Sweet & Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Recipe

There’s something magical about recipes that come together quickly but taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. This Sweet & Spicy Gochujang Shrimp recipe is one of those weeknight wonders that delivers bold flavors, vibrant color, and just the right balance of heat and sweetness. If you’re already a fan of Korean flavors or just dipping your toes into gochujang for the first time—this one’s going to knock your socks off!

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What is Sweet & Spicy Gochujang Shrimp?

Let’s start with the basics: this recipe stars tender shrimp that’s sautéed and coated in a sticky, glossy sauce made from gochujang (Korean red chili paste), honey, garlic, and soy sauce. The shrimp cook in mere minutes, but the resulting dish is layered with complexity—umami-rich, mildly smoky, and bursting with that addictive sweet heat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and foolproof: 15–20 minutes start to finish!
• Bold, exciting flavor: Gochujang brings depth and a pleasant kick without overwhelming heat.
• Weeknight-friendly but dinner-party worthy: Elegant enough for guests, easy enough for Tuesdays.
• Customizable: Great over rice, noodles, salad, or in tacos!
• Minimal cleanup: One skillet. That’s it.

What Does Gochujang Shrimp Taste Like?

Imagine biting into plump, juicy shrimp glazed in a sauce that hits all the notes—sweet from honey, spicy from gochujang, savory from soy sauce, and a little garlicky punch. It’s glossy, sticky, and beautifully caramelized around the edges. The flavor is rich without being heavy, spicy without being aggressive, and just plain addictive. Think Korean BBQ vibes but on your stovetop in minutes!

Health Benefits of Gochujang Shrimp

Shrimp is a lean source of protein, rich in selenium, iodine, and B12. Gochujang, in moderation, offers gut-friendly fermented benefits and adds big flavor without the need for heavy sauces. With low sugar and oil (compared to takeout), this homemade version keeps things clean while satisfying that spicy-sweet craving.

Ingredients for Sweet & Spicy Gochujang Shrimp

For the shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or neutral oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the sauce:

• 2 tbsp gochujang
• 1 tbsp honey (maple syrup works too!)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger (optional, but adds depth)
• 1–2 tsp water (to thin, if needed)

To garnish:

• Toasted sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions
• Fresh lime wedges (for serving)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Mixing bowl for sauce
• Tongs or spatula
• Microplane or grater (for ginger/garlic)
• Optional: small brush for sauce (if grilling)

Optional Additions & Easy Substitutions

Add-ins:

• Snap peas or julienned carrots tossed in with shrimp
• Pineapple chunks for a sweet contrast
• A handful of chopped cilantro on top

Substitutions:

• Swap honey for agave or maple syrup
• Tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free soy sauce
• Use chicken, tofu, or salmon in place of shrimp!

I promised you versatile, and here’s proof!

How to Make Sweet & Spicy Gochujang Shrimp (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prep the shrimp
Pat your shrimp dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. This helps them sear, not steam.

Step 2: Mix the sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. If it looks too thick, add a splash of water.

Step 3: Sear the shrimp
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Sear for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and lightly golden.

Step 4: Add the sauce
Turn heat to medium. Pour in your sauce and toss to coat. Let it bubble and thicken for about 1–2 minutes—don’t walk away! The smell when this is in the pan is incredible!!

Step 5: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle with sesame seeds, green onions, and a squeeze of lime. Done!

What to Serve with Gochujang Shrimp

This shrimp is a total team player. Try pairing it with:

• Steamed jasmine or sticky rice
• Cold soba or rice noodles with cucumber and sesame oil
• Lettuce wraps with shredded cabbage and carrots
• Over a simple Asian slaw
• Tacos with a mango slaw twist

Tips for Perfect Gochujang Shrimp Every Time

• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Give your shrimp room so they sear instead of steaming.
• Adjust the heat – Add more or less gochujang depending on your spice preference.
• Marinate ahead – You can toss shrimp in the sauce up to 2 hours before cooking for deeper flavor.
• Watch the sauce – It thickens fast! Pull it off the heat once it’s glossy and sticky.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Storage:
Let shrimp cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat:
Gently warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave for 30–60 seconds. You can add a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQ – Sweet & Spicy Gochujang Shrimp

Q: What is gochujang, and where can I find it?
A: Gochujang is a Korean fermented red chili paste with a rich, savory, sweet-spicy flavor. It’s available in most grocery stores (Asian aisle), or online.

Q: Can I grill the shrimp instead?
A: Absolutely! Grill on skewers, then brush with the sauce in the last minute of cooking.

Q: Is this recipe very spicy?
A: It’s more of a sweet heat. You can control the spice level by using less gochujang or adding a bit more honey.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can prep the sauce and shrimp ahead, but cook just before serving for the best texture.

Wrapping It All Up

If you’re looking to add a punch of flavor to your weeknight dinner routine, this Sweet & Spicy Gochujang Shrimp is it. It’s bold, exciting, and ridiculously easy. Whether you serve it over rice, wrapped in lettuce, or folded into tacos, it never disappoints.

So go grab that jar of gochujang and let’s get cooking—your taste buds will thank you. And hey, if you make this, please leave a review and tag your photos on Pinterest @TheKitchenJoyy —I LOVE seeing your creations!

You Might Also Love…

• Craving something crunchy and cheesy? Try these Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders – they’re kid-approved and wildly addictive!
• For comfort food with a creamy twist, this Creamy Chicken and Rice will wrap you in a warm, delicious hug.
• Or switch things up with these bite-sized beauties: Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bites – the perfect party snack or fun dinner idea!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Approximate, for 1/4 of the recipe:

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 650mg

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