Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the bold flavors of the Philippines! Known for their love of seafood, Filipinos have developed a rich culinary tradition that showcases the country’s abundant marine resources. In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through 18 mouth-watering shrimp recipes that will make you crave for more.
From classic dishes like garlic butter sinigang to innovative fusion creations like grilled shrimp with mango salsa, our list has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to spice up your meal routine, these spicy Filipino shrimp recipes are sure to delight your senses.
Garlic Butter Filipino Shrimp Sinigang
Sinigang is a popular Filipino sour soup that typically features vegetables and proteins cooked in a flavorful tamarind broth. In this recipe, we’ll add a rich garlic butter twist to give it an extra layer of depth and indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tamarind broth (or substitute with tomato sauce and tamarind paste)
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Pour in tamarind broth and water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Coconut Milk Shrimp Adobo
A flavorful twist on the classic Filipino dish, this Spicy Coconut Milk Shrimp Adobo combines succulent shrimp with aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk for a taste experience like no other.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and shrimp; cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the coconut milk mixture over the shrimp and stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Serves: 2-3
Filipino-Style Sweet and Sour Shrimp
A classic Filipino dish that’s both sweet and tangy, this Sweet and Sour Shrimp recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Marinated in a mixture of pineapple juice, vinegar, and spices, the shrimp are then sautéed with onions and bell peppers for added flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, vinegar, garlic, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Remove the shrimp from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Sauté the shrimp with onions and bell peppers until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of salt.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Filipino Shrimp with Mango Salsa
Experience the sweet and savory flavors of the Philippines with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines succulent shrimp with a tangy mango salsa. Perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon calamansi juice (or substitute with lime juice)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, calamansi juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro in a bowl.
5. Serve grilled shrimp with mango salsa spooned over the top. Squeeze lime juice (if using) and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Filipino Shrimp Pancit Canton
Pancit Canton is a popular Filipino noodle dish that combines stir-fried noodles with vegetables and your choice of protein. This recipe adds succulent shrimp to the mix for an added layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice flour noodles (Canton-style)
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., cabbage, carrots, bell peppers)
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked.
5. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked noodles with the vegetable-shrimp mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Okra in Filipino Gata
Experience the rich flavors of the Philippines with this simple and savory dish that combines succulent shrimp, tender okra, and creamy coconut milk. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup okra, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and onion; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add okra; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Add shrimp; cook until pink and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk; stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Filipino Shrimp Lumpia with Sweet Chili Sauce
This recipe combines the classic Filipino spring roll (lumpia) with succulent shrimp and a sweet and spicy chili sauce. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of lumpia wrappers (spring roll wrappers)
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sweet Chili Sauce (recipe below)
Lumpia Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
5. Lay a lumpia wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the shrimp mixture in the center of the wrapper.
6. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a neat lumpia. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
Sweet Chili Sauce:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
Cooking Time: Lumpias take about 10-12 minutes to cook, or until crispy. Sweet Chili Sauce is ready to use immediately.
Spicy Filipino Shrimp Kare-Kare
Kare-kare is a popular Filipino peanut-based stew that’s typically made with ox tripe, vegetables, and ground rice. In this recipe, we give it a spicy twist by adding succulent shrimp and a blend of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Stir in cumin, cayenne pepper, and peanut butter. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add water, fish sauce (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Garnish with green onions. Serve over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Filipino Shrimp Sinigang sa Miso
Sinigang sa miso is a unique and flavorful Filipino dish that combines the sweetness of shrimp with the tanginess of tamarind broth. This recipe adds a twist by incorporating white miso paste, which creates a creamy and umami-rich sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup tamarind broth (sinigang mix)
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh vegetables (such as tomatoes, bok choy, or long beans) for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, tamarind broth, and miso paste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
2. Add onion and garlic; simmer for 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add shrimp and fish sauce (if using). Simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh vegetables.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Filipino Shrimp and Pineapple Curry
Savor the sweet and spicy flavors of the Philippines with this easy-to-make shrimp and pineapple curry recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups pineapple chunks
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 cups water
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, curry powder, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Add pineapple, fish sauce (if using), coconut milk, and water; stir to combine.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Filipino Shrimp in Tomato Sauce with Peas
This classic Filipino dish is a flavorful and nutritious meal that combines succulent shrimp, plump peas, and tangy tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add diced tomatoes, peas, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Stir in tomato paste and water; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low; let sauce thicken for 5-7 minutes.
7. Serve shrimp with sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Filipino Shrimp and Taro Leaves in Coconut Milk
Experience the flavors of the Philippines with this simple and delicious recipe that combines succulent shrimp, tender taro leaves, and rich coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups taro leaves (or substitute with spinach or kale)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
4. Add taro leaves (or substitute) to the pan and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and add cooked shrimp back into the pan.
6. Season with fish sauce (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Filipino Shrimp and Squash Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines succulent shrimp with the sweetness of squash, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium-sized yellow squash, diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 4 cups fish broth
– 1 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and squash; cook for 3-4 minutes or until squash starts to soften.
3. Add shrimp and fish broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Filipino Shrimp Kinilaw with Coconut Vinegar
Kinilaw is a traditional Filipino dish that’s perfect for hot summer days. This recipe combines succulent shrimp, coconut vinegar, and spices to create a refreshing and flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup coconut vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh green mango
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, coconut vinegar, green mango, fish sauce, lime juice, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the garlic and mix until combined.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in cilantro (if using).
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional green mango slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Filipino Shrimp and Bitter Melon Stir-Fry
This classic Filipino dish combines succulent shrimp with the unique flavor of bitter melon, a popular vegetable in Southeast Asian cuisine. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium bitter melons, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper to the pan and stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the bitter melon strips and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
5. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir-fry everything together for about 30 seconds.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Filipino Shrimp and Eggplant in Oyster Sauce
Experience the bold and savory flavors of Filipino cuisine with this easy-to-make dish. This recipe combines succulent shrimp, tender eggplant, and rich oyster sauce for a truly delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup oyster sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the eggplant slices and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the eggplant from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the garlic and shrimp. Cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the oyster sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked eggplant back into the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Filipino Shrimp and String Beans in Coconut Milk
This classic Filipino dish is a flavorful combination of succulent shrimp, tender string beans, and creamy coconut milk. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup fresh string beans (sitaw), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Heat cooking oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add string beans, ginger, and garlic. Cook until beans are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine with bean mixture.
6. Add cooked shrimp back into the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Filipino Shrimp and Sweet Potato Stew
This hearty stew is a staple in Filipino cuisine, perfect for a comforting meal any time of the year. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the succulent shrimp, making this dish a must-try.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 cup fish sauce (patis)
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, shrimp, and sweet potatoes; cook for 5 minutes.
4. Pour in fish sauce and water; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these mouth-watering Filipino shrimp recipes! From classic dishes like Sinigang and Adobo, to innovative twists like Sweet and Sour Shrimp and Mango Salsa, there’s something for every taste bud. Explore a range of flavors, from creamy coconut milk to tangy tomato sauce, and discover the perfect blend of spices and seasonings. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these 18 spicy Filipino shrimp recipes are sure to delight!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
