Gochujang Honey Glazed Shrimp Tacos
Gochujang Honey Glazed Shrimp Tacos bring together bold Korean-inspired heat and comforting sweetness in a way that feels fresh and fun. The shrimp cook quickly, coated in a sticky glaze that balances spicy gochujang with floral honey and a touch of acidity. Tucked into warm tortillas and finished with crunchy toppings, these tacos are perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. They deliver big flavor without heavy prep and offer plenty of room to customize with your favorite slaws, herbs, and sauces. Every bite is savory, slightly sweet, and just spicy enough to keep things interesting.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4 (8 to 10 tacos)
Ingredients
For the Shrimp & Glaze
500 g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons gochujang
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 tablespoon neutral oil, for cooking
For the Tacos
8 to 10 small flour or corn tortillas
2 cups shredded cabbage or slaw mix
2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon lime juice
Salt, to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and set aside.
In a bowl, whisk together gochujang, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
Toss the shrimp in half of the glaze, reserving the rest for finishing.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the neutral oil.
Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and lightly caramelized.
Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the remaining glaze.
Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring gently, until the sauce thickens and coats the shrimp.
In a separate bowl, toss the shredded cabbage with mayonnaise, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
Warm the tortillas in a dry pan or directly over a flame until pliable.
Assemble the tacos by adding glazed shrimp to tortillas, topping with slaw, cilantro, and sesame seeds.
Tips for Best Results
Use large shrimp so they stay juicy and do not overcook.
Dry shrimp well before cooking to achieve better caramelization.
Adjust gochujang to taste if you prefer milder heat.
Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking shrimp.
Cook shrimp just until opaque to avoid rubbery texture.
Reserve glaze for finishing to keep flavors bold.
Warm tortillas before assembling for better texture.
Add a squeeze of fresh lime just before serving for brightness.
Use a nonstick or well-seasoned pan for easy cleanup.
Serve immediately while shrimp are hot and glossy.
Variations
Add sliced avocado for creaminess.
Use grilled shrimp for a smoky flavor.
Swap honey for maple syrup for a different sweetness.
Add pickled red onions for tangy contrast.
Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a lighter option.
Add shredded carrots to the slaw for extra crunch.
Top with a drizzle of sriracha mayo for extra heat.
Use soft bao-style buns for a fusion twist.
Add mango salsa for a sweet and fresh topping.
Make it vegetarian by using crispy tofu instead of shrimp.
Q & A
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Is gochujang very spicy?
It is mildly spicy with sweetness and depth, not overpowering.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it up to two days in advance and refrigerate.
What tortillas work best?
Both corn and flour tortillas work well.
How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?
Cook quickly over medium-high heat and remove as soon as opaque.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free mayonnaise or skip it.
How long do leftovers last?
Shrimp are best fresh but can be stored for one day refrigerated.
Can I bake the shrimp?
Yes, roast at 220°C (425°F) for 8 to 10 minutes, brushing with glaze.
What sides pair well with these tacos?
Simple rice, cucumber salad, or grilled corn.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, cook shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 360
Protein: 28g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 780mg
Conclusion
Gochujang Honey Glazed Shrimp Tacos are a fast, flavor-packed meal that feels exciting without being complicated. The sweet heat of the glaze, the tenderness of the shrimp, and the crunch of fresh toppings come together beautifully in each taco. Whether you are cooking for family or friends, this recipe delivers bold taste and flexibility. Once you try it, it often becomes a go-to option when you want something quick, modern, and deeply satisfying.