Introduction
Kung Pao Shrimp is a spicy and flavorful dish that originates from the Sichuan province of China. It is a popular dish in Chinese restaurants worldwide, and for good reason. The dish is a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors, and the addition of peanuts adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. In this blog post, we will teach you how to make this delicious dish in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need:
- 500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup unsalted peanuts
- 6 dried red chilies
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the shrimp with cornstarch, soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine. Set aside.
- In a wok or large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over high heat. Add the peanuts and stir-fry until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- In the same wok, add the dried red chilies, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 30 seconds or until fragrant.
- Add the onion and red bell pepper and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until slightly softened.
- Add the shrimp mixture and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
- Add the peanuts and green onions and stir-fry for another 30 seconds.
- Serve hot with steamed rice.
Variations
If you want to make this dish vegetarian or vegan, you can replace the shrimp with tofu or seitan. You can also add more vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots to make it even more nutritious.
Conclusion
Kung Pao Shrimp is a classic Chinese dish that will impress your family and friends. It is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. Whether you like it extra spicy or prefer a milder version, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead and give it a try!
FAQ
What is Kung Pao Shrimp?
Kung Pao Shrimp is a spicy Chinese dish that typically consists of marinated shrimp, peanuts, vegetables, and a hot and sour sauce.
What ingredients do I need for Kung Pao Shrimp?
For Kung Pao Shrimp, you will need shrimp, peanuts, vegetables (such as bell peppers and zucchini), soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, and dried chili peppers.
Can I use chicken instead of shrimp?
Yes, you can use chicken instead of shrimp to make Kung Pao Chicken. Simply substitute the shrimp with diced chicken breast and follow the same recipe.
How spicy is Kung Pao Shrimp?
Kung Pao Shrimp is typically a spicy dish, but the level of heat can be adjusted based on your preferences. You can reduce the amount of chili peppers or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.
How do I devein shrimp?
To devein shrimp, use a sharp knife or kitchen shears to make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp. Use a toothpick or the tip of the knife to remove the vein.
Can I use frozen shrimp for Kung Pao Shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for Kung Pao Shrimp. Thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight before using them in the recipe.
Can I make Kung Pao Shrimp ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Kung Pao Shrimp ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Store the cooked dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What should I serve with Kung Pao Shrimp?
Kung Pao Shrimp pairs well with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables, such as bok choy or broccoli.
How do I make Kung Pao Shrimp less salty?
To make Kung Pao Shrimp less salty, reduce the amount of soy sauce or use a low-sodium soy sauce. You can also add a little more rice vinegar or sugar to balance out the flavors.
Can I use a wok to cook Kung Pao Shrimp?
Yes, you can use a wok to cook Kung Pao Shrimp. A wok is ideal for stir-frying and will help the ingredients cook evenly.
