Ring in the Lunar New Year with a dish as vibrant and auspicious as the celebration itself: Garlic Steamed Shrimp. This classic Cantonese recipe is a testament to the beauty of simplicity, showcasing the delicate sweetness of fresh shrimp elevated by the pungent aroma of garlic and a touch of ginger. The succulent shrimp, barely cooked to perfection, retain their tender texture and juicy flavor, making this dish a true culinary delight. It’s a dish that’s as impressive as it is easy to prepare, perfect for a festive gathering or a cozy family meal. Its elegant presentation and irresistible taste will undoubtedly impress your guests.
Beyond its delightful taste and elegant presentation, this Garlic Steamed Shrimp recipe is remarkably quick to make, demanding minimal ingredients and effort. The delicate balance of flavors makes it a versatile side dish or a light yet satisfying main course. To learn exactly how to create this delicious Lunar New Year staple, let's dive into the detailed step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Kitchen Shears
- Steamer
- Bowl
- Chopsticks
- Spoon
Ingredients
- Shrimp: 31-40 shrimp (1 pound), large size. Smaller shrimp can be used, check packaging for count.
- Garlic
- Green Onions (white and green parts separated)
- Ginger
- Vermicelli
- Oyster Sauce: 1 tbsp
- Light Soy Sauce: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Sugar: 1/2 tsp
- Sesame Oil: 1/2 tsp
- Cooking Oil: 1 1/2 tbsp
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Shrimp and Aromatics
- Clean and devein the shrimp. Trim off heads and legs (if desired; recipe uses head-on shrimp).
- Slice open the back of each shrimp, cutting through the shell and slightly into the flesh to create space for the garlic paste.
- Smash and peel garlic cloves. Remove hard ends and mince finely.
- Finely mince the white parts of the green onions. Dice the ginger into thin strips.
Step 2. Infuse and Marinate
- Combine minced garlic, green onion whites, and ginger. Heat cooking oil (1 1/2 tbsp) until shimmering (30-40 seconds). Pour hot oil over the garlic mixture.
- Cut vermicelli noodles to a desired length with kitchen shears. Drain excess water.
- In a bowl, mix the drained vermicelli with oyster sauce (1 tbsp), light soy sauce (1/2 tsp), salt (1/2 tsp), sugar (1/2 tsp), and sesame oil (1/2 tsp).
- Spoon the garlic paste into the back of each shrimp. Arrange shrimp on top of the vermicelli mixture on a plate, filling any gaps with remaining garlic paste.
Step 3. Steam the Shrimp
- Place the plate in a steamer. Steam over high heat for 6 minutes.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with chopped green onion greens and serve immediately.
Read more: Easy Steamed Tofu with Shallot Sauce Recipe - Vegan Delight
Tips
- Use frozen, unpeeled, and untreated shrimp for best flavor and texture.
- Defrost shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water for a faster method. Avoid using heat to defrost.
- Pouring hot oil over the garlic mixture enhances its flavor without burning.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
While fresh shrimp is best for optimal flavor and texture, you can use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before steaming to prevent excessive moisture.
2. What can I do if my shrimp is overcooked?
Overcooked shrimp becomes tough and rubbery. Unfortunately, there's no way to reverse this. To prevent overcooking, follow the steaming time guidelines closely and check for doneness frequently. Next time, try reducing the steaming time slightly.
This Garlic Steamed Shrimp recipe is a perfect addition to your Lunar New Year feast, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Its simplicity belies its impressive taste, making it a dish you'll want to make again and again. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and auspicious start to the new year!