind of dish you’ll want to keep coming back to, whether for a weeknight dinner or to impress friends. The fusion of flavors, speed, and eye-catching appeal make it irresistible. Give it a try—you just might find your new favorite way to enjoy shrimp!
