Sweet and Sour Shrimp

Sweet and Sour Shrimp is a vibrant and flavorful dish that perfectly balances the natural sweetness of shrimp with a tangy, slightly acidic sauce. Inspired by classic Asian cuisine, this dish features succulent shrimp stir-fried with colorful vegetables and coated in a glossy sweet and sour sauce that is both comforting and satisfying. It’s a quick and easy meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home.

What makes this dish special is the combination of tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a perfectly balanced sauce. The sweet and sour profile complements the shrimp’s natural flavor without overpowering it, creating a harmonious and visually appealing dish. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, entertaining guests, or meal prep.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is quick, easy, and packed with bold, vibrant flavors. The shrimp cook in just minutes, making this dish perfect for busy evenings. The sweet and sour sauce is tangy, slightly sweet, and beautifully coats each piece of shrimp and vegetables. The colors and aromas make the dish as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it combines simplicity, speed, and delicious flavor in one dish. It’s versatile, healthy, and perfect for pairing with rice or noodles. The bright, tangy sauce and tender shrimp make it a crowd-pleaser, ideal for family meals or special occasions when you want something impressive but easy to prepare.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Calories: Approximately 300 calories per serving

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian / Chinese-Inspired

Ingredients

Shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetable oil for cooking
Red bell pepper, chopped
Green bell pepper, chopped
Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
Green onions, sliced

For the Sauce:
Ketchup
Rice vinegar
Soy sauce
Brown sugar
Pineapple juice
Cornstarch
Water
Garlic, minced
Ginger, minced

Cooking Directions

Stir-fry shrimp and vegetables, prepare the sweet and sour sauce, combine everything, and simmer until coated with the glossy sauce.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, rice vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, minced garlic, and ginger to make the sweet and sour sauce. Mix cornstarch with a small amount of water and set aside.
Step 2: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add red and green bell peppers and sauté for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Add pineapple chunks and cook for 1 minute to warm through.
Step 6: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and bring to a gentle boil. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Step 7: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
Step 8: Stir in sliced green onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Step 9: Remove from heat and serve immediately.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Sweet and Sour Shrimp over steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or fried rice. It also pairs well with noodles or alongside stir-fried vegetables. Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.

Recipe Tips

Tip: Do not overcook the shrimp to keep them tender.
Tip: Adjust sweetness and tanginess by adding more sugar or vinegar according to taste.
Tip: Keep vegetables slightly crisp for the best texture.
Tip: Use fresh pineapple for a natural sweetness and vibrant flavor.

Variations

Spicy Sweet and Sour Shrimp: Add red chili flakes or sriracha for heat.
Vegetable Mix: Include snap peas, carrots, or broccoli for extra crunch.
Citrus Twist: Add orange or lime juice to the sauce for a citrusy flavor.
Honey Version: Substitute brown sugar with honey for a milder sweetness.
Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce added sugar.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp can become rubbery when frozen and reheated. Freeze the sauce separately if needed for future use.

Special Equipment Needed

Large skillet or wok
Mixing bowls
Measuring spoons
Whisk
Spatula or tongs

Conclusion

Sweet and Sour Shrimp is a quick, flavorful, and colorful dish that combines tender shrimp with crisp vegetables and a tangy-sweet sauce. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. With its balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home cooking rotation.