West Coast Shrimp Stir-fry

West Coast Shrimp Stir-fry Recipe - Delicious and Flavorful

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

West Coast Shrimp Stir-fry is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with a variety of fresh vegetables and a savory sauce. This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

History

The origins of shrimp stir-fry can be traced back to traditional Chinese cooking techniques. Stir-frying is a popular method of cooking in Chinese cuisine, as it allows for quick cooking at high temperatures, which helps to retain the natural flavors and textures of the ingredients.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) of peeled, de-veined raw shrimp
2 tbsp of vegetable oil
1 large onion, sliced and separated into rings
1.5 large green peppers, cut into strips
1 cup of diagonally sliced celery
1 clove of garlic, minced
1.25 cups of chicken broth, divided
0.5 tsp of ground black pepper
2 tbsp of cornstarch
3 tbsp of soy sauce
2 large tomatoes, chopped
4 cups of hot cooked rice

How to prepare

Cook the shrimp in oil in a wok or large skillet for 2 minutes.
Add onion, peppers, celery, garlic, 0.5 cup of broth, and black pepper. Cover and steam for 2 minutes.
Dissolve cornstarch in the remaining 0.75 cup of broth and soy sauce.
Stir the cornstarch mixture into the shrimp.
Add tomatoes and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes or until the sauce is clear and thickened.
Serve over fluffy rice.

Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms. You can also add some heat with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking, as stir-frying is a fast-paced cooking method.

- Use a high heat and a large skillet or wok to ensure that the shrimp and vegetables cook quickly and evenly.

- Don't overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.

- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or add some heat with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious stir-fry over fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is a quick and easy cooking technique that involves cooking ingredients in a hot skillet or wok with a small amount of oil. The key is to keep the ingredients moving constantly to ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the shrimp with chicken, beef, or tofu for a different protein option. You can also use different vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prep the ingredients for this stir-fry ahead of time, such as chopping the vegetables and marinating the shrimp. This will help to speed up the cooking process when you're ready to make the dish.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this West Coast Shrimp Stir-fry in a large serving bowl or on individual plates, garnished with chopped green onions or fresh herbs for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This stir-fry pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. You can also serve it with a light and refreshing beer, such as a pilsner or lager.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the stir-fry until heated through, or reheat in a skillet on the stovetop.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this West Coast Shrimp Stir-fry contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in this West Coast Shrimp Stir-fry primarily come from the rice and vegetables. Each serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this dish come from the vegetable oil used for cooking the shrimp and vegetables. Each serving contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Shrimp is a great source of protein, and each serving of this stir-fry contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (shrimp) and soy sauce, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Overall, this West Coast Shrimp Stir-fry is a balanced and nutritious meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

West Coast Shrimp Stir-fry is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Packed with tender shrimp, fresh vegetables, and a savory sauce, this stir-fry is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for West Coast Shrimp Stir-fry. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha on the west coast. Martha was known for her incredible cooking skills, and she had promised to teach me how to make one of her favorite dishes.

As we gathered the ingredients together in her cozy kitchen, Martha began to tell me the story behind the recipe. She explained that she had learned it from a local fisherman who would bring her the freshest shrimp straight from the ocean. The secret, she said, was in the simplicity of the dish – letting the natural flavors of the shrimp and vegetables shine through.

As we started preparing the dish, Martha showed me how to properly clean and devein the shrimp. She emphasized the importance of using the freshest ingredients possible, as they would make all the difference in the final outcome. I watched in awe as she effortlessly chopped vegetables and tossed them in the sizzling wok, the fragrant aromas filling the kitchen.

As the shrimp began to cook and turn a beautiful pink color, Martha shared with me some tips and tricks for achieving the perfect stir-fry. She explained the importance of cooking the ingredients quickly over high heat, so they remained crisp and vibrant. She also showed me how to create a flavorful sauce using soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I marveled at how the simple combination of shrimp, vegetables, and sauce had created such a delicious and satisfying dish. The flavors were bright and fresh, with a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and savory. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, a reminder of my time spent learning from Martha on the west coast.

Over the years, I have made this West Coast Shrimp Stir-fry countless times, each time with a sense of nostalgia for that sunny day in Martha's kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the knowledge and techniques that Martha so generously taught me. And every time I make it, I can't help but smile and think of the incredible journey that led me to discover this delicious dish.

So here it is, my beloved recipe for West Coast Shrimp Stir-fry, a testament to the power of friendship, food, and the joy of learning something new. May it bring you as much happiness and satisfaction as it has brought me over the years. Enjoy!