Looking to take your summer barbecue from standard to sensational? This savory, whisky-infused barbecue shrimp recipe is the perfect way to add a high-energy and delicious twist to your cookout. The whisky-enriched marinade adds a unique, sweet and smoky flavor that perfectly caramelizes on the grill, while using shrimp as the protein keeps the dish on the lighter side. Paired with fresh summer sides, it's a fantastic and easy-to-make dinner.
Yields: 4 servings Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (includes marinating) Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
Ingredients:
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1 lb. large shrimp (about 16-20 count), peeled and deveined, tails left on
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¼ cup Crown Royal Canadian Whisky (or your favorite Canadian or bourbon whisky)
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¼ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
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¼ cup honey
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¼ tsp. black pepper
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⅛ tsp. garlic powder (or garlic pepper)
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Wooden or metal skewers
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the Crown Royal whisky, BBQ sauce, honey, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
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Marinate the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss gently to ensure every piece is fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least one hour. Do not marinate for more than two hours, as the acid can begin to "cook" the shrimp and make it tough.
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Skewer the Shrimp: If using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent them from burning on the grill. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, running the skewer through both the top and the tail of each shrimp to keep them from spinning.
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Grill the Shrimp: Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. Place the shrimp skewers directly on the clean, oiled grates.
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Cook to Perfection: Grill for approximately 2-3 minutes per side. The shrimp will cook very quickly. They are done when they turn pink and opaque and are firm to the touch. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.
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Serve Immediately: Remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately. They are fantastic on their own or paired with grilled corn and a fresh tomato salad.
Expert Tips for Perfect Grilled Shrimp:
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Use Skewers: Skewering the shrimp is the easiest way to handle them on the grill. It prevents the individual shrimp from falling through the grates and makes flipping them a breeze.
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Don't Over-Marinate: The acid in some marinades can break down the delicate shrimp meat. One hour is the perfect amount of time for the flavor to penetrate without affecting the texture.
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Watch Them Closely: Shrimp cook in a matter of minutes. Stay by the grill and watch for them to turn from translucent to a beautiful pink and opaque color.
This whisky-infused barbecue shrimp recipe is a simple yet incredibly flavorful way to elevate your summer grilling. The unique, sweet-and-smoky flavor of the marinade perfectly complements the fresh shrimp, creating a high-energy dish that is sure to be a hit at your next cookout.
