How to Make Chinese Shrimp with Garlic and Chili
Chinese cuisine is famous for its delicious balance of flavors, and one dish that exemplifies this is garlic and chili shrimp. This vibrant meal is not only quick to prepare but also packs a punch that will excite your taste buds. Follow this simple recipe to make your own Chinese shrimp with garlic and chili at home.
Ingredients
To create this flavorful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 red chili peppers, sliced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This ensures they will sear beautifully in the pan. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, allowing the flavors to infuse.
2. Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, it’s ready for the shrimp!
3. Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the hot pan in a single layer. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. When cooked, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
4. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sliced chili peppers. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds or until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt. This step is crucial as it infuses the oil with delicious flavors.
5. Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Stir well to coat the shrimp evenly in the sauce. Allow everything to cook together for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld.
6. Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve your Chinese shrimp with garlic and chili over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Dish
Here are some tips to enhance your dish:
- Customize Spice Level: Adjust the number of chili peppers based on your heat preference. For a milder version, remove the seeds.
- Add Vegetables: Consider adding bell peppers or snap peas for added color and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality shrimp will elevate the flavors of your dish.
This Chinese shrimp with garlic and chili recipe is a straightforward yet majestic dish that can be whipped up in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this flavorful meal will surely become a household favorite!