Korean Spicy Shrimp Recipe | Easy Dakdoritang by Kelvin's Kitchen

Discover the delicious flavors of Korean cuisine with this easy and spicy shrimp recipe! Perfect for a quick dinner, this Dakdoritang-inspired dish is a crowd-pleaser. Get the full recipe and step-by-step instructions at Kelvin's Kitchen.

Gochujang: The Powerhouse of Korean Cuisine

Gochujang, the star ingredient in this recipe, isn't just about heat—it's a complex flavor bomb! This fermented chili paste is made from chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt, which come together to create a rich, deep umami flavor. This unique combination makes gochujang a staple in Korean kitchens, adding depth and a delightful kick to everything from soups to marinades. Its versatility and distinctive taste are why it’s often compared to the "Beyoncé of condiments!"

Quick, Easy, and Nutritious

Not only is this Korean Spicy Shrimp recipe packed with bold flavors, but it's also a nutritious and time-efficient meal. Shrimp is a fantastic source of high-quality protein and low in calories, making it a great choice for a healthy diet. Plus, with a cooking time of just 15 minutes, you can whip up a delicious and satisfying dish in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. It’s proof that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for convenience or nutrition!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Gochujang and can I substitute it?

Gochujang is a Korean red chili paste that adds a unique spicy, sweet, and savory flavor to dishes. If you can't find gochujang, you can substitute it with a mix of miso paste and sriracha, though the flavor won't be exactly the same.

2. How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe has a moderate level of heat due to the gochujang and cayenne pepper. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper to suit your taste.

3. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with a paper towel before marinating them to ensure they absorb the flavors well.

4. What can I serve with Korean Spicy Shrimp?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of vegetables or a simple salad to balance out the meal.

5. How can I make this recipe less spicy?

To reduce the spiciness, you can decrease the amount of cayenne pepper or use a milder chili powder. You can also add a bit more honey to balance the heat with sweetness.

6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the shrimp ahead of time. However, it's best to cook the shrimp and combine everything just before serving to ensure the shrimp remain tender and juicy.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Always check the labels of your other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

8. Can I use other types of seafood instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with other seafood like scallops, squid, or even firm white fish. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.

9. What vegetables can I add to this dish?

You can add a variety of vegetables such as carrots, snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces and stir-fry until they are tender.

10. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, you can replace the shrimp with tofu or a variety of mixed vegetables. The sauce remains the same and will complement the vegetarian ingredients well.

11. What type of rice works best with this dish?

Steamed jasmine or basmati rice works best with this dish. Their light and fluffy texture complements the bold flavors of the spicy shrimp.

12. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should keep well for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

13. Can I freeze this dish?

While you can freeze the cooked shrimp and sauce, it’s best to consume them fresh to maintain the texture and flavor. If you must freeze, do so in an airtight container for up to one month and reheat gently.

14. What kind of oil should I use?

A neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil works best for stir-frying. Sesame oil is added for flavor, but it has a lower smoke point and is not ideal for high-heat cooking.

15. How can I make this dish more authentic?

To enhance the authenticity, you can add a sprinkle of Korean sesame seeds or drizzle a bit of sesame oil just before serving. Using Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) instead of cayenne can also add a more traditional flavor.

Make it

Korean Spicy Shrimp Recipe

Ingredients Section:

Shrimp Marinade:

1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon rice wine (or dry sherry)
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce:

2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 cup water

Other Ingredients:

1 medium onion (sliced)
1 bell pepper (sliced, any color)
2 green onions (cut into 1-inch pieces)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of rice wine (or dry sherry), 1/2 teaspoon of sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Add 1 pound of peeled and deveined large shrimp and toss to coat. Let the shrimp marinate for about 15 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of gochujang, 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust to taste), 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of grated ginger, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1/4 cup of water. Stir well until the mixture is smooth.
Cook the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in 1 sliced medium onion and 1 sliced bell pepper. Stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes until they start to soften.
Combine and Simmer: Return the shrimp to the skillet and pour the sauce over everything. Stir to coat all the ingredients well. Let it simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.
Finish and Serve: Add 2 green onions (cut into 1-inch pieces) to the skillet and give it a final stir. Garnish with 1 teaspoon of sesame seeds and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Tips and Variations:

Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference. Start with less and add more if needed.
Vegetables: Feel free to add more veggies like carrots or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
Substitutions: If you don't have gochujang, use a combination of miso paste and sriracha for a similar effect.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Quick and Easy: Perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Full of Flavor: A great balance of spicy, sweet, and savory.
Versatile: Pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles and can be adjusted to your taste.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 320
Protein: 25 grams
Total Fat: 15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2 grams
Total Carbohydrates: 20 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 3 grams
- Sugars: 8 grams
Cholesterol: 200 milligrams
Sodium: 720 milligrams

Breakdown of Main Components:

Shrimp:
- High in protein and low in calories. Shrimp is also a good source of iodine, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Vegetables (Onion and Bell Pepper):
- Provide fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. They add volume and nutrients without many calories.
Sauce Ingredients (Gochujang, Soy Sauce, Honey, etc.):
- Gochujang and soy sauce contribute to sodium content, so adjust to your dietary needs. The sauce ingredients add flavor and some carbohydrates from the honey and sugar.
Sesame Oil and Vegetable Oil:
- These oils provide healthy fats but should be used in moderation to keep the calorie count balanced.

Considerations for Dietary Adjustments:

Lowering Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the amount of gochujang or adjust other salty ingredients.
Reducing Sugar: Cut down on the honey and sugar if you prefer a lower sugar content.
Increasing Fiber: Add more vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or zucchini to increase fiber intake.

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