How to Cook Chinese Shrimp with Hot Garlic Sauce
Cooking Chinese shrimp with hot garlic sauce is a delightful way to elevate your dinner experience. This dish tantalizes the taste buds with its spicy and aromatic flavors, perfect for seafood lovers. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing this delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 5 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-2 tablespoons of chili paste (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch (for thickening)
- 1/2 cup of bell peppers, sliced
- 1/2 cup of green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
Begin by marinating the shrimp for about 15-20 minutes. In a bowl, combine the shrimp with a pinch of salt, pepper, and half of the minced garlic. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the shrimp, enhancing the overall dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the chili paste, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and cornstarch with a little water until the sugar and cornstarch are dissolved. Set this sauce mixture aside, as it will be added later.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the remaining minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Step 4: Add the Shrimp
Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start turning pink. Ensure the shrimp are evenly cooked, as they cook quickly.
Step 5: Incorporate Vegetables
Next, add the sliced bell peppers and continue to stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes. This will add color and crunch to your dish.
Step 6: Combine with Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and vegetables. Stir everything together, allowing the shrimp to simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 7: Final Touches
Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, toss in the chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Mix well and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chinese shrimp with hot garlic sauce over a bed of steamed rice or alongside stir-fried noodles for a complete meal. Garnishing with additional green onions or sesame seeds will add an extra layer of flavor and presentation.
Conclusion
Cooking Chinese shrimp with hot garlic sauce is not only simple but also a satisfying way to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home. With its vibrant flavors and quick preparation, it's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Enjoy your culinary adventure!