Caramelized Skillet Shrimp

1. Season the shrimp

Toss the shrimp with salt, pepper, and sugar. Make sure every shrimp is evenly coated.

2. Heat the oil

Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a 12-inch skillet over high heat until it just begins to smoke.

3. Cook the first batch of shrimp

Add half of the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Spread them out in a single layer and let them cook undisturbed for about a minute until spotty brown edges and pink sides appear. Using tongs, flip the shrimp and immediately remove the skillet from the heat. Allow the shrimp to cook for another 30 seconds off the heat.

4. Cook the second batch of shrimp

Repeat the process with the remaining tablespoon of oil and the rest of the shrimp, following the same steps to ensure even cooking.

5. Finish cooking the shrimp

Return all the shrimp to the skillet. Cover the skillet and let it sit off the heat for 1 to 2 minutes to finish cooking through.