Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. The combination of lemongrass, Sriracha, and fresh shrimp creates a unique taste that is both savory and slightly spicy, making it a standout choice for seafood lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bold Flavors: The aromatic lemongrass combined with Sriracha adds an exciting kick that elevates the shrimp to another level.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy these grilled shrimp as an appetizer, main course, or even in tacos or salads.
• Healthy Option: With only 68 calories per serving, this dish fits well into a healthy diet without sacrificing flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or a casual get-together, these shrimp are sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers
• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Brush for oil
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Perfect for threading shrimp, making it easier to grill evenly.
• Grill: Provides that delicious charred flavor that makes grilled shrimp irresistible.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for marinating the shrimp, allowing all those wonderful flavors to infuse.
• Brush for Oil: Ensures even application of oil on the shrimp for optimal grilling.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb (500g) tiger prawn or jumbo prawn (peeled, deveined, tails intact)
• oil (for brushing)

For the Marinade

• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 lemongrass (white part only, grated)
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha
• 1 big clove garlic (finely minced)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1/2 tablespoon chopped cilantro leaves
• 1 small calamansi (extract the juice (or 1 wedge lime))

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

Step 1: Clean the Shrimp

Start by cleaning the shrimp under cold running water. Pat them dry with paper towels. Once cleaned, transfer the shrimp to a mixing bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In the same bowl as the shrimp:
1. Add all marinade ingredients including fish sauce, grated lemongrass, powdered sugar, Sriracha, minced garlic, chili garlic sauce, water, cilantro leaves, and calamansi juice.
2. Stir well to ensure all ingredients combine evenly with the shrimp.

Step 3: Marinate the Shrimp

Allow the shrimp to marinate for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial for building flavor.

Step 4: Skewer and Brush with Oil

Thread three marinated shrimp onto each skewer. After skewering:
– Brush the surface of each skewer with some oil to prevent sticking while grilling.

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Grill the skewers on both sides until they are charred and cooked through—about 3–4 minutes per side.

Serve immediately with a dipping sauce if desired!

How to Serve Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

Lemongrass and Sriracha grilled shrimp is a flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving this dish with complementary sides or sauces can elevate the meal to new heights.

As a Main Course

• Serve over a bed of jasmine rice for a fragrant pairing.
• Accompany with a fresh salad to balance the heat with cool vegetables.

In Tacos

• Use small corn tortillas to create delicious shrimp tacos.
• Top with slaw and extra cilantro for added crunch and flavor.

With Dipping Sauce

• Pair with spicy mayo or a citrusy dipping sauce for an extra kick.
• Serve alongside a sweet chili sauce for those who prefer milder flavors.

On Skewers

• Present the grilled shrimp on skewers for easy serving at parties.
• Garnish with lime wedges and fresh herbs for an appealing look.

How to Perfect Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

To achieve the best results when making lemongrass and Sriracha grilled shrimp, follow these simple tips that will enhance your cooking process.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemongrass and shrimp will provide unbeatable flavor.
• Marinate Properly: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes to fully absorb the flavors.
• Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the shrimp for an excellent char.
• Avoid Overcooking: Grill until just cooked through; overcooking can make shrimp tough.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust Sriracha levels based on your heat preference.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the shrimp sit briefly after grilling for better texture.

Best Side Dishes for Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with lemongrass and Sriracha grilled shrimp can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice adds a subtle sweetness that balances spiciness.
2. Pickled Vegetables: Crunchy pickled veggies provide acidity that cuts through richness.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus offers a fresh, earthy contrast.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw can provide coolness to counteract the heat from Sriracha.
5. Lemon Garlic Noodles: These flavorful noodles are quick to prepare and pair well with seafood.
6. Mango Salad: A refreshing mango salad adds tropical notes that brighten up the plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring the marinating time: Skipping or shortening the marinating time can lead to bland shrimp. Make sure to marinate for at least 15 minutes for the best flavor.
• Using whole lemongrass stalks: Failing to use only the white part of the lemongrass can result in a tough texture. Be sure to grate just the white portion for a tender, flavorful addition.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long can make them rubbery. Grill them until they are just opaque and slightly charred, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side.
• Not preheating the grill: Grilling on a cold surface can prevent proper charring. Always preheat your grill to ensure even cooking and a nice sear on your shrimp.
• Skipping the oil brush: Neglecting to brush oil on the shrimp before grilling can lead to sticking. A light coat of oil helps achieve that perfect grilled finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled shrimp in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep them away from strong-smelling foods to avoid absorption of odors.

Freezing Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

• Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place shrimp in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil and sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp:

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure they are fully thawed before marinating for even flavor distribution.

What can I substitute for fish sauce?

You can replace fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari if you prefer a non-fish alternative or need it gluten-free.

How spicy is Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp?

The spice level depends on how much Sriracha you add. Feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences!

Can I add other herbs to this recipe?

Yes! You can customize this recipe by adding herbs like mint or basil for additional flavors that complement lemongrass.

Final Thoughts

This Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with exotic flavors that will impress anyone at your table. With options for customization, you can easily adapt this dish to suit your personal tastes or dietary needs. Give it a try, and enjoy a delicious seafood experience that’s both fresh and vibrant!