| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 177 | 7g | 1g | 10g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 0g | 19g | 1.9g |
There’s something incredibly special about the Lemongrass Barbecue Shrimp recipe that tugs at my heartstrings and tantalizes my taste buds. Growing up in Charleston, South Carolina, where the air is always infused with the maritime aroma of the sea, I’ve always been drawn to coastal seafood. Yet, this shrimp dish isn’t just another seafood recipe; it’s a vibrant fusion of fresh lemongrass and savory-sweet barbecue essence that truly transports you.
A Symphony of Flavors
What sets this recipe apart for me are the bold yet harmonious flavors. The fresh lemongrass brings a citrusy zest that compliments the succulent shrimp in a way that is both refreshing and aromatic. When mixed with soy sauce, fish sauce, and lime juice, it creates a flavorful marinade that penetrates deep into each shrimp, making every bite an explosion of taste.
Using brown sugar and honey to balance the acidity and spice works wonders in achieving that perfect sweet-savory balance. Chili flakes add just the right amount of kick, making this dish irresistible for those who enjoy a bit of heat. And let’s not forget the garlic—those three minced cloves work behind the scenes, adding depth and warmth.
Why It’s Great for You
Besides its mouth-watering flavor profile, Lemongrass Barbecue Shrimp is a health-conscious choice. Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein option rich in vital nutrients like selenium, iodine, and vitamin B12. Lemongrass itself has impressive health benefits, including its antioxidant properties and ability to aid digestion and reduce inflammation.
When paired with vegetable oil and fresh cilantro, you get a dish that’s not only light but also packed with beneficial vitamins and minerals. The lime wedges on the side add an extra bit of flavor and provide an excellent source of vitamin C.
The Perfect Complements
While this shrimp dish can easily be the star of your meal, it also pairs beautifully with various sides. Try serving it with steamed jasmine rice or a vibrant quinoa salad to soak up the delicious marinade. If you’re up for a Southern twist, some classic coleslaw or grilled corn on the cob would complement the shrimp’s flavors splendidly.
If you love this dish, you might also enjoy recipes like Thai Basil Shrimp or Vietnamese Grilled Pork, which share similar flavor foundations and work well with many of the same sides.
Ready to give it a try? Head over to the full recipe and dive into the incredible experience this Lemongrass Barbecue Shrimp promises.
Are you looking to explore more unique shrimp recipes? Check out these amazing shrimp ideas from the Food Network! Or perhaps you’re curious about other dishes enriched with lemongrass? Bon Appétit has a great collection of flavorful lemongrass recipes worth exploring.
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup fresh lemongrass, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup fish sauce
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
Method
Step One
In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped lemongrass, minced garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, honey, chili flakes, and vegetable oil. Stir well to create the marinade.
Step Two
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat the shrimp evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step Three
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15–20 minutes to prevent burning.
Step Four
Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece of shrimp for even cooking.
Step Five
Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and are slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp as they can become tough.
Step Six
Remove the grilled shrimp from the skewers and place them on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your Lemongrass Barbecue Shrimp!
