Shrimp with Thai Dipping Sauce

Shrimp with Thai Dipping Sauce Recipe from Thailand

Region / culture: Thailand | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 2 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Shrimp with Thai Dipping Sauce is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the succulent taste of shrimp with the bold flavors of Thai cuisine. This dish is perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as an appetizer for a dinner party.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Thai cuisine, which is known for its use of fresh herbs, spices, and bold flavors. Shrimp is a popular ingredient in Thai cooking, and this dish showcases the versatility of this seafood.

Ingredients

0.67 cup rice wine vinegar
0.5 cup tightly packed fresh mint leaves, chopped
0.33 cup (generous) low-fat milk
6 large garlic cloves, chopped
3 tbsp minced lemongrass [1] or 1.5 tsp minced lime peel (green part only)
2 tbsp honey
2 tsp fish sauce (nuoc mam, Nam Pla) [2]
2 tsp low-sodium soy sauce
1 tsp dried crushed red pepper
0.5 tsp imitation coconut extract
2 lb (907 g) uncooked medium to large shrimp, peeled, de-veined

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine the first 10 ingredients. (This can be prepared up to 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
Bring a pot of water to a boil.
Add the shrimp and cook for 2 minutes until opaque. Drain.
Refresh the shrimp under cold water and drain.
Add the shrimp to the sauce mixture and let it stand for 45 minutes.
Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 1 hour. (This can be prepared up to 4 hours ahead. Cover.)
Transfer the shrimp to a platter.
Pour the sauce into a decorative bowl. Place the sauce in the center of the platter and serve.

Variations

Add diced pineapple or mango to the sauce for a sweet and tangy twist.
Substitute the shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
Garnish with chopped peanuts or cilantro for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to devein the shrimp before cooking to remove any grit or impurities.

- Marinating the shrimp in the sauce mixture helps to infuse the flavors and tenderize the shrimp.

- Serve the dish with fresh herbs and lime wedges for a burst of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Shrimp with Thai Dipping Sauce as a main dish with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables, or as an appetizer with crispy wontons.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the shrimp just until opaque to prevent overcooking and maintain their tender texture.

- Marinate the shrimp in the sauce mixture for at least 45 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use regular milk or coconut milk instead of low-fat milk.

- Substitute fish sauce for soy sauce for a more authentic Thai flavor.

- Use fresh basil or cilantro in place of mint leaves.

Make Ahead Tips

The sauce mixture can be prepared up to 1 day ahead and refrigerated until ready to use.

- The shrimp can be cooked and marinated in the sauce up to 4 hours ahead of serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the shrimp on a platter with the sauce in a decorative bowl in the center for an elegant presentation. - Garnish with fresh herbs, lime wedges, and sliced chili peppers for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the Shrimp with Thai Dipping Sauce with a crisp white wine or a light lager beer.

- Pair with a side of jasmine rice and a cucumber salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

- Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Shrimp with Thai Dipping Sauce contains approximately 250 calories, making it a light and satisfying meal option.

Carbohydrates

This dish is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet. Each serving contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Shrimp is a lean source of protein and contains minimal fat. The sauce in this recipe is made with low-fat milk and coconut extract, keeping the fat content low. Each serving contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Shrimp is a rich source of protein, making this dish a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake. Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Shrimp is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, iron, and selenium. The mint leaves in the sauce also provide a boost of vitamins A and C. Each serving contains approximately 15% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains shrimp, soy sauce, and coconut extract, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before serving this dish.

Summary

Overall, Shrimp with Thai Dipping Sauce is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is low in carbohydrates and fats, high in protein, and packed with vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Shrimp with Thai Dipping Sauce is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With its bold flavors and tender shrimp, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a hot summer day, much like today, and I was wandering through the bustling streets of Bangkok, Thailand. The intoxicating aroma of spices and herbs filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

I stumbled upon a small street vendor, his wrinkled face glowing with pride as he flipped shrimp skewers on a sizzling grill. Intrigued, I approached him and asked about the dish he was preparing. He chuckled warmly and beckoned me closer, offering me a taste of his creation.

The first bite was a revelation. The succulent shrimp, marinated in a fragrant blend of lemongrass, ginger, and garlic, exploded with flavor in my mouth. But it was the dipping sauce that truly stole the show. Tangy, spicy, and subtly sweet, it complemented the shrimp perfectly, leaving me craving more.

I begged the street vendor for the recipe, but he simply shook his head and laughed, telling me it was a closely guarded family secret. Undeterred, I spent the rest of my time in Thailand seeking out different versions of the dish, determined to unlock its mysteries.

I visited bustling markets and quiet fishing villages, learning from local cooks and grandmothers who generously shared their knowledge with me. I discovered that every family had their own twist on the classic recipe, adding their own special ingredients and techniques to make it uniquely their own.

After months of experimentation and countless failed attempts, I finally cracked the code and created my own version of Shrimp with Thai Dipping Sauce. The secret, I learned, was in the balance of flavors – the perfect harmony of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy that made the dish so irresistible.

I brought my newfound recipe back home with me, eager to share it with my family and friends. They were blown away by the complex flavors and exotic aromas, begging me to make it for every special occasion.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect my recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my own taste. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that bustling street in Bangkok, surrounded by the sights and sounds of a vibrant culture that has forever changed my approach to cooking.

My Shrimp with Thai Dipping Sauce has become a staple in my kitchen, a dish that never fails to impress and delight. It is a testament to the power of culinary exploration and the joy of sharing delicious food with the ones you love.

As I sit here, reminiscing about my culinary adventures in Thailand, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences that have shaped me into the cook I am today. And as I prepare to make another batch of my famous Shrimp with Thai Dipping Sauce, I smile at the thought of the new memories and flavors that await me on this delicious journey.