Garlic Shrimp, known in Thailand as Goong Pad Kratiem, is a delicious stir-fried seafood dish featuring succulent shrimp cooked with plenty of fragrant garlic and a savory Thai-style sauce. Popular in Thai restaurants and street food stalls, this dish is loved for its simplicity, quick cooking time, and bold garlic flavor.

With juicy shrimp, crispy golden garlic, and a rich umami seasoning, Garlic Shrimp is a perfect weeknight meal that delivers authentic Thai flavors in less than 20 minutes. Served with steamed jasmine rice, it is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

What Makes Garlic Shrimp Special?

The key to authentic Thai Garlic Shrimp is the generous use of fresh garlic. Some garlic is stir-fried to create a flavorful base, while additional garlic is fried until crispy and used as a garnish.

The natural sweetness of shrimp pairs beautifully with garlic, oyster sauce, and white pepper, creating a dish that is savory, aromatic, and incredibly appetizing.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Shrimp

  • 500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 12–15 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, thinly sliced for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon white pepper
  • 2 tablespoons water or seafood stock

For Garnish

  • Crispy fried garlic
  • Fresh cilantro leaves
  • Cucumber slices
  • Lime wedges

For Serving

  • Steamed jasmine rice
  • Thai-style fried egg (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Clean, peel, and devein the shrimp.

Pat dry with paper towels to help them cook evenly.

Step 2: Fry the Garlic

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or skillet over medium heat.

Add the sliced garlic and fry until golden and crispy.

Remove and drain on paper towels. Set aside for garnish.

Step 3: Create the Garlic Base

Add the remaining oil to the wok.

Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Increase the heat to medium-high.

Add the shrimp and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until they begin turning pink.

Step 5: Add Seasonings

Add:

  • Oyster sauce
  • Light soy sauce
  • Fish sauce
  • Sugar
  • White pepper
  • Water or seafood stock

Stir well to coat the shrimp evenly.

Step 6: Finish Cooking

Continue cooking for 1–2 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked and the sauce lightly coats them.

Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender and juicy.

Step 7: Garnish

Remove from heat.

Sprinkle generously with crispy fried garlic and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Step 8: Serve

Serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice, cucumber slices, and lime wedges.

A crispy Thai fried egg makes an excellent addition.

Chef’s Tips

Use Fresh Shrimp

Fresh shrimp provide the best flavor and texture, but high-quality frozen shrimp work well when properly thawed.

Don't Overcook

Shrimp cook very quickly. Once they turn pink and opaque, they are ready.

Fry Garlic Carefully

Golden garlic adds wonderful flavor, but burnt garlic can make the dish bitter.

High Heat Creates Better Flavor

A hot wok helps develop the slight smokiness found in Thai street-food versions.

Flavor Profile

Garlic Shrimp offers:

  • Sweet and juicy shrimp
  • Rich garlic aroma
  • Savory umami depth
  • Mild sweetness
  • Light peppery warmth
  • Crispy garlic texture

The dish is simple, balanced, and incredibly satisfying.

Nutritional Benefits

Shrimp are an excellent source of:

  • Lean protein
  • Vitamin B12
  • Selenium
  • Iodine
  • Omega-3 fatty acids

Garlic contributes antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds, making this dish both flavorful and nutritious.

Variations

Spicy Garlic Shrimp

Add sliced Thai bird's eye chilies for extra heat and spice.

Garlic Butter Shrimp

Add a small amount of butter at the end for a richer fusion-style version.

Garlic Shrimp with Vegetables

Include broccoli, bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots for a more complete meal.

Garlic Shrimp and Mushrooms

Add oyster mushrooms or shiitake mushrooms for additional texture and umami flavor.

What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp

This dish pairs beautifully with:

  • Steamed jasmine rice
  • Garlic fried rice
  • Thai fried egg
  • Stir-fried vegetables
  • Thai cucumber salad
  • Clear soup
  • Thai iced tea

Final Thoughts

Garlic Shrimp (Goong Pad Kratiem) is one of the easiest and most flavorful Thai seafood dishes you can make at home. Combining juicy shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a savory stir-fry sauce, it delivers authentic Thai taste with minimal ingredients and preparation time.

Whether served as a quick family dinner or as part of a larger Thai feast, Garlic Shrimp is guaranteed to impress with its irresistible aroma, vibrant flavors, and satisfying texture. One bite of the crispy garlic and tender shrimp, and you'll understand why this dish remains a favorite throughout Thailand.