Mongolian Shrimp Better Than Takeout Delicious Dish
Craving takeout but want something better? Try making Mongolian Shrimp at home! This dish features juicy shrimp and crisp veggies, all coated in a sweet and savory sauce. You can whip it up in no time, using fresh ingredients that pack flavor. With my step-by-step guide, you’ll create a delicious meal that’s even better than your favorite restaurant. Let’s dive into this homemade delight!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced thin
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 cup snow peas, trimmed and ends snapped off
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
Sauce Components
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
The main ingredients create a vibrant, colorful dish. The large shrimp form the base, giving you a sweet and tender bite. The onion, garlic, and ginger add depth and warmth to the flavor. The red bell pepper and snow peas bring fresh crunch and color.
For the sauce, the low-sodium soy sauce keeps it savory without being too salty. Brown sugar gives a touch of sweetness, while cornstarch thickens the sauce, making it cling perfectly to the shrimp and veggies. A splash of sesame oil adds a lovely nutty flavor.
Lastly, fresh cilantro leaves are a great touch. They brighten the dish and add a hint of freshness. You can skip them if you prefer, but I recommend trying them. Each ingredient works together to create a dish that’s better than takeout!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Sauce
- Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch in a bowl; whisk until smooth.
This sauce is key to the flavor. It balances salty and sweet notes. Use low-sodium soy sauce if you want it lighter. The cornstarch helps thicken the sauce later on.
Cooking the Vegetables
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet; sauté onions until soft.
Start by heating the oil over medium-high. The oil should shimmer before adding onions. Cook the onions for about 2-3 minutes. You want them soft and translucent.
- Add garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
Next, add your minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir them in for about 30 seconds. This step adds a nice aroma and depth to your dish. Be careful not to burn them.
Cooking the Shrimp
- Add shrimp to the skillet; cook until pink and opaque.
Now, it’s shrimp time! Toss in the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes. They should turn bright pink and opaque. This shows they are cooked through.
- Incorporate red bell pepper and snow peas; stir-fry for tender-crisp texture.
Add your sliced red bell pepper and snow peas next. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes. You want them to stay crunchy, adding great texture to the meal.
Finalizing the Dish
- Pour the sauce into the skillet; cook until thickened.
Now, pour that prepared sauce into the skillet. Stir everything to coat well. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes. The sauce should thicken and become glossy.
- Drizzle with sesame oil and add green onions; toss to combine.
Finally, drizzle some sesame oil over the top. Add your chopped green onions and toss everything gently. This step adds a fresh taste and bright color to your dish.
Tips & Tricks
Perfectly Cooked Shrimp
To avoid tough shrimp, cook them just right. Here are some key tips:
- Look for color change: Shrimp turn pink and opaque when cooked.
- Use high heat: A hot skillet cooks shrimp fast and keeps them tender.
- Timing is key: Cook shrimp for only 2-3 minutes until done.
- Avoid overcrowding: Cook in batches if needed for even cooking.
Choosing Fresh Ingredients
Fresh ingredients make a big difference in taste. Here’s how to choose the best:
- Shrimp: Look for shrimp with a firm texture and a mild smell. Fresh shrimp should not have a strong fishy odor.
- Vegetables: Choose bright, crisp vegetables. For bell peppers, look for smooth skin, and for snow peas, choose ones that snap easily.
- Onions and Garlic: Select firm onions and plump garlic cloves without soft spots.
Enhancing Flavor
To elevate your dish, try these simple tips:
- Add spices: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat.
- Include fresh herbs: Cilantro or basil will brighten flavors.
- Experiment with sauces: A splash of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce can add depth.
- Try citrus: A squeeze of lime or lemon juice can brighten the dish.
These tips will help you make your Mongolian shrimp better than takeout. Enjoy your cooking!
Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can easily swap shrimp for other proteins. Chicken works great. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces. Cook them until they are no longer pink. Tofu is also a fantastic choice. Use firm tofu, cut into cubes. Sauté it until golden. Beef is another option. Thinly slice flank steak or sirloin and cook until tender. Each protein adds its own flavor and texture.
Vegetable Substitutions
Feel free to mix up the veggies in this dish. Broccoli florets add a nice crunch. Carrots, sliced thin, bring a sweet note. Snap peas or bell peppers can also shine in this recipe. You can even try bok choy for a unique twist. Make sure to keep the vegetables crisp for a great bite.
