Name: Gochujang-Honey Glazed Shrimp Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 16 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: For Gochujang-Honey Glaze:; 1 tbsp gochujang; 2 tsp honey; 2 tsp mirin; 2 tsp soy sauce; ½ tsp sesame oil; 1 small garlic clove; ½ tsp fresh ginger; For Shrimp:; 1 lb jumbo shrimp; ¼ tsp kosher salt; Cooking spray; 2 tbsp Scallions; 1 tsp Sesame seeds

These gochujang-honey glazed shrimp skewers are an exquisite balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, perfect for grilling season. The glaze creates a mouthwatering caramelized coat on the shrimp, making each bite an explosion of taste. Simple yet sophisticated, this recipe will elevate your backyard BBQ or dinner party to a whole new level.

Photos of Gochujang-Honey Glazed Shrimp Skewers Recipe

Some of the ingredients in this recipe may not be staples in every kitchen. Gochujang is a Korean chili paste that adds a unique spicy element. Mirin is a Japanese sweet rice wine that brings a subtle sweetness. Both can be found in the international aisle of most supermarkets or at specialty Asian markets. Make sure to check these sections when shopping.

Ingredients for Gochujang-Honey Glazed Shrimp Skewers

Gochujang: A Korean chili paste that adds a spicy kick and depth of flavor

Honey: A natural sweetener that balances the heat and adds caramelization

Mirin: A sweet Japanese rice wine that enhances the glaze with a mild sweetness

Soy sauce: Adds umami and saltiness to the glaze

Sesame oil: Provides a nutty aroma and richness

Garlic clove: Adds a pungent and aromatic flavor

Fresh ginger: Lends a zesty and slightly spicy note

Jumbo shrimp: The main protein, tender and succulent when grilled

Kosher salt: Seasons the shrimp

Cooking spray: Prevents the shrimp from sticking to the grill

Scallions: Adds a fresh, oniony garnish

Sesame seeds: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty taste

One reader, Burch Warner says:

These gochujang-honey glazed shrimp skewers are a flavor explosion! The perfect balance of sweet and spicy, with a delightful hint of garlic and ginger. Grilling them brings out a smoky depth that’s irresistible. A must-try for any shrimp lover!

Burch Warner

Techniques Required for Making Gochujang-Honey Glazed Shrimp Skewers

How to combine ingredients: Mix the gochujang, honey, mirin, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a small bowl until well blended.

How to season shrimp: Sprinkle kosher salt evenly over the shrimp to enhance flavor.

How to skewer shrimp: Use doubled skewers to thread the shrimp, ensuring they are secure and evenly spaced for grilling.

How to heat and oil a grill: Preheat the grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

How to grill shrimp: Place the skewered shrimp on the hot grill, cook for 4 minutes on one side, then turn and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

How to brush glaze on shrimp: Use a brush to apply the gochujang-honey glaze to the shrimp, ensuring even coverage on both sides.

How to check shrimp doneness: Ensure the shrimp are opaque and cooked through, indicating they are ready to be removed from the grill.

How to garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped scallions over the cooked shrimp for added flavor and presentation.

How To Make Gochujang-Honey Glazed Shrimp Skewers

These Korean-inspired shrimp skewers are delicious and easy to make! Enjoy a bite of shrimp slathered with a sweet and spicy gochujang-honey glaze.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 6 minutes

Total: 16 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Gochujang-Honey Glaze:

1tbspgochujang
2tsphoney
2tspmirin
2tspsoy sauce
½tspsesame oil,toasted
1small garlic clove,minced
½tspfresh ginger

For Shrimp:

1lbjumbo shrimp,(weight after peeling), peeled, deveined
¼tspkosher salt
cooking spray
2tbspscallions,sliced thin on an angle
1tspsesame seeds

Equipments

8 long wooden skewers

Instructions

Combine the glaze ingredients together in a small bowl.
Season the shrimp with salt, then place on doubled skewers to make 4.
Heat a clean, lightly oiled grill to medium heat. When the grill is hot, add the shrimp. Be careful not to burn the skewers.
Grill for 4 minutes on one side, then turn and cook for 2 minutes.
Brush the glaze on the shrimp, turn, and brush on the remaining side. Cook for an additional 1 minute or until the shrimp is opaque and cooked through.
Transfer to a platter, brush with any remaining glaze, and top with sesame seeds and scallions. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

If using bamboo skewers, be sure to soak them for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning.
Doubling up on the skewers helps keep the shrimp in place when grilling.

