This vibrant and flavorful shrimp and Chinese cabbage stir-fry is a quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying weeknight meal. Packed with the sweetness of crisp cabbage, the delicate taste of succulent shrimp, and a zesty sauce, this recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create an explosion of flavor. It's a dish that's both elegant enough for a dinner party and easy enough for a casual Tuesday night. The combination of textures – the tender shrimp, the satisfying crunch of the cabbage – makes for a truly delightful culinary experience.
Beyond its deliciousness, this stir-fry is also incredibly versatile. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots, to customize it to your liking. Ready to create this delicious dish? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Chopping board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Chinese Cabbage
- Dried Shrimp
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Crisp the Shrimp
- Separate the Chinese cabbage and dried shrimp. Wash the dried shrimp.
- Heat a little oil in a pot and fry the dried shrimp until crispy (about 3-4 minutes). Stir frequently to prevent burning. Use medium-high heat if unsure.
- Remove the crispy dried shrimp from the pot and chop into small pieces. Let cool before chopping.
Step 2. Stir-fry the Chinese Cabbage
- Using the same pot, heat the oil used to fry the shrimp. Add the Chinese cabbage and stir-fry until wilted and slightly softened (about 2-3 minutes).
- Season the cabbage with oyster sauce, salt, and light soy sauce.
Step 3. Season and Enhance Flavor
- Add garlic oil (or sesame oil) and fried garlic for extra flavor (optional). Add white pepper.
Step 4. Combine and Serve
- Combine the crispy dried shrimp with the stir-fried cabbage.
Read more: Authentic Cantonese Beef Stew: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- To know when the shrimp is done, look for less bubbling, a color change, and the shrimp becoming smaller and harder.
- Adjust the softness of the cabbage to your preference. Some prefer it crispier, some softer.
- Don't chop the dried shrimp too finely; leave some texture for a better eating experience.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cabbage?
Yes! Napa cabbage or even regular green cabbage will work well, though the texture might be slightly different. You may need to adjust cooking time depending on the cabbage type.
2. What can I do if I don't have cornstarch?
Arrowroot powder or even a little all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute, but the shrimp might not be quite as crispy. You can also skip it entirely, the shrimp will still be delicious, just not as crispy.
This Crispy Shrimp & Chinese Cabbage Stir-Fry is a testament to the magic of simple, fresh ingredients. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors – a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and satisfying. We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do!