Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is an iconic dish inspired by the food trucks on the North Shore of Oahu. Known for its bold flavors, tender shrimp, and buttery garlic sauce, this dish is a staple for both tourists and locals who crave a taste of Hawaii. The recipe balances the sweet and briny flavor of shrimp with rich garlic butter and a hint of spice, all served over a bed of warm white rice. The simplicity of this dish combined with its mouthwatering flavor makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or a tropical-themed gathering.

This recipe takes you straight to Hawaii’s sunny shores with every bite, delivering the essence of the islands in a single plate. Whether you’ve experienced Hawaiian food trucks firsthand or are looking to try something new, this homemade version of garlic shrimp is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic flavor: This recipe replicates the famous garlic shrimp served in Hawaii, giving you an authentic taste of the islands.
• Quick and easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
• Minimal ingredients: Made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, this dish is both affordable and convenient.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap sides, or tweak the garlic to suit your preferences.
• Crowd-pleaser: It’s a versatile dish that works for casual family meals, dinner parties, or potlucks.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving size: About 6-8 shrimp and 1/2 cup of rice

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 19g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound of large shrimp, deveined, shells on or off (tail-on optional)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 10 cloves of garlic, finely minced (or about 3 tablespoons)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
• 1 tablespoon parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

For Serving:

• 4 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati works best)
• Lemon wedges (for garnish)
• Chili flakes (optional, for heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the shrimp:

If your shrimp aren’t prepped, start by peeling and deveining them. Keep the tail on for a classic presentation, or remove it if you prefer. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

2. Coat the shrimp:

In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss the shrimp in the mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.

3. Cook the shrimp:

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Sear the shrimp for 2 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

4. Make the garlic butter sauce:

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden (but not browned). Stir frequently to prevent burning.

5. Add the shrimp to the sauce:

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss them in the garlic butter sauce to coat evenly. Drizzle the lemon juice and soy sauce over the shrimp, stirring for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the shrimp.

6. Serve:

Serve the garlic shrimp hot over a bed of steamed white rice. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro and a wedge of lemon for a fresh, zesty finish. If you like heat, sprinkle chili flakes on top.

Ingredient Background

• Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used, but large, high-quality shrimp yield the best flavor and texture. Keeping the shells on while cooking adds more flavor, but peeled shrimp are more convenient to eat.
• Flour and cornstarch: The combination creates a light, crispy coating that helps the sauce cling to the shrimp.
• Garlic: The star of the dish, garlic adds bold, aromatic flavor. Fresh garlic is key for achieving the best results.
• Butter and olive oil: A blend of butter and olive oil prevents the butter from burning while delivering richness.
• Lemon juice: The acidity brightens the dish, balancing the richness of the butter.
• Rice: Steamed white rice is a traditional pairing, but coconut rice or garlic fried rice also complement the shrimp beautifully.

Technique Tips

• Pat shrimp dry: Removing excess moisture ensures the coating adheres properly and the shrimp cook evenly without steaming.
• Control the heat: Garlic burns quickly, so keep the heat at medium when making the sauce.
• Toss the shrimp gently: Overcooking shrimp can make them rubbery, so only toss them in the sauce for a minute or two.
• Use fresh garlic: Pre-minced garlic in jars can lack flavor and texture compared to freshly minced cloves.
• Deglaze the pan: Scrape up any browned bits in the skillet when making the sauce for added flavor.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Lettuce wraps: Serve the garlic shrimp in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
• Noodle bowls: Toss the shrimp and sauce with cooked noodles for a variation of garlic shrimp pasta.
• Garlic shrimp tacos: Use the shrimp as a filling for tacos with slaw and a drizzle of sriracha mayo.
• Seafood platter: Pair the shrimp with other seafood like grilled fish, scallops, or lobster for a luxurious spread.

Additional Tips for Success

• Defrost shrimp properly: If using frozen shrimp, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for a few minutes.
• Double the sauce: If you love extra sauce for your rice, double the butter and garlic quantities.
• Fresh lemon juice: Bottled lemon juice won’t provide the same vibrant flavor as fresh.
• Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sauce if you like extra heat.

Recipe Variations

• Hawaiian Coconut Garlic Shrimp: Add 1/4 cup of coconut milk to the garlic butter sauce for a creamy, tropical twist.
• Garlic Herb Shrimp: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for a herbaceous flavor.
• Pineapple Garlic Shrimp: Toss in chunks of pineapple for a sweet and tangy variation.
• Spicy Garlic Shrimp: Incorporate sriracha or a dash of hot sauce into the butter sauce for a fiery kick.
• Vegetarian option: Swap shrimp with firm tofu or king oyster mushrooms for a plant-based take on the dish.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain the texture.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked garlic shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating tips: Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp. A quick sauté in a skillet is the best option.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use olive oil: Replace some of the butter with olive oil for a lighter version.
• Skip the coating: Omit the flour and cornstarch for a simpler, lower-calorie dish.
• Serve with quinoa: Swap white rice for protein-rich quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Add greens: Serve the shrimp over a bed of steamed spinach or sautéed kale for added nutrients.
• Reduce sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce or skip it entirely.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Beach parties: Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in large platters with pineapple slices and coconut rice for a tropical-themed party.
• Weeknight dinners: Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Potluck favorite: Prepare a large batch and serve it buffet-style with rice, noodles, or crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.
• Date night: Serve with a side of garlic butter asparagus and a chilled glass of white wine for an elegant yet easy dinner.

Special Equipment

• Large skillet or wok: For even cooking and proper searing of the shrimp.
• Garlic press: Speeds up the process of mincing large amounts of garlic.
• Lemon squeezer: Ensures you get every drop of juice from your lemons.
• Rice cooker: Makes perfectly cooked rice to complement the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
While fresh or raw shrimp yield the best flavor and texture, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. Add them to the sauce at the end and toss just until heated through to avoid overcooking.

2. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Cook the garlic over medium heat and stir frequently. If it starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat and add a splash of water or broth.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter with vegan butter or additional olive oil.

4. Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level is mild, but you can omit the cayenne pepper or chili flakes if you prefer a non-spicy version.

5. Can I use frozen shrimp without thawing?
It’s best to thaw the shrimp before cooking for even seasoning and texture.

6. What type of rice pairs best with this dish?
Steamed jasmine rice is traditional, but coconut rice or fried rice also complement the garlic shrimp beautifully.

7. Can I add other seafood?
Absolutely! Scallops, clams, or mussels make great additions to this dish.

8. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for the coating, and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free (tamari works well).

Conclusion

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp brings the tropical flavors of the islands straight to your plate. With its buttery garlic sauce, perfectly cooked shrimp, and simple preparation, it’s no wonder this dish is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re recreating the magic of Hawaiian food trucks or looking for a quick yet indulgent dinner idea, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Serve it with rice, garnish it with lemon, and enjoy the irresistible flavors of paradise right at home.

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