How to Make Chinese Shrimp with Lemon and Soy Sauce
If you're looking for a quick and delicious dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine to your table, this recipe for Chinese Shrimp with Lemon and Soy Sauce is perfect. Not only is it easy to make, but it's also packed with flavor and makes for a fantastic weeknight dinner.
Ingredients Needed
To prepare this dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Chinese Shrimp with Lemon and Soy Sauce:
1. Marinate the Shrimp
Begin by marinating the shrimp. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Add the shrimp to the bowl, ensuring they are thoroughly coated in the marinade. Allow the shrimp to marinate for about 15-20 minutes, which will enhance the flavor.
2. Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough to sizzle when you add the shrimp.
3. Cook the Shrimp
Once the oil is hot, add the marinated shrimp to the skillet. Sear the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are opaque in the center. Avoid overcrowding the skillet; if needed, cook the shrimp in batches.
4. Season and Garnish
Season the shrimp with salt and pepper to taste during the last minute of cooking. Once done, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions for an added burst of flavor and a pop of color.
Serving Suggestions
This Chinese Shrimp with Lemon and Soy Sauce dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it alongside seasonal vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Chinese Shrimp
To ensure your shrimp dish is a success:
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, although frozen shrimp works fine too—just make sure to thaw them completely.
- Don't overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly, and tenderness is key.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice and soy sauce according to your taste preferences.
- Experiment with additional spices or herbs, such as red pepper flakes for heat or fresh cilantro for added brightness.
This recipe for Chinese Shrimp with Lemon and Soy Sauce is not only quick to prepare but also showcases the beautiful balance of flavors characteristic of Chinese cuisine. Enjoy this dish that is sure to impress your family and friends!