Nutrition

Calories: 129.91kcal
Fat: 3.77g
Saturated Fat: 0.57g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.52g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.28g
Carbohydrates: 6.33g
Fiber: 0.44g
Sugar: 3.26g
Protein: 16.41g
Cholesterol: 142.88mg
Sodium: 949.52mg
Calcium: 75.42mg
Potassium: 166.22mg
Iron: 0.57mg
Vitamin A: 62.91µg
Vitamin C: 0.77mg

Helpful Technique for Preparing Gochujang-Honey Glazed Shrimp Skewers

When grilling shrimp, using doubled skewers helps prevent them from spinning around, ensuring even cooking and easier handling. Additionally, to avoid burning the skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the shrimp.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Shrimp Skewers

Prepare the glaze ahead: Mix the gochujang, honey, mirin, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in advance and store in the fridge.

Pre-skewer the shrimp: Skewer the shrimp and season with salt the night before to save time on grilling day.

Use pre-minced garlic and ginger: Opt for pre-minced garlic and ginger to cut down on prep time.

Preheat the grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium heat before you start cooking to avoid delays.

Chop garnishes in advance: Slice the scallions and toast the sesame seeds ahead of time for quick assembly.

Substitute Ingredients For Gochujang-Honey Glazed Shrimp Skewers Recipe

gochujang - Substitute with sriracha mixed with miso paste: Sriracha provides the heat while miso paste adds the umami depth similar to gochujang.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness and viscosity to honey.
mirin - Substitute with dry sherry: Dry sherry provides a similar sweetness and acidity to mirin.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that offers a similar salty and umami flavor.
sesame oil - Substitute with olive oil with a few drops of toasted sesame seeds: Olive oil provides the necessary fat, while toasted sesame seeds add the nutty flavor.
garlic clove - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar garlic flavor, though it is less pungent.
fresh ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can provide a similar spicy and warm flavor, though it is less fresh.
jumbo shrimp - Substitute with large prawns: Large prawns have a similar texture and flavor to jumbo shrimp.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt provides a similar salty flavor and texture.
cooking spray - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be brushed on to provide a non-stick surface and add flavor.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.
sesame seeds - Substitute with poppy seeds: Poppy seeds provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor.

Best Ways to Present Gochujang-Honey Glazed Shrimp Skewers

Use elegant skewers: Opt for sleek, stainless steel skewers instead of wooden ones to add a touch of sophistication to the shrimp presentation.
Arrange on a stylish platter: Place the shrimp skewers on a modern, minimalist platter to highlight their vibrant colors and glossy glaze.
Garnish with precision: Finely chop the scallions and sprinkle them delicately over the shrimp, ensuring even distribution for a visually appealing finish.
Add a touch of texture: Lightly toast the sesame seeds before sprinkling them over the shrimp to enhance both flavor and texture.
Create a sauce drizzle: Use a small squeeze bottle to artistically drizzle any remaining gochujang-honey glaze around the shrimp skewers on the platter.
Incorporate fresh elements: Add a few sprigs of fresh cilantro or microgreens around the edges of the platter for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve with a side dip: Provide a small, elegant bowl of extra gochujang-honey glaze on the side for dipping, allowing guests to customize their flavor experience.
Highlight the grill marks: Ensure the shrimp are perfectly grilled with visible grill marks, showcasing the expert cooking technique and adding visual appeal.
Use a contrasting backdrop: Place the platter on a dark, matte tablecloth or surface to make the vibrant colors of the shrimp and garnishes stand out.
Finish with a citrus twist: Add a few thin slices of lime or lemon around the platter to provide a fresh, zesty contrast to the rich glaze.

Essential Tools for Making Shrimp Skewers

Small bowl: Used to combine the glaze ingredients together.
Grill: A clean, lightly oiled grill is essential for cooking the shrimp skewers to perfection.
Cooking spray: Helps to lightly oil the grill to prevent the shrimp from sticking.
Skewers: Used to hold the shrimp together for grilling. Doubling the skewers helps to keep the shrimp stable.
Brush: Used to apply the gochujang-honey glaze onto the shrimp while grilling.
Platter: For transferring the cooked shrimp skewers and serving them.
Knife: To finely chop the garlic clove and fresh ginger.
Measuring spoons: To accurately measure the ingredients for the glaze.
Tongs: Useful for turning the shrimp skewers on the grill.
Cutting board: Provides a surface for chopping the garlic and ginger.
Mixing spoon: To mix the glaze ingredients together in the small bowl.

