Minced Shrimp in Lettuce

Minced Shrimp in Lettuce Recipe - Taiwanese Cuisine

Region / culture: Taiwan | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Minced Shrimp in Lettuce is a delicious and healthy dish that combines the flavors of shrimp, vegetables, and seasonings all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves. This recipe is perfect for a light and refreshing meal that is easy to prepare and full of flavor.

History

Minced Shrimp in Lettuce is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, known for its combination of fresh ingredients and savory flavors. It is often served as an appetizer or as part of a larger meal, and is loved for its light and satisfying taste.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of prawns or other shrimp
0.5 tsp of salt
1 tsp of cornstarch
0.33 cup of chopped onions
0.33 cup of chopped white leeks
0.33 cup of peas (fresh or frozen)
1 head of iceberg lettuce
2 Yiou-Tias
seasoning
4 chopped green onions (scallions)
1 tbsp of soy sauce
1 tbsp of chicken stock (or water)
0.5 tsp of sesame oil
A pinch of white pepper

How to prepare

Clean and devein the prawns, then pat them dry.
Cut the prawns into small pieces and marinate them for 10 minutes in a mixture of salt and cornstarch (dissolved in 0.25 tsp of water).
Cut the Yiou-Tias into 1-inch sections and fry them in hot oil until they become crisp.
Pat dry the fried Yiou-Tias, flatten them using a spatula or the side of a chopping knife, and tear or cut them into small pieces.
Fry the prawns in hot oil, stirring constantly until they change color.
Fry the onions.
Add the fried prawns to the onions, then add the seasoning and mix until the prawns are coated.
Mix in the fried Yiou-Tias.
* Wash the lettuce and tear the leaves off, keeping them whole.
Serve the shrimp wrapped in lettuce leaves. This recipe serves four to six people.
Note: If you cannot find Yiou-Tias or prefer to omit them, the shrimp alone is still delicious.

Variations

Add diced water chestnuts or bamboo shoots for added crunch.
Substitute chicken or tofu for the shrimp for a different protein option.
Add chopped peanuts or cashews for extra texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to clean and devein the shrimp properly before cooking to ensure a clean and delicious dish.

- Marinating the shrimp in a mixture of salt and cornstarch helps to tenderize the shrimp and add flavor.

- Frying the Yiou-Tias until crisp adds a crunchy texture to the dish.

- Be sure to stir constantly when frying the shrimp to ensure even cooking.

- Serving the shrimp wrapped in lettuce leaves adds a refreshing and crisp element to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Minced Shrimp in Lettuce as an appetizer or as part of a larger meal with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying the shrimp and vegetables helps to lock in the flavors and create a delicious dish.

- Frying the Yiou-Tias until crisp adds a crunchy texture to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ground chicken or turkey instead of shrimp for a different protein option.

- Substitute iceberg lettuce with butter lettuce or romaine lettuce for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the shrimp and prepare the vegetables ahead of time to save time when cooking.

- Store the cooked shrimp mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Minced Shrimp in Lettuce on a platter with the lettuce leaves arranged neatly around the shrimp mixture. - Garnish with chopped scallions or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Minced Shrimp in Lettuce with a side of steamed rice and a vegetable stir-fry for a complete meal.

- Pair with a light and crisp white wine or a cold beer for a refreshing drink option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quick and easy option.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 10g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 5g per serving

Saturated Fat: 1g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 20% of daily value per serving

Vitamin C: 30% of daily value per serving

Iron: 15% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains shellfish (shrimp) and soy

Summary

Minced Shrimp in Lettuce is a low-calorie, high-protein dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a healthy and nutritious option for a light and satisfying meal.

Summary

Minced Shrimp in Lettuce is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With a combination of shrimp, vegetables, and seasonings all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy the flavors of Chinese cuisine with this easy and flavorful recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Lily for lunch. She had prepared a beautiful spread of dishes, but one in particular caught my eye - minced shrimp in lettuce. As soon as I took a bite, I was hooked. The flavors were so fresh and vibrant, and the combination of the sweet shrimp with the crunchy lettuce was simply divine.

I begged Lily for the recipe, and she was more than happy to share it with me. She explained that she had learned it from her grandmother, who had picked it up during her travels in Asia many years ago. I was fascinated by the story behind the dish and knew that I had to learn how to make it myself.

Over the next few weeks, I practiced making minced shrimp in lettuce over and over again. I experimented with different seasonings and techniques, trying to perfect the flavors and textures. It wasn't long before I had mastered the recipe, and I couldn't wait to share it with my friends and family.

One day, I hosted a dinner party and served minced shrimp in lettuce as one of the appetizers. My guests were absolutely blown away by the dish and couldn't stop raving about it. They all begged me for the recipe, and I happily obliged, passing on the tradition that had been shared with me.

As the years went by, minced shrimp in lettuce became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for special occasions, family gatherings, and even just for myself when I was craving something light and refreshing. Each time I made it, I felt a sense of connection to Lily and her grandmother, as if I was carrying on their culinary legacy.

One day, my own granddaughter came to visit me and asked me to teach her how to make minced shrimp in lettuce. I was overjoyed at the opportunity to pass on this beloved recipe to the next generation. Together, we spent an afternoon in the kitchen, chopping, mixing, and assembling the dish with care and love.

As we sat down to enjoy our creation, I couldn't help but think back to the first time I had tried minced shrimp in lettuce at Lily's house. It was incredible to see how far I had come since then, and how much joy this dish had brought me over the years.

Now, whenever I make minced shrimp in lettuce, I think of all the memories and stories that are woven into the recipe. It's not just a dish to me - it's a reminder of the friendships, traditions, and experiences that have shaped my life. And I hope that as my granddaughter continues to make it, she will feel the same sense of connection and joy that I do.