If you’re a fan of bold flavors and crave a delightful culinary experience, look no further! In this ultimate guide, we present to you a sensational dish that will take your taste buds on a journey to remember – Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Gochujang Sauce. We’ll dive deep into the art of preparing these mouthwatering shrimp skewers, infused with a deeply savory gochujang marinade that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re hosting a weeknight dinner or planning a summer BBQ, these shrimp skewers are destined to steal the show and become a household favorite.
The Magic of Gochujang Sauce
At the heart of this recipe lies the magical ingredient – gochujang (고추장). This traditional Korean chili paste is a flavor powerhouse that brings a unique blend of savory, peppery, pungent, slightly sweet, and spicy notes. Gochujang is a staple in Korean cuisine, often used to create delectable spicy marinades for various grilled dishes like chicken, squid, and pork BBQ. Its versatility and ability to elevate flavors make it a must-have in any spice-loving cook’s pantry.
Perfecting the Gochujang Marinade
Crafting the ideal gochujang marinade is key to the success of these spicy grilled shrimp skewers. To begin, combine 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil with 1 teaspoon of minced garlic (or more to taste) and the juice of half a fresh lemon. These ingredients form the base of the marinade, providing a zesty and aromatic foundation.
Now, add 2 tablespoons of gochujang to the mix, infusing the marinade with its signature spiciness. To strike the perfect balance, incorporate 1 tablespoon of sugar or honey. The sugar/honey not only complements the saltiness of gochujang but also aids in creating a delightful caramelization on the shrimp during grilling.
The Enchanting Shrimp Skewers
Choosing the right shrimp and preparing them skillfully is essential to achieve mouthwatering results. Opt for large or jumbo shrimp, ideally 16 to 20 count or 21 to 25 count. If you prefer the convenience of peeled shrimp, they marinate more effectively. However, if you desire an added depth of flavor, shell-on shrimp will lend a subtle richness from the shells.
To ensure the shrimp grill to perfection without drying out, soak wood or bamboo skewers in water for approximately 30 minutes before threading the shrimp. Skewering the shrimp not only streamlines the grilling process but also allows for convenient handling with the tail acting as a built-in handle.
Marinating the Shrimp to Perfection
Once the shrimp are expertly skewered, lightly season them with salt and pepper while they eagerly await their flavorful bath in the gochujang marinade. Pour the marinade generously over the shrimp, ensuring an even coating. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for an enhanced flavor experience, leave them overnight to absorb the rich flavors of the gochujang sauce.
Mastering the Grilling Technique
Grilling the marinated shrimp is the exciting moment when all your efforts culminate into a culinary masterpiece. Preheat your grill to a moderate heat, and lightly oil it to prevent sticking. The shrimp cook up incredibly fast, so be vigilant and avoid overcooking to prevent dryness. Typically, a minute or two on each side is sufficient, but the cooking time may vary based on the heat source and shrimp size.
While grilling, baste the shrimp with the remaining gochujang sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Alternatively, if you don’t have a grill, a grill pan, broiler, or skillet will do the trick splendidly.
Serving and Garnishing
Once your shrimp skewers are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve them with flair. Consider pairing them with grilled vegetables or a refreshing summer salad to create a complete and satisfying meal. For a visually appealing presentation, garnish the shrimp skewers with finely chopped scallions or chives – an optional touch that adds an extra layer of flavor and color.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Gochujang Sauce is a delightful dish that will captivate your senses with its rich, savory, and spicy profile. With the perfect gochujang marinade and expertly grilled shrimp, this recipe elevates a simple seafood dish to gourmet heights.
We invite you to embrace the culinary magic of gochujang and create unforgettable moments around the dinner table. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive summer BBQ, these shrimp skewers will undoubtedly steal the spotlight and leave your guests raving about your culinary prowess. Let your taste buds dance with joy as you savor the explosive flavors of this Korean-inspired masterpiece!
Spicy Grilled Shrimp (Gochujang Saewu Gui) Recipe
Main, Main Course
- Prep Time: 10minutes minutes
- Cook Time: 5minutes minutes
- Resting Time: 30minutes minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp peeled, tail on, and deveined
- salt and pepper
- For the marinade:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic or more to taste
- juice of 1/2 of a fresh lemon about 2 tablespoons
- 2 tablespoons gochujang
- 1 tablespoon sugar or honey
- For the garnish:
- finely chopped scallions or chives for garnish optional
- Bamboo/wood skewers
Instructions
- Soak the wooden skewers in water while preparing the shrimp. Peel and devein the shrimp if they are shell-on. Rinse the shrimp and drain well (or pat dry). Thread 3 or 4 shrimps on to the skewers. Lightly sprinkle them with salt and pepper.
- Mix all the marinade ingredients well in a bowl.
- Spoon (or brush) the marinade all over the shrimp to coat evenly. Let stand for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat a lightly oiled grill. Grill the shrimp over moderate heat until they turn opaque and curled up, a minute or two each side, depending on the heat source. Do not overcook. Baste the shrimp with the remaining sauce while grilling and before serving. You can also cook the shrimp in a grill pan over medium high heat. Garnish with the optional scallions or chives.
Author
Last updated: October 23, 2023