Kung Pao Shrimp

Kung Pao Shrimp is a bold and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with a savory, spicy sauce, crunchy peanuts, and crisp vegetables. Inspired by the classic Sichuan dish, this stir-fry delivers a delicious balance of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors, with the perfect amount of heat from dried chilies. The shrimp is quickly cooked to retain its juicy texture, while the rich sauce coats every bite. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, Kung Pao Shrimp pairs beautifully with steamed rice for a meal that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 4-5 dried red chilies (adjust for spice level)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• ½ cup roasted peanuts
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

For the sauce:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp Sichuan peppercorns (optional for authentic flavor)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Set aside.
2. Cook the shrimp: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and just cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics and vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Stir-fry the dried red chilies, garlic, and ginger for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender.
4. Add the sauce and peanuts: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the prepared sauce, roasted peanuts, and green onions. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce. Add the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce, stirring until it reaches the desired consistency.
5. Serve: Serve the Kung Pao Shrimp hot, garnished with extra green onions, alongside steamed rice.

This Kung Pao Shrimp is a flavorful and spicy dish that’s perfect for a quick, delicious meal with an authentic Asian twist!