Today, I’m excited to share with you a recipe that will satisfy your cravings for bold flavors and succulent shrimp: Shrimp in Garlic Sauce. As an experienced chef and passionate food blogger, I can’t wait to introduce you to this mouthwatering dish that showcases the irresistible combination of plump shrimp and aromatic garlic. Get ready to indulge in a flavor-packed experience that will leave you wanting more!
Chinese Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
Equipment
- 1 wok
- 1 small bowl
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 10 cloves garlic chopped
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger root
- 1 8- ounce can sliced water chestnuts drained
- 1 cup snow peas
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 red bell pepper chopped
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 pound fresh medium shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons dry sherry
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Heat oil in wok over high heat. Add garlic and ginger root and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add water chestnuts, snow peas, broccoli, bell pepper, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and shrimp to the pan. Cook, stirring, until shrimp turns pink, about 2 minutes.
- Combine the chicken broth, rice vinegar, fish sauce, and dry sherry in a small bowl. Mix well and pour into the shrimp mixture; stir to combine.
- Combine cornstarch and water and stir into the wok. Cook and stir until sauce has thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Serve immediately.
Video
Notes
Cooking Tips
While we won’t be discussing the recipe today (since you already have one), I’d love to share some cooking tips that have helped me perfect my Shrimp in Garlic Sauce.
- Choose Your Shrimp: The type of shrimp you choose can greatly affect the outcome of your dish. Fresh, medium-sized shrimp work best in this dish as they cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the sauce well. However, if you prefer larger shrimp, feel free to use them. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Prepare Your Garlic: Garlic is the star of this dish, so it’s important to prepare it properly. Peel and mince your garlic finely to ensure it infuses the sauce with its full flavor. If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, consider using more than the recipe calls for.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients can make or break your Shrimp in Garlic Sauce. Using fresh garlic, shrimp, and other seasonings will give your dish a vibrant flavor and a spicy kick.
- Balance Your Flavors: Shrimp in Garlic Sauce is known for its perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors. Make sure to balance these flavors to suit your taste. If you prefer a sweeter dish, add a bit more sugar. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a bit more chili.
- Don’t Overcook Your Shrimp: To ensure your shrimp stays tender and juicy, avoid overcooking it. Sauté the shrimp just until it turns pink, then remove it from the pan and set it aside. You can return it to the pan towards the end of cooking, just long enough for it to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- Use a Wok: If possible, use a wok for sautéing. Its high, sloping sides and wide top allow for quick, even cooking, which is essential for this dish.
- Pair with Rice or Pasta: The savory, robust flavors of Shrimp in Garlic Sauce pair perfectly with steamed rice or pasta. The grains or noodles not only complement the flavors of the dish but also help to soak up the delicious sauce.
Remember, cooking is an art, not a science. These tips are just guidelines – feel free to tweak them to suit your taste. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process. After all, the best dishes are made with love!
How to Serve Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
Serving Shrimp in Garlic Sauce is about more than just plating a dish; it’s about creating a culinary experience that delights all your senses. Here’s how you can turn a simple stir-fry into a feast for the eyes, nose, and palate.
- Choose the Right Plate: The first step in serving Shrimp in Garlic Sauce is choosing the right plate. A large, flat plate works best as it allows room for the shrimp and any sides without crowding. If you have traditional Chinese plates, even better! The white color of the plate provides a beautiful contrast to the vibrant colors of the dish.
- Arrange Your Components: Start by placing a mound of steamed rice or noodles on one side of the plate. Then, arrange your Shrimp in Garlic Sauce next to it. The key is to create a balance of colors and textures. The succulent, savory shrimp should be nestled against the bright, crisp vegetables, creating a visually appealing contrast.
- Add Your Sides: On the other side of the plate, add your chosen sides. This could be anything from a small salad to some pickled vegetables or a bowl of soup. The goal is to complement the main dish and provide a variety of flavors and textures.
- Drizzle with Sauce: If you’ve made extra sauce for your Shrimp in Garlic Sauce, now’s the time to drizzle it over the dish. This not only adds an extra layer of flavor but also gives the dish a glossy, appetizing look.
- Garnish: For a final touch, sprinkle some chopped green onions or cilantro over the Shrimp in Garlic Sauce. This adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the savory shrimp and garlicky sauce.
- Pair with a Drink: To complete your meal, pair your Shrimp in Garlic Sauce with a drink. A cold Tsingtao beer or a glass of plum wine complements the flavors of the dish perfectly. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, a hot jasmine tea or a chilled chrysanthemum tea would be a great choice.
- Serve Immediately: Remember, Shrimp in Garlic Sauce is best enjoyed hot, right after cooking. The warmth of the dish enhances the flavors and makes for a comforting meal.
Serving Shrimp in Garlic Sauce is about more than just filling your stomach; it’s about taking your taste buds on a journey. So take your time, savor each bite, and enjoy the culinary adventure that is Shrimp in Garlic Sauce!
FAQs
Can I use other seafood for Shrimp in Garlic Sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with scallops, squid, or even fish. Just remember, the cooking time may vary.
Can I make Shrimp in Garlic Sauce less spicy?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of chili in the dish according to your taste.
Can I substitute the shrimp in Shrimp in Garlic Sauce?
While shrimp is traditional and adds a unique flavor to the dish, you can substitute it with other seafood like scallops or squid if needed.
My love for Shrimp in Garlic Sauce goes beyond its delicious taste. It’s about how a simple dish can bring so much joy and satisfaction. Whether you’re making it for the first time or have been perfecting it for years, the charm of this dish never fades. So, here’s to many more culinary adventures!
I hope you’ve enjoyed this exploration into the world of Shrimp in Garlic Sauce as much as I have. If you have any more questions or thoughts, don’t hesitate to reach out. After all, the joy of food is best when shared.