Zesty Clementine Pepper Shrimp Stir-Fry: A Sweet and Savory Delight
This vibrant Citrus Pepper Shrimp dish offers a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors, thanks to its unique sauce made from soy sauce, fresh clementine juice, and rich maple syrup. Elevated with perfectly sautéed bell peppers and crisp red onions, this recipe promises a meal that’s both deeply satisfying and incredibly refreshing. It’s an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a stunning appetizer for entertaining, guaranteed to impress with its bright, balanced taste.
Why This Clementine Pepper Shrimp Recipe is a Must-Try
This Citrus Pepper Shrimp recipe isn’t just another shrimp dish; it’s a vibrant celebration of flavors that come together seamlessly for an unforgettable meal. The secret lies in the refreshing brightness of clementines, which offer a sweeter, less acidic alternative to traditional lemon-pepper seasonings. This creates a beautifully balanced sauce that is both sweet and savory, thanks to the harmonious blend of soy sauce for umami depth, maple syrup for natural sweetness, and a subtle kick from cayenne and black pepper.
Unlike its more tart counterparts, our clementine-infused sauce provides a mellow citrus note that perfectly complements the succulent shrimp. This recipe excels in its ability to deliver complex flavors with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something extraordinary but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The stir-frying method ensures the shrimp cooks quickly to tender perfection, while the bell peppers and red onions add a delightful crunch and extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
Furthermore, the versatility of this dish is truly remarkable. Whether you prefer it as a standalone entrée, served over a fluffy bed of jasmine rice, tucked into soft tortillas for a unique taco experience, or even as a refreshing shrimp salad, it adapts beautifully to various serving styles. It’s also a fantastic option for meal prepping, as the flavors only deepen with time. Expect rave reviews and virtually no leftovers – it’s that good!
Essential Ingredients for Citrus Pepper Shrimp
To whip up this incredible Citrus Pepper Shrimp, you’ll need a selection of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Here’s a detailed list to ensure you have everything on hand, along with approximate quantities. For precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card at the very end of this post.
- 7 Clementines (divided): These small, sweet citrus fruits are the star of our dish, providing both zest for the sauce and juicy wedges for garnish and flavor infusion.
- 3 Tablespoons Olive Oil (divided): Used for seasoning the shrimp and stir-frying the vegetables to perfection. A good quality olive oil enhances the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and a subtle spicy kick. Adjust to your preferred level of heat.
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper: Provides a classic peppery punch, complementing the citrus and savory notes. Freshly ground is always best.
- 1 Tablespoon Garlic Salt: A convenient blend that delivers both pungent garlic flavor and essential seasoning for the shrimp.
- 1 pound Medium Shrimp (shelled, deveined, tails removed): The primary protein. Medium-sized shrimp cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully. Ensure they are properly prepped for best results.
- ½ cup Maple Syrup: Contributes a rich, natural sweetness to the sauce, balancing the tang of the clementines and the saltiness of the soy sauce. Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
- 1 cup Water: Helps to thin the sauce to the right consistency and aids in simmering the clementines for maximum flavor extraction.
- ¼ cup Soy Sauce: Adds a crucial umami depth and savory foundation to the sauce. Opt for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
- 2 Tablespoons Clementine Zest: Packed with aromatic oils, the zest provides a concentrated burst of citrus flavor to the sauce.
- 1 Small Red Onion: Adds a sweet and pungent flavor, along with a beautiful pop of color when stir-fried.
- 1 Medium Green Bell Pepper: Offers a slightly bitter, fresh crunch that contrasts nicely with the sweeter elements.
- 1 Medium Yellow Bell Pepper: Brings a sweeter, milder pepper flavor and brightens the visual appeal of the dish.
- 1 Medium Red Bell Pepper: The sweetest of the bell peppers, contributing vibrant color and a juicy texture.
Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions
Understanding your ingredients and knowing when and how to substitute can elevate your cooking experience and adapt recipes to your pantry or dietary needs. Here’s a closer look at the key components of our Citrus Pepper Shrimp:
SHRIMP: We call for 1 pound of medium shrimp, ideally shelled, deveined, and with tails removed for ease of eating. You have flexibility here; fresh or frozen raw shrimp both work wonderfully. If opting for frozen, the crucial step is to allow them to thaw completely before cooking. This can be done overnight in the refrigerator or more quickly by running them under cold water. Once thawed, always pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This ensures that the seasoning adheres properly and allows the shrimp to sear beautifully, rather than steam.
CITRUS: Clementines are the star of our citrus profile due to their delightful sweetness and ease of peeling and zesting, which contributes to a less acidic yet incredibly bright sauce. If clementines aren’t available, tangerines or mandarin oranges make excellent substitutes, offering a similar sweet and mild citrus flavor. Regular oranges, while still citrus, tend to be more acidic and less sweet, which would alter the delicate balance of this particular sauce. If using any substitute, taste and adjust the maple syrup or soy sauce as needed.
