Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings the fresh, vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia right to your grill. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, quick weeknight dinners, or even festive gatherings. With its unique blend of lemongrass and spicy Sriracha, these shrimp are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of lemongrass and Sriracha creates a unique flavor profile that is both aromatic and spicy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these grilled shrimp as an appetizer, main course, or even in tacos for a fun twist.
• Healthy Choice: Low in calories yet high in protein, this dish fits well into various dietary plans.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and charred look make this dish visually appealing for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather the essential tools to ensure a smooth grilling experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers
• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Perfect for holding the shrimp together, making them easy to grill and serve.
• Grill: Provides the necessary heat for achieving that delicious charred flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining marinade ingredients efficiently before adding the shrimp.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

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

Clean the shrimp under cold running water. Pat them dry with paper towels. Transfer the shrimp to a mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

Add all the marinade ingredients to the bowl:
1. Pour in 2 tablespoons of fish sauce.
2. Add 1 grated lemongrass stalk.
3. Mix in 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar.
4. Stir in 1 teaspoon of Sriracha.
5. Include 1 finely minced garlic clove.
6. Add 1 ½ tablespoons of chili garlic sauce.
7. Finally, mix in 1 tablespoon of water and juice from calamansi or lime wedge.

Stir everything together until well combined with the shrimp. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 3: Skewer the Shrimp

Thread three shrimp onto each skewer. Brush the surface of each skewer with oil to prevent sticking on the grill.

Step 4: Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are charred and fully cooked.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from grill and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce if desired. Enjoy your Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp!

How to Serve Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

Serving Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that enhance its unique flavors.

With Fresh Salad

• Cucumber Mint Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed with fresh mint, lime juice, and a hint of chili for a refreshing side.
• Asian Slaw: A mix of cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers dressed in a tangy sesame vinaigrette complements the shrimp’s zest.

With Dipping Sauce

• Spicy Peanut Sauce: A creamy sauce made from peanut butter, soy sauce, and Sriracha adds richness and heat.
• Chili Garlic Sauce: Serve this on the side for those who love extra spice with their grilled shrimp.

On Skewers

• Serve on Skewers: Present the shrimp directly on the skewer for a fun finger-food experience at parties or gatherings.
• Garnished with Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves on top adds color and freshness.

How to Perfect Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

To ensure your Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, consider marinating the shrimp for 30 minutes instead of just 15.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh lemongrass and garlic to maximize flavor.
• Control Grill Temperature: Make sure your grill is hot enough to achieve those beautiful char marks without overcooking the shrimp.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give each skewer enough space on the grill to cook evenly; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of grilling.

Best Side Dishes for Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with your Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp enhances its flavors. Here are some excellent options.

1. Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice provides a neutral base that absorbs the shrimp’s delicious marinade.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant grilled alongside the shrimp make for a colorful plate.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and herbs can add nutrition and flavor balance.
4. Pickled Vegetables: Quick pickled carrots or daikon radish offer a tangy crunch that complements the grilled shrimp’s spice.
5. Mango Salsa: Fresh mango salsa brings sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the spicy shrimp.
6. Garlic Noodles: Buttered noodles tossed in garlic add richness that pairs well with the lemongrass flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.

• Skipping the marinade time: Not marinating the shrimp long enough can lead to bland flavor. Make sure to let it sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb all the delicious notes of lemongrass and Sriracha.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Grill them just until they turn pink and opaque, usually about 2-3 minutes per side.
• Forgetting to brush with oil: Neglecting to brush your shrimp with oil can lead to sticking on the grill. Use a light coating of oil for easy flipping and added flavor.
• Using too much Sriracha: While heat is great, too much Sriracha can overpower other flavors. Start with a teaspoon and adjust according to your spice tolerance.
• Not cleaning the grill properly: A dirty grill can affect the taste of your shrimp. Ensure it’s clean before grilling for the best flavor experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2 days for best quality.
• Keep at a temperature below 40°F (4°C).

Freezing Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Reheating Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power for 30-second intervals, checking frequently until heated.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until warmed, about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

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

What type of shrimp is best for grilling?

Tiger prawns or jumbo prawns work exceptionally well due to their size and texture. They hold up nicely on the grill.

How spicy is Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp?

The spice level can vary based on how much Sriracha you use. Feel free to adjust it according to your preference!

What should I serve with grilled shrimp?

Serve with rice, noodles, or fresh salad. You can also pair it with dipping sauces like chili garlic sauce for extra flavor.

How long does this dish take to prepare?

The total time is approximately 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it a quick meal option!

Final Thoughts

The Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp recipe offers vibrant flavors that are sure to impress friends and family. Its simplicity makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Remember, you can customize this dish by adding different herbs or spices according to your taste preferences. Give it a try; you’ll love how versatile this recipe can be!