Bring a pot of water to a boil for the pasta.
Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet with tight-fitting lid. Add shallots, garlic, chili flakes and fennel seed, and stir 2-3 minutes. Add sherry or vermouth and reduce by half; add stock and cherry tomatoes and heat through. Add shrimp and cover pan. Cook 7-8 minutes, shaking pan occasionally.