Chinese Hunan Shrimp is a zesty dish full of flavor! Juicy shrimp are tossed with fresh veggies and a spicy sauce that gives it a delightful kick. Perfect for those who love a little heat!
I can’t help but smile when this dish is on the table. Pair it with some rice and watch everyone eagerly devour it. It’s a real crowd-pleaser, and it’s easy to whip up on a weeknight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, fresh shrimp are the star here! If you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp can work, just thaw them properly before use. For a different protein, try chicken or tofu as a substitution!
Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan): This adds a lovely crunch and flavor. If you can’t find it, asparagus or even regular broccoli is a good alternative. Just adjust the cooking time based on the veg you choose.
Soy Sauce: A key ingredient that brings umami. You can use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching salt intake, or a gluten-free tamari for those with dietary restrictions.
Shaoxing Wine: This adds depth. If you don’t have it, dry sherry makes a good swap. For a non-alcoholic option, try using vegetable broth instead.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp can be a bit tricky – they cook quickly! Here’s how to ensure they are just right:
- Start with a hot wok or skillet. This helps get a nice sear on the shrimp.
- Pat the shrimp dry to prevent steaming. Moisture can lead to soggy shrimp.
- Cook them for about 2 minutes or until they just begin to turn pink. Overcooked shrimp can be rubbery, so keep an eye on them!
Following these tips will lead you to juicy, tender shrimp every time!
How to Make Chinese Hunan Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 2-3 dried red chilies or 1-2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups Chinese broccoli (gai lan) or asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 green onions, sliced (separate white and green parts)
For The Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (Chinese cooking wine) or dry sherry
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce or Sriracha (optional for extra heat)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- Cooked white jasmine rice or steamed rice, to serve
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take you about 10 minutes to prep and about 10 minutes to cook, for a total of around 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Start by patting the shrimp dry with a paper towel. This helps them sear better in the pan. Once they’re dry, set aside.
2. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce (if you like it spicy), sugar, and broth. Stir it well and set it aside for later.
3. Heat the Pan
In a large wok or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s hot enough when the oil shimmers.
4. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the dried red chilies (or chili flakes) to the hot oil and stir-fry for about 30 seconds. Then, add the white parts of the green onions, minced garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry everything for another 30 seconds until it smells great!
5. Cook the Shrimp
Now, toss in the shrimp and stir-fry them for about 2 minutes, or until they start to turn pink. Make sure to keep them moving around in the pan!
6. Add the Vegetables
Next, add the Chinese broccoli or asparagus. Keep stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes until the veggies are bright green and a bit tender.
7. Add the Sauce
Pour your prepared sauce mixture into the pan and bring it to a simmer. This is where all those flavors come together!
8. Thicken the Sauce
Stir in the cornstarch slurry you made earlier. This will thicken the sauce nicely. Cook for another minute until it looks glossy.
9. Finish and Garnish
Take it off the heat and sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and the green parts of the green onions on top.
10. Serve
Plate your delicious Hunan shrimp over the cooked jasmine rice. Enjoy your spicy, flavorful meal!
Enjoy every bite of your homemade Chinese Hunan Shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator or use cold water to speed up the process. Pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the pan.
What If I Can’t Find Chinese Broccoli?
No worries! If you can’t find Chinese broccoli (gai lan), asparagus or regular broccoli makes a great substitute. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary based on the vegetable you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the dish gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Adjust the Spiciness Level?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the number of dried red chilies or the amount of chili garlic sauce to match your heat preference. You can also omit the spicy ingredients altogether for a milder dish.