1-First Step: Mix the shrimp coating In a medium bowl, combine 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Stir until the cornstarch starts to dissolve, then add the 450g (1 lb) shrimp, peeled and deveined. Toss the shrimp until each piece is lightly coated. Let it sit while you prep the pan. This quick coating helps the shrimp hold onto the sauce later and gives the finished dish a better texture.

2-Second Step: Prep the aromatics Finely mince or grate the 3 to 4 cloves garlic and 1 tablespoon fresh ginger. If you like a little heat, measure out the 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes now too. Having everything ready matters because garlic can burn fast, especially in a hot pan. Fresh garlic and ginger are worth the tiny bit of effort because they give the dish a much brighter and fresher taste.

3-Third Step: Heat the pan Set a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the 2 tablespoons vegetable oil. Let the oil heat until it shimmers, but do not smoke it. Add the garlic and ginger, then cook for about 30 seconds, stirring the whole time. You want them fragrant, not browned. This short step wakes up the flavors and sets the tone for the rest of the dish.

4-Fourth Step: Cook the shrimp Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook another 1 to 2 minutes on the other side. The shrimp should turn pink, curl into a loose C shape, and look opaque. Do not cook them too long or they can turn rubbery. If your shrimp are a little larger, give them another 30 seconds, but keep an eye on them. This is one of those recipes where a minute too long can make a difference.

5-Fifth Step: Add the honey glaze Pour in the 4 tablespoons honey and sprinkle in the chili flakes if you are using them. Toss everything quickly so the shrimp get coated in the glossy sauce. The honey will loosen as it heats, then cling to the shrimp as the pan bubbles for a moment. This step is where the dish gets its sweet and savory shine, so keep stirring until everything looks evenly coated.

6-Final Step: Finish and serve Take the pan off the heat as soon as the shrimp are done. Slice the 2 green onions and scatter them over the top for color and freshness. Serve the shrimp over rice, spooned into a bowl with vegetables, or as a starter for a bigger meal. If you want another shrimp dinner to rotate into your weekly menu, check out our shrimp kabobs recipe.