2 cloves garlic
2.2 or so tbsp butter or enough to mostly fill the bottom of the pan, with about half that again reserved
12 medium shrimp per serving or so
Rain vodka or similarly good vodka
a little white sugar, just a pinch
pearl onions
Medium pan, just big enough to have the bottom covered by the shrimp

Shell shrimp, but do not butterfly. Tail can be discarded depending on taste. DO devein.

Crush then rough cut the garlic. this step is important, as if you cut it too fine, it will simply burn.

Peel and quarter pearl onions, add half butter to pan. Preheat until bubbling and add garlic. Keep in motion, as the garlic browns. Don't brown it too heavily.

Add shrimp, making sure that one side and one side only of each shrimp is in contact with the pan. Add butter over them, as much of the butter will have burned off.

The shrimp will begin to curl, wait until the "top" or side facing you is less translucent, or the pink is slightly more than half way up. About 5/8ths if you want to get clunky about it.

Turn the shrimp. The onions should be getting fairly browned, take a moment to move them around and shift them.

Throw a pinch of white sugar over the shrimp, just enough to VERY lightly dust them.

Allow the shrimp to cook for about 20-30 seconds more, then add about a shot of vodka, more depending on how much you like fire and how well done you like your shrimp. You have to ignite it IMMEDIATELY. This is the difficult part. Keep the shrimp in motion by flicking the pan with your wrist. When the fire peters out, serve onto plates.

If you're feeling really stupid and adventurous, there's supposedly a way to light the vodka THEN pour it. If you find out, tell me, but please don't die. Also, if you want a spicier meal, you can marinate a habanero in the vodka, then either dice it and cook it, or use it as garnish. The active chemicals should leech into the vodka and will probably survive being burned. I haven't tested that yet, so it might just be best to simply add the habanero with the onions and use only a smidge.