Carmel Shrimp 🍤 with Green Onions Galore


Ingredients

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 4-5 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp:
    • Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Make the Caramel Sauce:
    • In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let it cook without stirring until it turns a deep amber color (about 5-7 minutes). Watch carefully to avoid burning. Remove from heat.
  3. Cook the Shrimp:
    • In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
  4. Sauté Aromatics:
    • In the same skillet, add the white parts of the green onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Combine and Glaze:
    • Carefully add the caramel sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine. Return the shrimp to the pan, tossing to coat them in the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.
  6. Finish and Serve:
    • Stir in the green parts of the green onions. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Caramel Shrimp over steamed rice or with a side of stir-fried vegetables to complement the flavors.