Gluten-Free Options
Want to make this dish gluten-free? Swap out the soy sauce for tamari. Tamari has a similar taste but is gluten-free. You can also use coconut aminos as a soy sauce alternative. Be sure to check labels on any sauces you use. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal without worry.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
Store your leftover Mongolian shrimp in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. It will last for 2 to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just check for any off smells or changes in texture.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze Mongolian shrimp, let it cool completely first. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. This dish can stay frozen for up to three months. Label the bag with the date, so you remember when you made it.
Reheating Tips
Reheat your shrimp in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir gently to ensure even heating. You can also use a microwave, but cover it to keep moisture in. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot. Enjoy your meal just like the first time!
FAQs
Can I make Mongolian shrimp ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Mongolian shrimp in advance. Start by cooking the shrimp and vegetables. Let them cool before storing. Keep the dish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When you are ready to eat, just reheat it in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to help it heat evenly. This makes it quick and easy for busy nights!
What can I serve with Mongolian shrimp?
Mongolian shrimp pairs well with many sides. Here are some great ideas:
- Jasmine rice
- Fried rice
- Noodles
- Steamed broccoli
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Egg rolls
These options add variety and make your meal more filling.
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe is not very spicy. The flavors come from garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. If you want some heat, try adding red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños. You can control the spice by adding little by little until it suits your taste.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or running them under cold water for about 10 minutes. After thawing, pat them dry with paper towels before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and prevents extra water from affecting the sauce.
This blog post covered how to make a delicious Mongolian shrimp dish. You learned about the main ingredients, sauce components, and cooking steps. I shared helpful tips for perfecting the shrimp and selecting fresh veggies. You also discovered variations with different proteins and ways to store your leftovers.
Mongolian shrimp is easy to make and full of flavor. With these steps, you can create a dish that impresses friends and family. Enjoy cooking!
![To make Classic Sloppy Joes, you need some simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s what you will need: - 1 lb ground beef (or turkey) - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup tomato sauce - 2 tablespoons ketchup - 1 tablespoon brown sugar - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce - 1 teaspoon mustard - Salt and pepper to taste - 4 hamburger buns - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) - Fresh parsley for garnish These ingredients come together to create a rich and tasty filling. The ground beef or turkey serves as a hearty base. The onion and bell pepper add a nice crunch and sweetness. Garlic gives it a punch of flavor. You can also adjust the recipe. If you want a lighter dish, use turkey. For a cheesy twist, add cheddar on top. Fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness. This Classic Sloppy Joes recipe is quick and easy. You can find the full recipe [Full Recipe]. Enjoy cooking! First, heat a large skillet over medium heat. This step is key to getting a nice sear. Once the skillet is hot, add 1 lb ground beef or turkey. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks. This helps it brown evenly. Cook until the meat is browned throughout. Be sure to drain any excess fat from the pan. This keeps your Sloppy Joes from being greasy. Next, add 1 small finely chopped onion, 1/2 green bell pepper, and 2 cloves minced garlic to the skillet. Stir the mixture well. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the veggies soften and smell great. They add a nice flavor to your dish. Now it’s time to make the sauce. Stir in 1 cup tomato sauce, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon mustard. Mix everything well until the sauce blends with the meat and veggies. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step helps all the flavors meld together. Lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Let the mixture cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If it gets too thick, add a splash of water. This keeps it from becoming dry. Stirring helps prevent sticking and keeps the mixture smooth. Taste the mixture and season it with salt and pepper to your liking. This is your chance to adjust the flavors. While the sloppy joe filling simmers, toast 4 hamburger buns. You can use a hot skillet or toaster. Toast them until they are golden brown and slightly crisp. This adds a nice crunch to your meal. To serve, take a toasted bun and spoon the savory filling onto it. For a cheesy twist, add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese on top. