If you’re looking for a quick and delicious seafood dish, this Shrimp with Garlic Butter recipe is just what you need. The shrimp are marinated with a blend of spices and then pan-fried to golden perfection in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- Shrimp: 1 pound
- Fresh shrimp are ideal for this recipe, but frozen shrimp that have been thawed will also work well.
- Green onion: 2 stalks, chopped
- Adds a mild onion flavor that complements the garlic and shrimp.
- Ginger: 1 inch, sliced
- Provides a fresh, slightly spicy flavor that enhances the overall dish.
- Cooking wine: 1 tablespoon
- Helps to tenderize the shrimp and adds a depth of flavor.
- Chili powder: 1 tablespoon
- Adds a bit of heat and depth to the marinade.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Enhances the natural flavors of the shrimp and other ingredients.
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Adds a subtle spice that pairs well with the chili powder.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Creates a rich base for the garlic sauce, making the shrimp tender and flavorful.
- Minced garlic: 4 cloves
- The star of the sauce, garlic adds a bold, savory flavor.
- Dried chili: 2, chopped
- Adds heat to the dish; adjust according to your spice preference.
- Sugar: ½ teaspoon
- Balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness.
Directions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
Start by preparing the shrimp. Open the back and devein them if necessary. In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with chopped green onion, sliced ginger, cooking wine, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together to coat the shrimp evenly. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 20 minutes, letting the flavors penetrate the meat.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a large pan over medium heat and add the butter. Once the butter has melted and starts to sizzle, add the marinated shrimp to the pan. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and opaque.
3. Add Flavor:
Once the shrimp are nearly cooked, add the minced garlic, chopped dried chili, and sugar to the pan. Stir-fry everything together, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and the shrimp to fully absorb the flavors of the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, making sure the shrimp are cooked through but still tender.
4. Serve:
Remove the pan from heat and transfer the shrimp to a serving dish. This shrimp dish is best served hot, paired with steamed rice or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4
Tips for the Perfect Shrimp with Garlic Butter:
- Lemon Finish: For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the shrimp just before serving. The acidity will brighten up the dish and balance the richness of the butter.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of dried chili and chili powder to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili or omit it altogether.
Conclusion:
This Shrimp with Garlic Butter recipe is a wonderful combination of flavors that’s sure to impress. The tender shrimp, coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, are complemented by the subtle heat from the chili and the freshness of the ginger and green onions. It’s a dish that’s simple to prepare but delivers restaurant-quality results. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.