Save Pin
This spicy shrimp bowl delivers bold flavors and quick cooking for a lively weeknight dinner. It combines tender shrimp, fresh vegetables, and a zesty sauce that brings the perfect balance of heat and freshness. Whether you are new to cooking or experienced, this dish is straightforward to prepare and impressive to serve.
I remember the first time I made this dish on a busy weeknight and was surprised how quickly it came together. Now it is a favorite that always impresses guests and family alike.
Ingredients
- One pound large shrimp peeled and deveined: choose medium size for optimal texture and cooking time
- Two tablespoons olive oil: for sautéing and flavor
- Three cloves garlic minced: fresh garlic adds aromatic depth
- One teaspoon red pepper flakes: for gentle heat adjust to your preference
- One tablespoon sriracha hot sauce: provides main spicy kick
- One teaspoon rice vinegar: for balanced tang
- One teaspoon honey or brown sugar: to add subtle sweetness
- Salt and black pepper to taste: enhances all flavors
- Fresh cilantro chopped: garnish adds bright herbal notes
- Optional sliced chili peppers: for extra heat
- Optional crispy fried shallots: for rich texture
- Optional toasted sesame seeds: for nutty aroma
- Optional thinly sliced green onions: for fresh bite
- Base options: such as jasmine rice brown rice quinoa cauliflower rice or rice noodles pick your favorite healthy grain
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat add minced garlic and red pepper flakes cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant and golden but not burnt
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Add shrimp to skillet cook about two to three minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and slightly charred avoid overcooking to keep them tender
- Prepare the Sriracha Sauce:
- In a small bowl whisk together sriracha rice vinegar honey or brown sugar minced garlic and sesame oil until smooth and balanced taste and adjust as needed
- Combine and Season:
- Drizzle sauce over shrimp season with salt and black pepper toss gently to coat shrimp evenly
- Assemble the Bowl:
- Serve shrimp and sauce over your chosen base garnish with cilantro sliced chili peppers fried shallots sesame seeds and green onions as desired
Save Pin
You Must Know
I love how fresh cilantro brightens the dish and makes it feel truly authentic. This recipe reminds me of a summer evening when friends gathered and enjoyed a flavorful meal together.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in airtight containers separating shrimp and sauce from the base and vegetables to keep texture fresh Consume within one to two days for the best flavor and safety Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to avoid overcooking the shrimp
Ingredient Substitutions
If shrimp is unavailable use chicken tofu or tempeh cooked similarly to keep the flavors balanced Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free choice
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a light Asian-style cucumber salad for crunch Add a wedge of lime on the side for an extra burst of citrus Serve alongside steamed bok choy or sautéed greens for more vegetables
Cultural Context
This dish draws inspiration from Thai street food combining simple fresh ingredients with bold flavors Sriracha sauce originated in Thailand and adds a distinctive spicy and slightly sweet heat Balancing spicy sour sweet and salty elements is a hallmark of Southeast Asian cuisine
Save Pin
Pro Tips
Commonly Asked Questions
- → What makes a spicy shrimp bowl unique?
It combines tender shrimp with bold Asian-inspired flavors and fresh veggies, creating a balanced, flavorful, and customizable meal.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, start mild and add sriracha, chili flakes, or hot sauce gradually to reach your preferred heat without overpowering the dish.
- → Are frozen shrimp suitable for this dish?
Frozen shrimp work well if thawed properly and patted dry to ensure a good sear and texture.
- → What are good base options for the bowl?
Jasmine rice, brown rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice, or rice noodles all provide tasty and nutritious foundations.
- → How long does preparation take?
About 15 to 20 minutes with simple steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- → Is this dish gluten-free friendly?
Yes, by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and selecting gluten-free bases and sauces, it can suit gluten-free diets.
- → What protein alternatives work well?
Chicken, tofu, or tempeh can replace shrimp while maintaining the dish’s bold flavors.
- → How to store leftovers properly?
Keep shrimp and sauce separate from the base and veggies in airtight containers; consume within 1-2 days for best quality.