Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the fresh, zesty flavors of lemongrass with the spicy kick of Sriracha. This recipe is perfect for grilling season, outdoor gatherings, or even a quick weeknight dinner. The unique blend of ingredients creates a mouthwatering experience that will impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it suitable for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lemongrass and Sriracha gives these shrimp a unique taste that’s sure to please.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as an appetizer, main course, or alongside rice for a complete meal.
• Healthy Choice: Low in calories yet high in protein, this dish fits into many dietary plans.
• Easy Cleanup: Grilling shrimp means less mess in the kitchen compared to traditional cooking methods.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp, gather the essential tools needed for preparation. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers
• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Perfect for threading shrimp, ensuring even cooking on the grill.
• Grill: Provides that smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of grilled shrimp.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining marinade ingredients seamlessly with 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: Clean the Shrimp

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

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

Add all marinade ingredients to the bowl:
1. Pour in fish sauce.
2. Add grated lemongrass.
3. Mix in powdered sugar.
4. Stir in Sriracha and minced garlic.
5. Include chili garlic sauce and water.
6. Combine well until the shrimp are evenly coated.

Let them marinate for 15 minutes.

Step 3: Skewer the Shrimp

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

Step 4: Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Grill the skewers on both sides until charred and cooked through, which should take about 5 minutes per side.

Serve immediately with dipping sauce if desired. Enjoy your flavorful Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp!

How to Serve Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

Serving Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp is all about enhancing its vibrant flavors. Here are some creative ways to present this dish that will impress your guests and make every meal a memorable one.

With Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro and Mint: Garnish the shrimp with fresh cilantro and mint leaves for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add Thai basil for an aromatic touch that complements the lemongrass flavor perfectly.

On a Bed of Rice

• Jasmine Rice: Serve the grilled shrimp over fragrant jasmine rice to soak up the delicious marinade.
• Coconut Rice: For an exotic twist, pair it with coconut rice for added sweetness and richness.

As Skewers

• Appetizer Style: Serve the shrimp on skewers as bite-sized appetizers at parties or gatherings.
• Buffet Presentation: Arrange skewers on a platter for a stunning buffet display that’s easy for guests to grab.

With Dipping Sauce

• Sriracha Mayo: Mix Sriracha with mayonnaise for a creamy, spicy dip that enhances the shrimp’s flavor.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: Offer sweet chili sauce as a contrast to the heat from Sriracha, appealing to diverse tastes.

How to Perfect Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

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

• Bold Marinating Time: Let the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes but no longer than 30 minutes to avoid overcooking.
• Bold Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for optimal charring without drying out the shrimp.
• Bold Cooking Time: Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, just until they are opaque and firm.
• Bold Skewer Use: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Bold Quality Shrimp: Choose fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for better texture and taste in your dish.
• Bold Experimentation: Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less Sriracha according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with your Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp can elevate your meal into something extraordinary. Here are some delightful options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Steamed Vegetables: A mix of broccoli, carrots, and snap peas add color and nutrition without overshadowing the shrimp.
2. Mango Salad: A refreshing mango salad with lime dressing offers a sweet contrast to the spicy shrimp.
3. Noodle Salad: Cold noodle salad with sesame dressing provides a chewy texture that balances well with grilled shrimp.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: Light quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs makes a wholesome base that absorbs the flavors of the dish.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter adds sweetness that pairs nicely with spicy flavors.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled vegetables offer crunch and acidity that cuts through richness while enhancing taste.
7. Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread can be an unexpected yet delightful side, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling shrimp can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture of your Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using unpeeled shrimp: Always peel and devein the shrimp before marinating. This allows the flavors to penetrate better and makes for easier eating.
• Skipping the marinade time: Marinating for at least 15 minutes is crucial. This step allows the shrimp to absorb the delicious lemongrass and Sriracha flavors.
• Overcrowding the grill: Avoid placing too many shrimp on the grill at once. This can lead to uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary.
• Not preheating the grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the shrimp. A well-preheated grill helps achieve that perfect char and prevents sticking.
• Ignoring cooking times: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery, ruining your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp in an airtight container.
• They can last in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Make sure to cool them down before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

• Freeze cooked shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will maintain best quality for about 1 month.
• Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place shrimp on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm, being careful not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil. Add shrimp and sauté for 2-3 minutes until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes lemongrass suitable for grilling?

Lemongrass provides a citrusy flavor that complements seafood beautifully. Its aromatic qualities enhance dishes like Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp, making them more vibrant.

Can I use other types of shrimp?

Yes! Feel free to use any variety of shrimp you prefer, such as large white shrimp or even smaller varieties if you enjoy bite-sized pieces in your dishes.

How spicy is this grilled shrimp recipe?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of Sriracha used in the marinade. For milder flavor, reduce Sriracha or use less chili garlic sauce.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can marinate the shrimp ahead of time (up to 30 minutes) but avoid marinating too long, as this can make them mushy. Cook just before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

The Lemongrass and Sriracha Grilled Shrimp recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with delightful flavors that impress at any gathering. You can customize it by adding your favorite herbs or adjusting spice levels according to your taste preferences. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!