Barbecued split shrimps

Barbecued split shrimps are a tasty dish featuring shrimp marinated in a tangy mix of sugar, vinegar, and lime juice with a hint of spice from red hot chili peppers. Ideal for outdoor grilling, they are quick to prepare and sure to delight guests.

23 Jan 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

32 oz shrimps
1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup vinegar
1 tsp fish sauce
1/3 cup lime juice
2 red hot chili peppers

Barbecued split shrimps are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines fresh shrimp with a tangy and slightly spicy marinade. The combination of sugar, vinegar, lime juice, fish sauce, and red hot chili peppers creates a flavorful coating that beautifully complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar, vinegar, fish sauce, and lime juice. Whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved.

2. Add the Heat:
- Add the finely chopped red hot chili peppers to the marinade. Stir well to ensure they are evenly distributed.

3. Marinate the Shrimps:
- Place the split shrimps in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the shrimps, making sure they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour. The longer the shrimps marinate, the more flavorful they will be.

4. Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your barbecue grill to medium-high heat.

5. Grill the Shrimps:
- Remove the shrimps from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the marinade to avoid cross-contamination.
- Arrange the shrimps on the grill, shell side down if you left the shells on. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimps turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook to keep them tender and juicy.

6. Serve:
- Transfer the grilled shrimps to a serving platter. You can garnish with additional lime slices or chopped cilantro if desired.

7. Enjoy:
- Serve hot as an appetizer or main dish. These barbecued split shrimps pair well with a fresh salad, steamed rice, or grilled vegetables.

With these simple steps and minimal ingredients, barbecuing split shrimps can become your new go-to recipe for any occasion. The tangy and spicy marinade enhances the shrimp's natural flavors and will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy your delicious barbecued split shrimps with friends and family!

Barbecued split shrimps FAQ:

What is the grilling time for split shrimps?

Grill the split shrimps for 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque when fully cooked. Be careful not to overcook them to keep the shrimp tender and juicy.

Can I substitute other types of seafood for shrimp in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute shrimp with other seafood like scallops or fish fillets, but cooking times may vary. Ensure that the substituted seafood is cooked thoroughly.

How long can I marinate the shrimp?

You can marinate the shrimp for 30 minutes to 1 hour for the best flavor. Marinating longer than this can lead to a mushy texture due to the acidity in the marinade.

What should I do with leftover marinated shrimp?

Leftover marinated shrimp should be cooked immediately to ensure food safety. Do not reuse the marinade to avoid cross-contamination.

How do I know when the shrimps are done grilling?

Shrimps are done when they turn pink and opaque throughout. A more precise way is to check that they reach an internal temperature of 120°F (49°C).

Tips:

- Ensure the shrimp are fresh or properly thawed if frozen to achieve the best taste and texture.

- Marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using them to prevent burning on the grill.

- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat to ensure even cooking and achieve a nice char.

- Don't overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and only need about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.

- Brush the shrimp with any remaining marinade while grilling for an extra burst of flavor.

- For a twist, you can add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the marinade.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 170kcal
Protein 20g
Carbohydrates 16g
Fiber 0.25g
Sugar 14g
Fat 1.64g

Barbecued split shrimps