Storing and Freezing Gochujang-Honey Glazed Shrimp Skewers

Let the shrimp skewers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3 days.
If you want to freeze the shrimp skewers, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Then, transfer the frozen skewers to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.
To reheat the frozen shrimp skewers, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
If you have leftover gochujang-honey glaze, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can use it as a marinade for chicken, pork, or tofu, or as a dipping sauce for vegetables or spring rolls.
To prevent the shrimp from drying out during storage, you can brush them with a little bit of olive oil before refrigerating or freezing them. This will help keep them moist and flavorful.

How To Reheat Leftover Shrimp Skewers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover shrimp skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Brush the skewers with a little bit of olive oil or melted butter to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are heated through and the glaze is sizzling.
For a quick and easy reheat, use your microwave. Place the shrimp skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the shrimp moist during the reheating process. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the shrimp are heated through. Be careful not to overcook them, as this can cause the shrimp to become rubbery.
If you have a grill or grill pan, you can reheat the shrimp skewers over medium-high heat. Brush the skewers with a little bit of oil to prevent sticking and place them on the hot grill. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are heated through and the glaze is caramelized.
For a stovetop reheat, place the shrimp skewers in a skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan to create steam and prevent the shrimp from drying out. Cover the pan with a lid and let the shrimp steam for 2-3 minutes, or until they are heated through.
If you want to enjoy the shrimp cold, simply remove them from the skewers and serve them over a bed of fresh greens or in a salad. The sweet and spicy gochujang-honey glaze will add a delicious flavor to your salad, and the cold shrimp will be refreshing and satisfying.

Interesting Fact About Gochujang-Honey Glazed Shrimp Skewers

A random fact about this recipe is that gochujang is a traditional Korean fermented chili paste that adds a unique depth of flavor and a spicy kick to the glaze.

Is Making Shrimp Skewers at Home Cost-Effective?

The gochujang-honey glazed shrimp skewers recipe is moderately cost-effective. The key ingredients like gochujang, honey, and soy sauce are pantry staples that can be used in multiple dishes, enhancing their value. However, jumbo shrimp can be pricey, especially if not on sale. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $25-$30 USD, considering the need for fresh shrimp and other fresh ingredients like scallions and ginger. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Is This Shrimp Skewer Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The gochujang-honey glazed shrimp skewers recipe is a relatively healthy dish with a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and flavor. Here's why:

Shrimp is a lean protein source, low in calories and high in essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and selenium
The glaze ingredients, such as gochujang, honey, mirin, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger, provide a flavorful combination without relying heavily on unhealthy additives
The recipe uses a small amount of honey, which adds a touch of natural sweetness without excessive sugar content
Scallions and sesame seeds add extra flavor and texture while providing additional nutrients

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:

Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish
Opt for a light cooking spray or brush the grill with a small amount of heart-healthy oil, such as olive oil, to minimize added fats
Serve the shrimp skewers with a side of colorful, nutrient-dense vegetables like grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or a fresh salad to increase the fiber and vitamin content of the meal
Consider using a whole grain alternative for the skewers, such as sturdy rosemary stalks or lemongrass, to add an extra layer of flavor and nutrition
Experiment with different herbs and spices in the glaze, such as cilantro, lime juice, or red pepper flakes, to enhance the taste while providing additional health benefits

Editor's Opinion on This Gochujang-Honey Glazed Shrimp Skewers Recipe

This gochujang-honey glazed shrimp skewer recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet, spicy, and umami flavors. The glaze, combining gochujang, honey, mirin, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger, creates a rich and complex taste profile. Grilling the shrimp enhances their natural sweetness and adds a smoky char. The final touch of sesame seeds and scallions adds texture and freshness. This dish is both visually appealing and delicious, making it perfect for a summer barbecue or an elegant appetizer.

Enhance Your Gochujang-Honey Glazed Shrimp Skewers Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Pineapple Salsa: Imagine the smoky sweetness of grilled pineapple mingling with the zesty kick of jalapeños. This vibrant salsa will dance on your taste buds, offering a refreshing contrast to the savory gochujang-honey glazed shrimp skewers.

