Chinese Hunan Shrimp is a tasty dish packed with flavor. It features juicy shrimp cooked in a spicy, tangy sauce that makes your taste buds dance! 🌶️
I love how each bite is a burst of deliciousness with just the right kick. Pair it with some rice, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress! Give it a whirl; you won’t regret it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this dish, as they hold up well to cooking. If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
Vegetable Oil: This oil is great for high heat, but if you’re looking to switch it up, consider using canola or peanut oil for a nutty flavor.
Cornstarch: It helps create a crispy texture on the shrimp. You can use arrowroot powder or all-purpose flour if you don’t have cornstarch on hand.
Black Vinegar: Chinese black vinegar gives depth to the sauce, but balsamic or rice vinegar can work too if you need a substitute.
Green Beans: Feel free to switch to snow peas or bell peppers if green beans aren’t your style or are out of season.
How Do I Get the Shrimp Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp just right can be tricky! Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Start by ensuring your shrimp are thawed and patted dry. This helps them sear instead of steam.
- Stir-fry shrimp over medium-high heat; this allows for quick cooking without becoming tough.
- Watch for color! When they turn pink and opaque, they’re done—usually just 2-3 minutes!
Keeping an eye on the shrimp is key. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so don’t walk away!
How to Make Delicious Chinese Hunan Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2-3 dried red chili peppers (optional, adjust to taste for heat)
- 1 cup green beans or snap peas, trimmed and halved
- 1/2 cup small broccoli florets
- 3 scallions (green onions), thinly sliced, separated whites and greens
- 1/4 cup water or chicken stock
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Chinese black vinegar (or substitute with balsamic or rice vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili paste or chili garlic sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Chinese Hunan Shrimp dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time, totaling about 20 minutes. Quick and easy for a busy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Coat the Shrimp:
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with cornstarch until every piece is coated evenly. This helps create a delightful crispness when cooked.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, black vinegar, hoisin sauce, chili paste, sugar, and cornstarch. Stir well to mix everything together and set it aside for later.
3. Heat Things Up:
Pour the vegetable oil into a large wok or skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. You want it hot to get the perfect sear on the shrimp!
4. Add Flavors:
Once the oil is hot, throw in the minced garlic, ginger, and dried chili peppers (if using). Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until everything smells amazing, but be careful not to let it burn.
5. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, add the coated shrimp to the wok. Stir-fry them for about 2 minutes until they start to turn pink and curl up. That’s when you know they are cooking well!
6. Toss in the Veggies:
Now it’s time for some color! Toss in the green beans (or snap peas) and broccoli florets along with the white parts of the scallions. Stir-fry everything for another 2 minutes until the veggies are tender yet still crunchy.
7. Pour in the Sauce:
Pour the prepared sauce and water or chicken stock into the wok. Stir constantly and cook everything together until the sauce thickens and beautifully coats the shrimp and veggies.
8. Final Touches:
Once everything is mixed and flavorful, take the wok off the heat and garnish your dish with the green parts of the sliced scallions.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Chinese Hunan Shrimp right away, alongside some steamed white rice or fried rice. Enjoy the burst of flavors!
Bon appétit! Your flavorful and spicy Chinese Hunan Shrimp is ready to impress!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them properly in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before coating with cornstarch to prevent excess moisture.
Can I Adjust the Level of Spice?
Absolutely! You can easily control the heat by adjusting the number of dried red chili peppers you use or by adding less chili paste in the sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply omit the chili altogether!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or stock to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the shrimp with firm tofu or seitan for a delicious vegetarian version. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time for tofu to get a nice crispness. Enjoy!