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. This makes your Sloppy Joes look and taste amazing. Enjoy this delightful dish with your family! For the full recipe, check the recipe section above. To enhance flavor, try adjusting the ketchup or brown sugar. If you like it sweeter, add more brown sugar. For a tangy kick, a splash of vinegar works wonders. The sauce should be rich but not too thick. If it gets too thick, add a little water or extra tomato sauce. This keeps it juicy and fun to eat. You can cook Sloppy Joes on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. The stovetop is quick and easy. Sauté the meat and veggies, then let it simmer. In a slow cooker, mix everything and let it cook for hours. This method deepens the flavor. You can also swap the meat. Ground turkey or chicken are great lighter options. For a twist, try lentils for a vegetarian dish. Sloppy Joes pair well with crispy fries or a fresh coleslaw. The crunch of the coleslaw balances the softness of the sandwich. For drinks, a cold soda or iced tea is perfect. You can also enjoy them with a light beer if you prefer. These pairings make your meal fun and complete. {{image_4}} You can spice up your Sloppy Joes with fun twists. For a veggie option, try lentils or black beans instead of meat. They give a hearty texture and soak up the sauce well. Another twist is BBQ Sloppy Joes. Just add your favorite BBQ sauce to the meat mixture for a sweet and tangy flavor. Toppings can make your Sloppy Joes even more amazing. You might want to add different types of cheese. Try provolone or pepper jack for a kick. You can also mix in various sauces. A drizzle of ranch or hot sauce adds a nice touch. Different places have their own takes on Sloppy Joes. In Mexico, they use spices and jalapeños for a spicy version. In the Philippines, they might add sweet sauce and serve it with rice. Exploring these options shows how versatile this dish can be. To keep your Sloppy Joes fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place the cooled mixture in the fridge. Make sure to separate any extra buns to avoid sogginess. You can keep the leftovers for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. When you reheat Sloppy Joes, the stovetop is best. Place the mixture in a skillet over low heat. Stir often to keep it juicy. If using the microwave, cover it with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in. For buns, you can toast them lightly on a skillet or wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven. This way, they stay soft and tasty. To freeze the Sloppy Joe mixture, let it cool first. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove until hot. Enjoy your Sloppy Joes just like the first time! Making Classic Sloppy Joes is quick and easy. You need about 10 minutes for prep. Cooking takes another 15 minutes. In total, you can have dinner ready in just 25 minutes. Yes, you can use ground turkey as a lighter choice. Turkey has fewer calories and less fat than beef. The flavor will be milder, so you might want to adjust your spices. It’s a great way to make a healthier Sloppy Joe. Sloppy Joes pair well with many sides. Here are some tasty options: - French fries - Coleslaw - Potato chips - Corn on the cob - Salad These sides add nice crunch and freshness to your meal. You can definitely make Sloppy Joes ahead of time. Just cook the meat and sauce, then store it in the fridge. It will last for three days. When you’re ready to eat, heat it up and serve on toasted buns. This makes meal prep easy and saves time. For longer storage, you can freeze the mixture. Just thaw and reheat when ready. You’ll still enjoy great flavor! In this blog post, we covered how to make Classic Sloppy Joes. We explored the ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for flavoring. I also shared variations and storage methods. Sloppy Joes are simple to make, versatile, and fun to eat. Don't hesitate to explore your options by trying new ingredients or toppings. Enjoy your meal and share it with friends for a delicious time!](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/3a095a95-3efb-4397-8f70-4189d4d50cab-768x768.webp)
![- Firm tofu and its preparation Use 14 oz of firm tofu for this recipe. Press it for about 30 minutes to remove excess water. This step helps the tofu absorb the teriyaki sauce, making it more flavorful. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. - Marinade ingredients for teriyaki sauce The marinade is key to the dish's taste. For a simple teriyaki sauce, mix together: - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 2 tablespoons maple syrup - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 2 cloves) - 1 teaspoon minced ginger (fresh preferred) This blend gives the skewers a sweet and savory profile. - Colorful vegetables to enhance the skewers Color matters! Use a mix of vegetables for a vibrant look and taste. I suggest: - 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch chunks - 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds - 1 red onion, cut into quarters These veggies not only add color but also texture and flavor. - Additional seasonings or garnishes Feel free to add sesame seeds for garnish. They add a nice crunch and look great. You can also sprinkle some fresh cilantro or green onions for extra flavor and color. - Suggestions for protein substitutions If you want to mix it up, consider other proteins. You can use tempeh or seitan for a similar texture. Chicken or shrimp works too, if you prefer meat. