Kung Pao Shrimp Delight Recipe

Introduction

Kung Pao Shrimp Delight is a popular Chinese dish that combines the flavors of succulent shrimp, crunchy peanuts, and a spicy, tangy sauce. This recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional Kung Pao Chicken, offering a seafood alternative that is equally delicious. It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this mouthwatering dish!

Ingredients

For the marinade:

• 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

For the sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce (adjust according to your spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the stir-fry:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1/2 cup unsalted peanuts
• 4 green onions, chopped
• Cooked white rice, for serving

Steps

Step 1: Marinating the shrimp

In a bowl, combine the shrimp, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry), and cornstarch. Mix well to ensure the shrimp is coated evenly. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Preparing the sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, honey, Sriracha sauce, and sesame oil. Set aside.

Step 3: Stir-frying the ingredients

Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the marinated shrimp to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the wok and set aside.

In the same wok, add the diced red and green bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften but still maintain their crunchiness.

Add the peanuts to the wok and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes until they become slightly golden.

Step 4: Combining the sauce and ingredients

Return the cooked shrimp to the wok and pour the prepared sauce over the ingredients. Stir everything together to ensure the sauce coats the shrimp, peppers, and peanuts evenly.

Continue stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the ingredients nicely.

Step 5: Serving

Transfer the Kung Pao Shrimp Delight to a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh garnish.

Serve the dish hot with steamed white rice, allowing the flavors to meld together for a delightful dining experience.

Variations

Kung Pao Shrimp Delight is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Spicier Version: If you love heat, add extra Sriracha sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. Adjust the spiciness level according to your liking.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the shrimp with tofu or diced vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli for a vegetarian twist.
• Cashew or Almond Substitute: Swap the peanuts for cashews or almonds to add a different nutty flavor to the dish.

Tips

• Make sure to devein the shrimp properly to remove any gritty texture and improve the overall taste.
• Do not overcook the shrimp to maintain their tenderness. They should turn pink and opaque quickly with a slightly firm texture.
• Adjust the amount of Sriracha sauce based on your spice preference. Add more for extra heat or reduce it for a milder version.
• Feel free to add additional vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or water chestnuts for added crunch and color.
• Serve the Kung Pao Shrimp Delight immediately to enjoy the perfect combination of textures and flavors.

Conclusion

Kung Pao Shrimp Delight is a delightful recipe that brings together the flavors of succulent shrimp, crunchy peanuts, and a spicy, tangy sauce. It’s a perfect dish to satisfy your cravings for Chinese cuisine, whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner. With its quick and easy preparation, you can enjoy this mouthwatering delight in no time. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to properly thaw and drain them before marinating and cooking. Fresh shrimp are always the best option for the most flavorful results.

2. How can I make the dish less spicy?

If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of Sriracha sauce or omit it altogether. You can also add a bit more honey to balance the flavors.

3. Can I make this dish in advance?

Kung Pao Shrimp Delight is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients in advance and stir-fry everything just before serving to maintain the texture and flavors.