Shanghainese cuisine, known for its emphasis on fresh ingredients and delicate flavors, offers a myriad of dishes that showcase the vibrant culinary landscape of Shanghai. One celebrated dish that exemplifies this cuisine is StirFried River Shrimps. Enjoyed for their sweet and succulent taste, these shrimps are not only a local favorite but also a staple in many households. This article will guide you through the essential ingredients required to prepare this iconic dish at home.
Ingredient Requirements:
For a perfect StirFried River Shrimps dish, gathering the right ingredients is crucial. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. River Shrimps (300 grams): Fresh river shrimps are the star of this dish. Look for live or fresh ones, as their sweetness is unmatched.
2. Garlic (3 cloves): Finely chopped, garlic elevates the flavor and adds a fragrant aroma to the dish.
3. Ginger (1 small piece): Sliced or minced ginger balances the sweetness of the shrimp with its spicy warmth.
4. Green Onions (2 stalks): Chopped green onions not only add color but also a mild onion flavor.
5. Soy Sauce (1 tablespoon): A staple in Chinese cooking, soy sauce adds umami and enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile.
6. Sugar (1 teaspoon): A hint of sugar helps to balance the savory notes in the dish while bringing out the natural sweetness of the shrimps.
7. Cooking Oil (2 tablespoons): Use a neutral oil like vegetable oil for frying, making sure to choose one with a high smoke point.
8. Salt and Pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings that elevate the dish, adjusting them to your preference.
9. Chili Peppers (optional): For those who enjoy heat, adding sliced chili peppers can provide a delightful kick.
10. Cooking Wine (Shaoxing wine or dry sherry, 1 tablespoon): Enhance the aroma of the dish with a splash of cooking wine.
Cooking Instructions:
1. Preparation:
Begin by rinsing the river shrimps thoroughly under running water to remove any grit. If your shrimps still have their shells, feel free to leave them on for a more rustic experience.
Mince the garlic and ginger, chop the green onions, and rinse the chili peppers if using.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a wok or large frying pan over mediumhigh heat.
Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing them until aromatic, but be careful not to let them burn.
3. StirFry the Shrimps:
Introduce the river shrimps to the wok, and toss them quickly to ensure they’re evenly coated in the oil and aromatics.
Stirfry for about 23 minutes, allowing the shrimps to turn a beautiful pink color, indicating they are cooked.
4. Seasoning:
As the shrimps cook, sprinkle in the soy sauce, and sugar, and add a splash of cooking wine.
Stir everything together, allowing the shrimp to soak up the flavors. Adjust with salt and pepper to your liking.
5. Finishing Touches:
Just before removing the dish from the heat, add in the chopped green onions and chili peppers, giving them a brief stir to wilt and integrate into the dish.
6. Serve:
Transfer the stirfried river shrimps to a serving plate and garnish with additional green onions if desired. Enjoy it with steamed rice for a truly delightful Shanghainese meal.
StirFried River Shrimps not only highlight the freshness of the local seafood but also embody the harmonious flavors typical of Shanghainese cuisine. With relatively simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can recreate this beloved dish in your kitchen and take a delicious journey to the heart of Shanghai.