Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp Tom Rim Recipe & Video
If you’re craving something sweet, savory, and totally delicious, you’ve got to try this Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp recipe. The combination of honey, coconut water, and fish sauce creates a honey caramel sauce that’s absolutely mouthwatering. Whether you’re pairing it with rice or garlic noodles, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. Let’s dive right into how to make this easy and tasty Caramelized Shrimp!
Why Caramelized Shrimp?
Caramelized Shrimp is a quick and easy dish that packs a punch in the flavor department. Traditionally, in Vietnam, this dish is made with sugar, but I decided to give it a twist by using honey instead. Doesn’t “Honey Caramel” sound so much better? 🍯🧡 The sweetness of the honey perfectly balances with the umami-rich fish sauce, creating a sauce that’s perfect for mixing into steaming hot rice or tossing with garlic noodles.
Health Benefits of Shrimp and Honey
Before we dive into the cooking, let’s talk about why this Caramelized Shrimp is not just tasty but also good for you. Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein seafood that’s rich in essential nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are great for your heart, brain, and overall well-being. Plus, shrimp is low in fat, making it a fantastic option if you’re looking to eat something light yet satisfying.
Honey, on the other hand, is a natural sweetener that’s packed with antioxidants. It can help boost your immune system, soothe your throat, and even improve your skin. By using honey instead of sugar in this recipe, you’re adding a touch of natural sweetness that’s not only delicious but also a bit healthier. It’s a win-win!
How to Make Caramelized Shrimp
Now that you know why this dish is amazing, let’s get cooking! Here’s what you’ll need to make Caramelized Shrimp!
Ingredients You Will Need…
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup coconut water
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp cooking oil (I used avocado oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 green onions, white part chopped & green part cut into 2” pieces, divided
- 1 lb shrimp (shell-on or peeled), I used U15
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 Thai chili, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Caramelize the Honey:
In a small saucepan, heat the honey over medium-high heat. Allow it to boil until it turns a rich amber color, about 5 minutes.
Carefully add the coconut water and fish sauce, stirring well. Reduce the heat to medium to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the cooking oil, chopped garlic, and the white parts of the green onions. Stir-fry until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the Shrimp:
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp. Stir-fry the shrimp in the aromatic oil for about 1 minute, then pour in the prepared honey caramel sauce.
Finish Cooking:
Cook the shrimp, coating them evenly with the sauce, until fully cooked. Stir frequently. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the shrimp and whether they are shell-on or peeled. I used U15 shell-on shrimp, and it took about 4 minutes.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from heat, then stir in the black pepper, Thai chili, and the green parts of the green onions. Serve with warm cooked rice or garlic noodles. Enjoy!
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There You Have It!
This Caramelized Shrimp recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s bursting with flavor. Plus, with the added health benefits of shrimp and honey, you can feel good about enjoying every bite. If you want to see how it’s done step-by-step, check out the video below!
Thanks for reading, and I hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious Caramelized Shrimp. Don’t forget to like, comment, and 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for more yummy recipes!
Caramelized Shrimp
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Traditionally, in Vietnam, this dish is made with sugar, but I decided to give it a twist by using honey instead. Doesn’t “Honey Caramel” sound so much better? 🍯🧡 The sweetness of the honey perfectly balances with the umami-rich fish sauce, creating a sauce that’s perfect for mixing into steaming hot rice or tossing with garlic noodles.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup coconut water
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp cooking oil (I used avocado oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 green onions, white part chopped & green part cut into 2” pieces, divided
- 1 lb shrimp (shell-on or peeled), I used U15
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 Thai chili, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Honey:
In a small saucepan, heat the honey over medium-high heat. Allow it to boil until it turns a rich amber color, about 5 minutes. Carefully add the coconut water and fish sauce, stirring well. Reduce the heat to medium to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside. - Cook the Aromatics:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the cooking oil, chopped garlic, and the white parts of the green onions. Stir-fry until fragrant, about 1 minute. - Add the Shrimp:
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp. Stir-fry the shrimp in the aromatic oil for about 1 minute, then pour in the prepared honey caramel sauce. - Finish Cooking:
Cook the shrimp, coating them evenly with the sauce, until fully cooked. Stir frequently. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the shrimp and whether they are shell-on or peeled. I used U15 shell-on shrimp, it took about 4 minutes. - Garnish and Serve:
Remove from heat, then stir in the black pepper, Thai chili, and the green parts of the green onions. Serve with warm cooked rice or garlic noodles. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