SAUCE BASICS: The combination of maple syrup and soy sauce creates the unique sweet-and-savory foundation. Always use pure maple syrup for its distinct flavor; pancake syrup is not a suitable replacement. For soy sauce, a low-sodium variety is recommended to better control the saltiness, allowing the other flavors to shine. If you need a gluten-free option, tamari is a perfect substitute for soy sauce.
PEPPER POWER: Cayenne pepper adds a customizable level of heat. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount or omit it entirely. For more heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes could also be added. Black pepper provides a classic aromatic warmth, and freshly ground will always deliver the most intense flavor. Garlic salt is a convenient way to infuse garlic flavor and seasoning, but you could also use garlic powder and a bit of sea salt separately.
VEGETABLES: This recipe utilizes a colorful mix of red onion and green, yellow, and red bell peppers. These vegetables are chosen for their contrasting flavors, textures, and vibrant appearance, which make the dish appealing. When stir-frying, they become tender-crisp, offering a satisfying bite. Feel free to experiment with other stir-fry friendly vegetables like snow peas, thinly sliced carrots, broccoli florets, or even mushrooms to customize your dish and add more nutrients.
OIL: Olive oil is used for its flavor and properties in both seasoning and stir-frying. For high-heat stir-frying, oils with a higher smoke point like avocado oil, grapeseed oil, or even vegetable oil can also be used effectively, ensuring your ingredients cook without burning.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Citrus Pepper Shrimp
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this delicious recipe. For a concise, printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and instructions, simply jump to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Prepare the Clementines: Begin by carefully zesting four of your clementines. You’ll need 2 tablespoons of this aromatic zest for the sauce, so ensure you get a good amount. After zesting, peel all seven clementines. Cut three of them into small, bite-sized wedges and set these aside; they will be added at the end for fresh bursts of citrus. The remaining four whole, peeled clementines will be used to infuse the sauce during simmering.
- Create the Shrimp Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil with ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of garlic salt. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to form a paste-like seasoning blend. This mixture will coat your shrimp, providing a savory and slightly spicy base flavor.
- Season the Shrimp: Place your peeled, deveined, and dried shrimp in a bowl. Using gloved hands (this helps distribute the seasoning evenly and prevents skin irritation from the cayenne), toss the shrimp with the seasoning mix until each piece is completely coated. Ensure every shrimp is well-covered to maximize flavor.
- Prepare the Clementine Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine ½ cup of maple syrup, 1 cup of water, ¼ cup of soy sauce, the 2 tablespoons of reserved clementine zest, and the 4 whole, peeled clementines. The whole clementines will slowly release their sweet and tangy juices into the sauce as it cooks, creating a deeper, more complex citrus profile.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce ingredients to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to gently simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens and the flavors have fully melded. This simmering time is crucial for developing the rich clementine essence.
- Prepare and Oil the Vegetables: While the sauce simmers, dice your small red onion, green bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red bell pepper into uniform, bite-sized chunks. Place them in a bowl and toss them with the remaining 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil. Ensure all vegetables are lightly coated, which helps them cook evenly and prevents sticking in the wok.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Preheat a wok or a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat until it’s very hot. Add the oiled vegetables to the preheated wok. Stir-fry constantly for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. You’re looking for a slight char or browning on their skins, indicating they’re developing a delicious caramelized flavor while still retaining a bit of crunch.
- Add and Cook the Shrimp: Now, add the seasoned shrimp to the wok with the vegetables. Continue to stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes. Shrimp cooks very quickly, so watch them closely. They are done when they turn opaque and pink. Be careful not to overcook them, as this can make them tough and rubbery.
- Finish with the Sauce: Carefully strain the sauce from the saucepan to remove the softened clementines. This ensures a smooth, refined sauce while retaining all the wonderful citrus flavor. Pour the strained sauce over the shrimp and vegetables in the wok. Stir gently to coat everything evenly and heat through for about 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Finally, stir in the reserved clementine wedges from step 1 just before serving for a fresh pop of citrus.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Success
Absolutely, using frozen shrimp is perfectly fine and often more convenient! The key is to ensure they are fully thawed before you begin the cooking process. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or, for a quicker method, place them in a colander and run cold water over them until they are no longer frozen. Once thawed, it is crucial to thoroughly pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is vital as it allows the seasoning to adhere properly and promotes a good sear when cooking, preventing the shrimp from steaming instead of stir-frying.
