Dried Shrimp Stew

Dried Shrimp Stew Recipe with Soy Sauce and Cayenne Pepper

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Dried shrimp stew is a flavorful and hearty dish that is popular in many cultures around the world. This recipe combines the rich umami flavor of dried shrimp with the heat of cayenne pepper and the savory taste of soy sauce. It is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cozy night in.

History

Dried shrimp stew has been a staple in many cuisines for centuries. Dried shrimp were often used as a way to preserve seafood in regions where fresh seafood was not readily available. Over time, cooks developed recipes that highlighted the unique flavor of dried shrimp, creating dishes that are beloved by many.

Ingredients

2 cups of dried shrimp
1 tbsp of rice flour
1 tsp of salt
1 dash of cayenne pepper
1.5 tbsp of soy sauce

How to prepare

Soak the shrimp in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain and cover with cold water.
Add the cayenne pepper and soy sauce, and simmer gently for approximately 1 hour.
Combine the rice flour with cold water to create a smooth paste, and continue stirring until it thickens.
Serve with rice.

Variations

Add diced vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
Use different spices such as curry powder or paprika for a unique twist on the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to soak the dried shrimp in cold water before cooking to rehydrate them and remove any excess salt.

- Simmer the stew gently to allow the flavors to meld together and the shrimp to become tender.

- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences – add more for a spicier stew or omit it entirely for a milder dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the dried shrimp stew over steamed rice for a complete meal.

- Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for a pop of freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the stew gently to allow the flavors to develop and the shrimp to become tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use fresh shrimp instead of dried shrimp, but the flavor will be slightly different.

Make Ahead Tips

This stew can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the dried shrimp stew in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a drizzle of sesame oil.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the stew in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

120 per serving

Carbohydrates

12g per serving

Fats

2g per serving

Proteins

15g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (dried shrimp) and soy (soy sauce).

Summary

This dish is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Dried shrimp stew is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in. With a rich umami flavor and a hint of heat, this stew is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a joyful one. It was many years ago when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a wise and skilled cook, with a vast collection of recipes passed down through generations. One day, as we were going through her old recipe box, we stumbled upon a faded and tattered card with the title "Dried Shrimp Stew".

My grandmother's eyes lit up with excitement as she began to recount the story behind this particular recipe. She explained that she had learned it from a dear friend who had traveled to a remote village in the mountains of China many years ago. There, she had been served this delicious stew made with dried shrimp, vegetables, and a fragrant broth that was unlike anything she had ever tasted before.

As my grandmother shared the recipe with me, I could sense her passion for cooking and her love for sharing her culinary knowledge with me. She guided me through the process of rehydrating the dried shrimp, chopping the vegetables, and simmering the stew until it was rich and flavorful. I watched in awe as she worked her magic in the kitchen, turning simple ingredients into a dish that was both comforting and delicious.

After hours of simmering and stirring, the stew was finally ready. My grandmother ladled generous portions into bowls and we sat down to enjoy our meal together. The first spoonful was a revelation - the flavors of the dried shrimp, vegetables, and broth melded together perfectly, creating a dish that was both hearty and satisfying.

From that moment on, Dried Shrimp Stew became a staple in our household. Whenever the weather turned cold or we needed a comforting meal, my grandmother would whip up a batch of this delicious stew. Over the years, I have made it countless times, each time remembering that first moment of discovery with fondness.

As I grew older and ventured out into the world on my own, I carried this recipe with me, sharing it with friends and loved ones who were always amazed by its unique flavors. I have adapted it over the years, adding my own twist with different vegetables and spices, but the essence of the dish remains the same - a humble stew that brings warmth and comfort to all who taste it.

Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, surrounded by the aromas of simmering broth and spices, I am reminded of my grandmother's love and passion for cooking. I can still hear her voice guiding me through the steps of making Dried Shrimp Stew, her laughter filling the room as we shared stories and memories over a steaming bowl of stew.

And so, as I take a sip of the rich broth and savor the flavors of the dried shrimp and vegetables, I am grateful for the gift of this recipe and the memories that it holds. It is a reminder of the bond between generations, the joy of discovery, and the magic of a simple bowl of stew that brings people together in love and laughter.