Asparagus and Shrimp Oriental

Asparagus and Shrimp Oriental Recipe - Chinese Cuisine

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

The Asparagus and Shrimp Oriental is a delightful fusion dish that combines the best of Asian flavors with the succulence of shrimp and the crisp freshness of asparagus. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a meal that is not only bursting with flavors but also packed with nutrients. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a sophisticated side dish, making it a great addition to any dinner table.

History

The origins of Asparagus and Shrimp Oriental can be traced back to the fusion cuisine movement, which began gaining popularity in the 1970s. This culinary trend involves blending ingredients and cooking techniques from different cultures to create innovative and flavorful dishes. The combination of shrimp and asparagus with oriental seasonings reflects a blend of Eastern and Western culinary traditions, making this dish a modern classic in fusion cuisine.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) fresh cooked shrimp
1 can water chestnuts
1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
1 medium sliced onion
1 cup diagonally sliced celery
1.5 lb (680 g) steamed fresh asparagus
1 x 11 oz (312 g) can drained mandarin orange sections
2 tbsp vegetable oil
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp freshly ground pepper
2 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp soy sauce
boiled rice

How to prepare

Shell and devein the shrimp.
Drain and slice the water chestnuts.
Arrange the shrimp, water chestnuts, mushrooms, onion, celery, asparagus, and oranges on a large tray.
Heat oil in a wok or electric skillet.
Add the onion, celery, salt, pepper, and sugar. Cook, stirring, until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
Add the asparagus and shrimp. Place the mushrooms and water chestnuts over the shrimp.
Sprinkle with soy sauce and place the orange sections on top.
Cover and cook until the mixture begins to steam. Then, reduce the heat.
Simmer for about 12 minutes.
Serve on rice.
Enjoy.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute shrimp with tofu or tempeh. You can also experiment with different vegetables, such as bell peppers or snap peas, to add variety to the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture, use fresh shrimp and asparagus. Fresh shrimp should have a firm texture and a mild sea smell. For the asparagus, look for bright green stalks with tightly closed tips. When cooking, make sure not to overcook the shrimp and asparagus to maintain their succulent and crisp qualities, respectively. Additionally, using a wok or electric skillet can help in evenly cooking the ingredients and infusing them with the rich flavors of the seasonings.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served hot over a bed of boiled rice. For a complete meal, pair it with a light soup or a salad.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe. It involves cooking the ingredients quickly over high heat while stirring constantly, which helps retain the flavors and nutrients of the ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh asparagus is not available, frozen asparagus can be used as a substitute. Similarly, if you prefer a different protein, chicken or beef can replace shrimp.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the vegetables and shrimp ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply follow the cooking instructions, which will save you preparation time.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Asparagus and Shrimp Oriental in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the ingredients. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for an added touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complements the flavors without overpowering them.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Asparagus and Shrimp Oriental contains approximately 250 calories, making it a moderate-calorie dish that can fit into various dietary plans.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the vegetables and the mandarin orange sections. The total carbohydrate content per serving is approximately 15 grams, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

The Asparagus and Shrimp Oriental is low in fats, with most of the fat content coming from the vegetable oil used in cooking. The total fat content per serving is around 7 grams, with only 1 gram of saturated fat, making this dish a heart-healthy choice.

Proteins

Shrimp is an excellent source of high-quality protein, and this dish provides a generous amount of it. Each serving contains about 25 grams of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of vegetables used. Asparagus is a great source of vitamin K, folate, and copper. Shrimp provides selenium and vitamin B12, while the mandarin oranges add a boost of vitamin C. Together, these ingredients make the dish a nutritional powerhouse.

Alergens

The primary allergen in this recipe is shellfish (shrimp). Individuals with a shellfish allergy should avoid this dish. Additionally, the soy sauce contains soy and may contain gluten, which are common allergens.

Summary

Overall, the Asparagus and Shrimp Oriental is a nutritious dish that is low in carbohydrates and fats, high in protein, and packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a balanced meal that supports a healthy diet.

Summary

The Asparagus and Shrimp Oriental is a flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the succulence of shrimp with the crispness of asparagus and the richness of oriental seasonings. It's a versatile recipe that offers a delightful fusion of flavors and is packed with health benefits, making it a perfect addition to any meal plan.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its flavors. Asparagus and Shrimp Oriental - a dish that promised to transport me to a world of exotic spices and tantalizing aromas. It was a recipe that I knew I had to master, even if it meant embarking on a culinary adventure unlike any I had ever experienced before.

I first came across the recipe for Asparagus and Shrimp Oriental in an old cookbook that belonged to my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins. She was a seasoned cook with a passion for experimenting with new and exciting flavors. The pages of her cookbook were filled with handwritten notes and splattered with stains from countless cooking experiments. As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on the recipe that would change my culinary journey forever.

The ingredients were simple yet intriguing - fresh asparagus spears, plump shrimp, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a hint of sesame oil. The combination of these ingredients promised a dish that was both light and flavorful, with a subtle hint of heat from the ginger and garlic. I could already imagine the aroma that would fill my kitchen as the dish simmered on the stove.

Eager to learn the secrets of this exotic dish, I asked Mrs. Jenkins if she would be willing to teach me how to make it. With a twinkle in her eye, she agreed, and we set a date for our cooking lesson. As I gathered the ingredients and prepared my kitchen for our culinary adventure, I could feel my excitement building with each passing moment.

When Mrs. Jenkins arrived at my home, she brought with her a basket of fresh asparagus and a bag of plump shrimp. As we stood side by side in my kitchen, she guided me through the steps of preparing the ingredients - slicing the asparagus into bite-sized pieces, deveining the shrimp, and mincing the garlic and ginger. With each step, she shared her wisdom and expertise, teaching me the importance of precision and patience in the kitchen.

As the dish began to take shape on the stove, the aroma that filled my kitchen was intoxicating. The sizzle of the shrimp as it cooked in the fragrant sauce, the vibrant green of the asparagus as it softened ever so slightly - it was a symphony of flavors and textures that danced before my eyes.

When the dish was finally ready, Mrs. Jenkins and I sat down at the table to savor our creation. The first bite was a revelation - the tender shrimp, the crisp asparagus, the bold flavors of ginger and garlic bursting on my tongue. It was a dish unlike any I had ever tasted before, and I knew that I had found a new favorite in my culinary repertoire.

From that day on, Asparagus and Shrimp Oriental became a staple in my kitchen. I would make it for special occasions, for family gatherings, or simply when I wanted to treat myself to a taste of the exotic. Each time I prepared the dish, I would think back to that day in my kitchen with Mrs. Jenkins, and I would be filled with gratitude for her guidance and wisdom.

As the years passed, I would continue to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and adaptations to make it truly my own. I would share it with friends and family, passing on the knowledge that Mrs. Jenkins had so generously imparted to me. And with each bite, I would be transported back to that moment when I first laid eyes on the recipe that had captured my heart and sparked a lifelong love affair with cooking.

And so, dear reader, I urge you to seek out those recipes that captivate you, that speak to your soul and ignite your passion for cooking. For in those recipes lies the magic of the culinary world, waiting to be discovered and shared with those you hold dear. As for me, I will always be grateful for the day I learned to make Asparagus and Shrimp Oriental, a dish that will forever hold a special place in my heart and in my kitchen.