If you desire a thicker sauce that clings more to the shrimp and vegetables, you can easily achieve this with a cornstarch slurry. After straining the sauce and adding it back to the wok (as per step 9 of the instructions), create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the simmering sauce in the wok, stirring constantly. Allow it to cook for another minute or two until it reaches your desired thickness. Remove the wok from the heat and let it sit for 5-6 minutes; the sauce will continue to thicken slightly as it cools. Stir again before serving.
Leftover Citrus Pepper Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. For best flavor and texture, it’s advisable to consume them within this timeframe. To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a pan over low-medium heat on the stovetop. Avoid high heat, as this can easily overcook the shrimp and make them rubbery. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between, until just warmed through.
Yes, the spice level is easily customizable! If you prefer a milder dish, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper to ½ teaspoon or even a pinch. For those who love a fiery kick, you can increase the cayenne pepper to 1 teaspoon or more, or add a dash of red pepper flakes along with the other shrimp seasonings.
No wok? No problem! A large, heavy-bottomed skillet or a cast-iron pan will work perfectly well for stir-frying your vegetables and shrimp. The key is to ensure your pan is preheated to high heat before adding ingredients to achieve that desirable tender-crisp texture for the vegetables and a quick, even cook for the shrimp.
Creative Ways to Serve Your Citrus Pepper Shrimp
This versatile Citrus Pepper Shrimp dish is incredibly adaptable, making it perfect for various meals and occasions. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to inspire you:
- Classic Rice Bowl: Serve it over a generous bed of warm jasmine rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a wholesome and satisfying dinner. The rice soaks up the delicious sauce, making every bite flavorful.
- Light & Fresh: For a lighter meal, enjoy the shrimp and vegetables as-is, perhaps with a simple side salad. It’s naturally flavorful and fulfilling without being heavy.
- Taco Tuesday Reinvented: Turn this dish into vibrant shrimp tacos! Spoon the citrus pepper shrimp mixture into soft tortillas (corn or flour) and add your favorite toppings like shredded cabbage, a drizzle of crema, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
- Pasta Perfection: Toss the cooked shrimp and vegetables with your favorite pasta – think linguine, spaghetti, or even rice noodles – for a quick and flavorful pasta dish. A little extra sauce can bring it all together.
- Appetizer Skewers: Thread the cooked shrimp and bell pepper pieces onto small skewers for an elegant and easy-to-eat appetizer, perfect for parties and gatherings.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve the shrimp and veggie mix in crisp lettuce cups, such as butter lettuce or romaine.
- Garnish & Extra Flair: Finish your dish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and nutty flavor. Fresh chopped cilantro or green onions can also add a burst of freshness and color. A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving can further brighten the flavors.
Discover More Delicious Shrimp Recipes
If you loved this Citrus Pepper Shrimp, you’re in for a treat! Shrimp is an incredibly versatile protein, perfect for quick and flavorful meals. Explore more of our favorite shrimp creations:
- Crispy Shrimp
- Butterfly Shrimp
- Popcorn Shrimp
- Blackened Shrimp
- Honey Walnut Shrimp
- Kung Pao Shrimp
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Citrus Pepper Shrimp
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 7 clementines divided
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil divided
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 Tablespoon garlic salt
- 1 pound medium shrimp shelled, deveined, tails removed
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 1 cup water
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 Tablespoons clementine zest
- 1 small red onion
- 1 medium green bell pepper
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper
- 1 medium red bell pepper
Things You’ll Need
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Wok
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Saucepan
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Vinyl gloves
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Fine mesh strainer
Before You Begin
- For a thicker sauce, you can sprinkle in a tablespoon of cornstarch, stir then allow wok to sit, heat off, for 5-6 minutes. Stir again then serve.
- Fresh or frozen raw shrimp can be used in this recipe. If using frozen, allow them to thaw completely and pat them dry before beginning.
Instructions
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Zest and peel clementines. Reserve 2 Tablespoons of clementine zest to use in the sauce. Cut 3 of the clementines into wedges and set aside.
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To make shrimp seasoning, in a small bowl combine 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and garlic salt.
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Using gloved hands, toss seasoning mix with the shrimp until completely coated.
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To make the sauce, in a medium saucepan combine maple syrup, water, soy sauce, zest and 4 whole, peeled clementines.
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Bring sauce ingredients to a boil over medium high then reduce to low and simmer.
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Cut red onion and bell peppers into bite sized chunks. Toss with remaining olive oil.
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Preheat wok over high heat. Add oiled vegetables to the wok and stir fry until tender crisp, about 3-4 minutes. You want the skins of the vegetables to brown a bit.
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Add seasoned shrimp to the vegetables in the wok. Stir fry for 2-3 minutes.
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Strain sauce to remove clementines. Add strained sauce to the wok and heat through.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.