Kung Pao Shrimp is a beloved Chinese dish known for its spicy, sweet, and savory flavors. This dish combines succulent shrimp with a mix of vegetables, peanuts, and dried red chiles, all tossed in a rich and tangy Kung Pao sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, Kung Pao Shrimp offers a delightful burst of flavors that will excite your taste buds. Follow these simple steps to create this classic dish at home.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 3/4 lbs shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup zucchini, cubed
- 1/3 cup red bell peppers, sliced
- 1/3 cup canned water chestnuts, sliced
- 1/3 cup peanuts
- 10-14 dried red chiles
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 8-12 slices ginger (or use 1/4 tsp ginger powder)
- 1 1/2 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 1/2 tbsp vegetable oil (or more if needed)
For the Kung Pao Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or light soy sauce
- 2 tsp dark soy sauce
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 4 tsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp water
- 2 tsp corn starch
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 teaspoons of dark soy sauce, 3 tablespoons of sugar, 4 teaspoons of rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons of water, 2 teaspoons of corn starch, and 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil. Mix well until the sugar and corn starch are fully dissolved. Set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- Ensure the shrimp are peeled, deveined, and cleaned. Use a paper towel to gently blot them dry.
- Stir-Fry the Aromatics:
- Warm up 1 1/2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok, setting the stove to medium-high heat. Add the dried red chiles and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until they start to darken slightly.
- Add the minced garlic, ginger slices (or ginger powder), and chopped green onions. Continue to stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds until the aroma becomes noticeably more intense.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to turn pink and opaque.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Add the cubed zucchini, sliced red bell peppers, and canned water chestnuts to the skillet. Continue to stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they reach a tender-crisp texture.
- Combine with Sauce and Peanuts:
- Pour the prepared Kung Pao sauce over the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Add the peanuts and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the shrimp and vegetables evenly.
- Serve:
- Transfer the Kung Pao Shrimp to a serving dish. If preferred, sprinkle extra chopped green onions as a garnish. Serve the dish hot, paired with either steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Kung Pao Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings together a medley of flavors and textures in every bite. With its spicy chiles, crunchy peanuts, and savory-sweet sauce, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, Kung Pao Shrimp is an easy and flavorful way to enjoy a classic Chinese favorite right at home. Enjoy the vibrant tastes and aromas of this delicious dish!