Bourbon-Glazed Shrimp Skewers Perfect Pairings and Recipes for a Memorable Meal

When it comes to grilling, A few dishes can rival the irresistible combination of shrimp and bourbon. The sweet and smoky flavors of bourbon-glazed shrimp skewers not only tantalize the taste buds but also create a stunning visual presentation. Ideal for backyard barbecues, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home, this dish can easily elevate any occasion. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through making these delicious skewers, suggest perfect side dishes, and recommend a drink that pairs seamlessly with this meal.

Bourbon-glazed shrimp skewers sizzling on the grill

The Magic of Bourbon-Glazed Shrimp

Bourbon-glazed shrimp skewers present an exciting balance of flavors. The marinade combines garlic, brown sugar, and a splash of bourbon to create a sweet and savory glaze that caramelizes beautifully during grilling. Adding colorful vegetables like red onion and bell peppers not only enhances the dish's appearance but also enriches its flavor profile.

This recipe shines through its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that tastes gourmet. For instance, shrimp cooks rapidly, typically requiring only about 5 minutes on the grill. This is perfect for a weeknight dinner or spontaneous gathering, allowing you to serve great food quickly.

Fresh vegetables ready for skewering with shrimp

Ingredients for Bourbon-Glazed Shrimp Skewers

For the Shrimp Marinade:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1/4 cup bourbon

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

  
  

For the Skewers:

• 1 red onion, cut into chunks

• 1 bell pepper (any color), cut into chunks

• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling)

  
  

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Start by making the marinade. In a bowl, mix the bourbon, brown sugar, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients until the sugar dissolves. Then, add the shrimp to the marinade, ensuring they are coated well. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Skewers

While the shrimp marinates, prepare the vegetables. Cut the red onion and bell pepper into chunks that are similar in size to the shrimp for even cooking. Aim for pieces about 1-1.5 inches for balanced skewers.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Once the shrimp has marinated, assemble the skewers. Thread the shrimp, red onion, and bell pepper onto the skewers, alternating between each. This technique not only creates an attractive presentation but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully during grilling.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn opaque and the vegetables are tender. Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become rubbery if grilled too long.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

After grilling, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute. Serve the bourbon-glazed shrimp skewers hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra pop of flavor and color.

A beautifully plated dish of bourbon-glazed shrimp skewers with sides.

Ideal Side Dishes

To complement your bourbon-glazed shrimp skewers, consider serving them with these flavorful sides:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is a classic summer side that pairs perfectly with shrimp. Brush the corn with butter, sprinkle with salt, and grill until it has distinct char marks. According to the USDA, corn is about 13% sugar, making its natural sweetness a perfect counterbalance to the savory flavors of the shrimp.

2. Garlic Butter Rice

A light garlic butter rice is another excellent side. Cook your rice normally, then toss it with melted butter, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of parsley. This dish is not only delicious but also takes about 20 minutes to prepare, making it easy to whip up alongside the skewers.

Refreshing Drink Pairing

To elevate your meal, consider pairing your bourbon-glazed shrimp skewers with a classic Mojito. This cocktail’s minty freshness and tangy citrus perfectly complement the sweetness of the bourbon glaze.

Mojito Recipe

Ingredients:

• 10 fresh mint leaves

• 1/2 lime, cut into wedges

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 cup ice

• 1 1/2 ounces white rum

• 1/2 cup club soda

  
  

Instructions:

1. Muddle the mint leaves and lime wedges with sugar in a glass to release the mint oils and lime juice.

2. Fill the glass with ice, then add the rum and top off with club soda.

3. Stir gently and garnish with a sprig of mint for a refreshing touch.

   
   

Final Thoughts on a Delicious Dish

Bourbon-glazed shrimp skewers are a simple yet impressive dish that can make any gathering memorable. Paired with the right sides and a refreshing drink, this meal is sure to please everyone at the table. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this summer favorite!

Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or planning a special dinner, these skewers will be a hit. Happy grilling!