Chinese Hunan Shrimp is a spicy and vibrant dish that features tender shrimp in a bold sauce made with garlic, ginger, and chili peppers. It’s a party for your taste buds!
I love the lively kick this dish brings to dinner. Pair it with rice, and you’ve got a tasty meal that makes your mouth happy. Just don’t forget to have some water nearby! 🌶️💦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp make this dish shine. If you don’t have fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp will work just fine. Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking!
Vegetable Oil: Any neutral oil works well, like canola or sunflower oil. I sometimes use sesame oil for an extra nuttiness, but use it sparingly as it has a strong flavor.
Black Vinegar: Chinese black vinegar adds depth to the dish. If you can’t find it, balsamic vinegar is a good stand-in. You could also use rice vinegar with a pinch of sugar for sweetness.
Chili Paste: Adjust the level of heat according to your taste. If you want a milder version, feel free to use less, or substitute with sriracha or a mild chili sauce.
Green Beans or Asparagus: Both veggies bring vibrant crunch! If you’re feeling creative, try broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a colorful mix.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Getting shrimp just right is key for this dish. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep a close eye on them. Here’s how I do it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding shrimp. This quick cooking method ensures they turn pink without getting tough.
- Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes, just until they start to lose their translucence. They will finish cooking in the sauce!
Trust me; this technique will keep your shrimp tender and juicy – perfect for soaking up that delicious Hunan sauce!
How to Make Chinese Hunan Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup green beans or asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3-4 dried red chili peppers (adjust to taste)
- 2 green onions, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
Sauce Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Chinese black vinegar (or substitute with balsamic vinegar)
- 1 tbsp chili paste or chili garlic sauce (adjust spiciness to preference)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
For Serving:
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Steamed white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and 10-15 minutes to cook, so you can have it ready in about 30 minutes total. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps ensure they sauté nicely in the pan. Set them aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, black vinegar, chili paste, oyster sauce, and sugar. Give it a good stir to blend all the flavors together and set aside for later.
3. Heat the Oil:
Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, toss in the dried red chili peppers and stir for about 30 seconds until they release their fragrant aroma. Be careful not to burn them!
4. Add Aromatics:
Next, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for another 30 seconds until both are aromatic and slightly golden. The kitchen will start smelling amazing!
5. Cook the Shrimp:
Now it’s time to add the shrimp! Toss them in and stir-fry until they just begin to turn pink—about 2 minutes. Don’t worry; they will continue cooking in the next steps!
6. Add Vegetables:
Add the sliced red bell pepper, green beans (or asparagus), and half of the chopped green onions. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp, adding a lovely crunch to the meal.
7. Pour in the Sauce:
Gently pour the prepared sauce mixture over the shrimp and vegetables. Stir everything together to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with that delicious sauce.
8. Thicken the Sauce:
Add the cornstarch slurry to the pan. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 1-2 minutes. This will help everything stick together just right!
9. Remove From Heat:
Take the skillet off the heat and garnish your dish with the reserved green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. It adds a nice touch and makes it look even more appetizing!
10. Serve:
Serve your sizzling hot Chinese Hunan Shrimp immediately over a bed of steamed white rice. Enjoy the colorful presentation and bold flavors!
Dig in and enjoy the flavorful, spicy, and aromatic taste of this authentic dish! 🌶️🍤✨
Can I Substitute the Shrimp with Another Protein?
Absolutely! Chicken, tofu, or even beef can work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; for chicken or beef, you may need to cook a bit longer to ensure it’s fully cooked through.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer less heat, reduce the number of dried chili peppers and chili paste to your liking. You can also use mild chili sauce or leave out the spicy ingredients altogether for a milder flavor.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by replacing the shrimp with tofu or your favorite vegetables. Substitute the oyster sauce with a vegetarian stir-fry sauce or mushroom sauce for added flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help prevent drying out!