Coconut Rice: Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this aromatic coconut rice. The creamy, slightly sweet flavor of coconut milk pairs beautifully with the spicy and savory notes of the shrimp, creating a harmonious balance that will leave you craving more.

Asian Slaw: Crunchy, colorful, and bursting with flavor, this Asian slaw is a delightful medley of cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers. Tossed in a tangy rice vinegar dressing, it adds a refreshing crunch that complements the succulent shrimp perfectly.

Miso Soup: Warm and comforting, a bowl of miso soup is the perfect way to start your meal. The umami-rich miso paste, combined with tofu and seaweed, creates a soothing broth that enhances the flavors of the shrimp skewers.

Mango Sticky Rice: End your meal on a sweet note with this indulgent mango sticky rice. The creamy, coconut-infused sticky rice pairs beautifully with the juicy, ripe mango slices, offering a delightful contrast to the savory shrimp skewers.

Similar Recipes to Gochujang-Honey Glazed Shrimp Skewers

Spicy Garlic Shrimp Skewers: Ignite your taste buds with these fiery shrimp skewers, marinated in a zesty garlic and chili sauce. Perfect for a quick grill session, these skewers are topped with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.

Teriyaki Pineapple Shrimp Skewers: Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with these succulent shrimp skewers, glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. Paired with juicy chunks of pineapple, these skewers are a delightful blend of sweet and savory.

Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp: Savor the simplicity of fresh shrimp marinated in a zesty lemon and herb mixture. Grilled to perfection, these skewers are light, refreshing, and perfect for a summer appetizer.

Coconut Lime Shrimp Skewers: Dive into the tropical flavors of these shrimp skewers, marinated in a creamy coconut milk and tangy lime mixture. Grilled to a golden brown, these skewers are topped with toasted coconut flakes for an added crunch.

Honey Sriracha Shrimp Skewers: Experience the perfect balance of sweet and spicy with these shrimp skewers, coated in a sticky honey and sriracha glaze. Garnished with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, these skewers are a crowd-pleaser.

Recommended Main Courses and Desserts to Serve with Shrimp Skewers

Main Courses:

Korean BBQ Beef Bowls: Korean BBQ Beef Bowls are a delightful fusion of flavors. Start by marinating thinly sliced beef in a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil. Grill the beef to perfection and serve it over a bed of steamed white rice. Top with a colorful array of julienned vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and red cabbage. Drizzle with a spicy gochujang sauce and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and scallions. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with umami goodness.

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken: Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is a refreshing and zesty main course. Marinate chicken breasts in a blend of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a mix of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Grill the chicken until it’s juicy and has a beautiful char. Serve alongside a quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and a light lemon vinaigrette. Garnish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a complete and satisfying meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a chocolate lava cake that oozes rich, molten chocolate with every spoonful. This decadent treat is perfect for those who crave a warm, gooey center enveloped by a tender, cake exterior. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. A sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries add a touch of elegance and a burst of freshness. This dessert is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

Lemon Meringue Tart: Delight your taste buds with a lemon meringue tart that combines a crisp, buttery crust with a tangy lemon curd filling. The tart is topped with a fluffy, golden-brown meringue that adds a light and airy texture. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. Garnish with a few lemon zest curls and a sprig of mint for a refreshing finish. This dessert not only looks stunning but also delivers a burst of citrusy goodness that will leave your guests raving.

Why trust this Gochujang-Honey Glazed Shrimp Skewers Recipe:

This recipe combines the bold flavors of gochujang and honey to create a delicious glaze for shrimp skewers. The balance of sweet and spicy is perfect for grilling, and the addition of mirin and soy sauce enhances the umami. The use of fresh garlic and ginger adds depth to the dish. Trust this recipe for its well-rounded flavors and straightforward instructions, ensuring a delightful meal every time.

Share your thoughts on this delicious Gochujang-Honey Glazed Shrimp Skewers recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How spicy is the gochujang-honey glaze?

The gochujang adds a nice kick, but the honey balances it out. If you're sensitive to spice, you might find it mildly spicy. You can always adjust the amount of gochujang to suit your taste.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and grilling.

What can I use if I don't have a grill?

No grill? No problem! You can use a grill pan on your stovetop or even broil the shrimp in your oven. Just keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked through?

The shrimp are done when they turn opaque and have a nice pink color. They should also curl up slightly. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep an eye on them.

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the glaze a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using it on the shrimp.