If you're a fan of spicy, savory dishes with a hint of sweetness, you're in for a treat! Learn how to make the easiest Hunan Shrimp. You'll achieve that perfect balance between a crispy exterior and tender interior while indulging in bold, irresistible flavors.
Why You'll Love This Simple Shrimp Recipe
- Quick and Easy. Ready in under 30 minutes with the help of a hot skillet.
- Flavorful. Bold flavors of garlic, ginger, and spicy chili paste.
- Healthy. Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein option.
- Delicious. Packed with flavor that is absolutely restaurant-quality.
With the convenience of a quick stir-fry, you've achieved a restaurant-quality dish that will leave your friends and family craving more. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal, this Hunan Shrimp is guaranteed to be a hit.
What Does It Taste Like?
Hunan Shrimp is absolutely delicious and insanely popular among seafood enthusiasts. This dish offers a delectable combination of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors that appeals to a wide range of palates.
The bold richness of garlic and ginger, the heat from chili paste, and the succulent texture of shrimp create a mouthwatering and satisfying eating experience.
Is Hunan Shrimp Healthy?
Hunan Shrimp can be a healthy and nutritious dish when prepared mindfully, with attention to ingredient quality and cooking methods.
What Is Hunan Shrimp Made Of?
- Shrimp- Fresh or frozen, peeled, and deveined.
- Vegetable Oil- For stir-frying.
- Garlic- Freshly minced for the best flavor.
- Ginger- Freshly minced for a spicy kick.
- Chili Paste- Adds heat and depth of flavor.
- Soy Sauce- For a savory umami flavor.
- Rice Vinegar- Adds a tangy touch.
- Brown Sugar- Balances the heat with a hint of sweetness.
- Green Onions- For garnish and added flavor.
- Sesame Oil- Adds a nutty finish.
How To Make Hunan Shrimp
- Prepare the Shrimp. Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp will result in a better sear and crispier texture. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with a pinch of salt and set aside.
- Stir-Fry to Perfection. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring frequently until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the chili paste and stir to combine. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp is pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Create the Sauce. In the same skillet, add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the sauce begins to thicken. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve. Transfer the coated shrimp to a serving platter. Drizzle with sesame oil and garnish with chopped green onions for a burst of color and added freshness.
Tips And Tricks
Making Hunan Shrimp is a delicious endeavor, and a few tips and tricks can help you achieve the best possible results. Here are some pointers to ensure your shrimp turn out crispy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible:
- Preheat the Skillet. Preheat your skillet before adding the shrimp. This helps create a consistent cooking environment and contributes to achieving that perfect crispy texture.
- Use a Single Layer. Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook the shrimp in a single layer, leaving some space between them to allow for proper searing.
- Fresh Ingredients. Use fresh garlic and ginger for the most vibrant flavors.
Variations
If you're a fan of Hunan Shrimp and want to try some creative variations, here are a few delicious ideas to explore:
- Hunan Chicken- Substitute shrimp with thinly sliced chicken breast for a different protein option.
- Vegetarian Hunan- Use tofu or a medley of your favorite vegetables instead of shrimp.
- Hunan Beef- Thinly sliced beef can also be used for a hearty version of this dish.
What To Eat With Hunan Shrimp
Hunan Shrimp is a flavorful and savory dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some delicious options to consider serving alongside:
- Steamed Rice- A classic pairing to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry- Add a mix of colorful vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Fried Rice- For an extra indulgent option, serve with your favorite fried rice recipe.
- Asian Slaw- A refreshing slaw adds a crunchy contrast to the savory shrimp.
How Long Does It Last?
Cooked Hunan Shrimp can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors may intensify over time, so for the best bite, they are best enjoyed as soon as possible.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes, you can freeze Hunan Shrimp to extend their shelf life and enjoy them at a later time. Freezing is a great way to preserve the flavors and texture of the shrimp.
Place cooled shrimp in an airtight container or resealable freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible from the container or bag to prevent freezer burn. Place the container or bag in the freezer. Try to lay the shrimp flat to maximize storage space and ensure even freezing.
Properly frozen Hunan Shrimp can last in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months without significant loss of quality. However, for the best taste and texture, try to enjoy them within a few weeks of freezing.
More Spectacular Shrimp Recipes
- Shrimp Risotto
- Cilantro Lime Shrimp
- Salt and Pepper Shrimp
- Shrimp Tacos
- Bang Bang Shrimp
- Shrimp And Corn Soup
Pin It!
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Ingredients
- 1 pound Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp Chili Paste
- 3 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar
- 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
- 3 Green Onions, sliced
- 1 tsp Sesame Oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp. Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp will result in a better sear and crispier texture. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with a pinch of salt and set aside.
- Stir-Fry to Perfection. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring frequently until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the chili paste and stir to combine. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp is pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Create the Sauce. In the same skillet, add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the sauce begins to thicken. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve. Transfer the coated shrimp to a serving platter. Drizzle with sesame oil and garnish with chopped green onions for a burst of color and added freshness.
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