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. For the complete recipe, refer to the [Full Recipe]. The ingredients listed here create a great base for the teriyaki grilled tofu skewers. Happy cooking! To make the teriyaki marinade, combine soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger in a bowl. Whisk until mixed well. This marinade adds deep flavors to the tofu. For great results, use firm tofu. Press it to remove excess water. This helps the tofu absorb the marinade. After mixing, gently add the cubed tofu. Toss carefully to coat without breaking it. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. For a stronger taste, try marinating it overnight. If you use wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 to 30 minutes. This simple step prevents burning on the grill. While the skewers soak, prepare your vegetables. Cut red bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. After soaking, take the skewers and assemble them. Start with a tofu cube, then add a piece of red bell pepper, followed by zucchini and red onion. Repeat this pattern until the skewer is filled. This creates a colorful and tasty mix. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures even cooking for your skewers. Once heated, place the skewers on the grill. Cook them for 8 to 10 minutes. Use tongs to turn the skewers occasionally. This helps them cook evenly. In the last minute, brush any leftover teriyaki marinade over the skewers. This adds extra glaze and flavor. When done, carefully take the skewers off the grill. Let them cool for about a minute before serving. Enjoy your teriyaki grilled tofu skewers! For the full recipe, check the earlier section. To make your teriyaki marinade pop, use fresh ingredients. Fresh garlic and ginger add great taste. A longer marinating time gives deeper flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best. Common mistakes include not pressing the tofu well. If the tofu is too wet, it won’t absorb the marinade. Also, avoid using too much soy sauce, as it can overpower the dish. Balance is key. When grilling tofu, medium-high heat works best. This helps the tofu get a nice char. Don’t forget to turn the skewers often. This ensures even cooking on all sides. For veggies, keep an eye on cooking time. Overcooked veggies lose their crunch. Aim for tender but still crisp, which adds great texture. Style your dish neatly on a platter. Arrange the skewers in a fan shape for visual appeal. For garnishing, sprinkle sesame seeds over the skewers. Fresh cilantro or green onions also add color and flavor. Serve with steamed rice or a fresh salad to make a complete meal. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. {{image_4}} You can easily make these skewers with other proteins. Try using seitan or tempeh. Both absorb flavors well and work great. If you prefer legumes, marinated chickpeas can add a nice touch. These options keep the dish vegan while still being tasty. Want to spice things up? Add some sriracha or chili paste to the marinade. This adds heat and depth. You can also mix in some pineapple juice for a sweeter twist. Experimenting with different spices like smoked paprika or five-spice powder can also create unique flavors. Switch up the veggies based on the season. In spring, try asparagus or snap peas. For summer, zucchini and bell peppers shine. In fall, use mushrooms and butternut squash for a hearty taste. Winter calls for root vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes. Each season brings fresh flavors to your skewers. To store leftover teriyaki grilled tofu skewers, place them in an airtight container. Make sure to let them cool down first. This step helps keep them fresh. Store the container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing. Just keep in mind that the texture may change. To reheat the skewers, the oven works best. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes, or until warm. You can also use a microwave. Just heat for 30 seconds at a time, checking to avoid overcooking. Yes, you can freeze the skewers! Wrap them in plastic wrap and put them in a freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as you can. They will stay good for about two months. When you're ready to eat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat as mentioned above. This method keeps the flavor intact. Marinating tofu for at least 30 minutes gives it good flavor. If you want even more taste, let it sit overnight. The longer the tofu marinates, the better it absorbs the teriyaki sauce. Yes, you can use store-bought teriyaki sauce. It saves time and still tastes great. Just make sure to check the label for quality ingredients. These skewers pair well with steamed rice or a fresh green salad. You can also serve them with a side of grilled vegetables. For extra flavor, add a dollop of spicy mayo or a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce. To stop skewers from sticking, oil the grill grates before cooking. You can also brush a little oil on the skewers. If using wooden skewers, soaking them in water helps too. This keeps them from burning and sticking. This blog post covered how to make tasty teriyaki grilled tofu skewers. We explored key ingredients like firm tofu, flavorful marinade, and vibrant veggies. I shared step-by-step instructions for marinating, preparing, and grilling the skewers. You learned tips to enhance the dish, like perfecting the marinade and improving presentation. In the end, these skewers are a fun and healthy meal. With simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy grilling any time.](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/0e56396a-f5cd-46e1-b6b9-5b907260de8f-768x768.webp)
