Chinese Hunan Shrimp is a tasty dish that’s spicy and full of flavor! Juicy shrimp are cooked with crunchy veggies and a zesty sauce that hits just the right notes.
Every bite is exciting, and if you’re a fan of heat, this dish will not disappoint. I love serving it over rice to soak up all that yummy sauce—so good! 🍚✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Using large shrimp is best for this dish as they hold up well during cooking. You can substitute with chicken or tofu if you prefer a different protein. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Vegetable Oil: Any cooking oil will work, but I recommend using one with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil. If you’re avoiding oil, try water or vegetable broth for stir-frying—just keep an eye on heat levels.
Dried Red Chilies: Adjust these to control heat. If you want less spice, use a pinch of red pepper flakes instead. For a milder approach, you can skip the chilies and just use the chili paste for flavor.
Black Vinegar: This adds a distinct tang. If you can’t find it, rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work as substitutes. Just remember, they’ll change the flavor slightly.
Green Beans: While green beans add crunch, feel free to swap them with bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli. Each will bring a different taste, so choose what you like!
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but there are simple tips to get them just right! Here’s what you need to know:
- Start with a clean, dry surface. Rinse your shrimp and pat them dry with a paper towel; this helps them sear beautifully.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the shrimp in batches if necessary, so they fry evenly and don’t steam.
- Watch for color changes. Shrimp turn from gray to pink as they cook. They’ll also curl into a C shape when done.
- Avoid overcooking. Shrimp only need about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery, so keep a close eye on them!
Using these tips, your shrimp will be deliciously tender and perfectly cooked, making your Hunan Shrimp a hit! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Chinese Hunan Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Hunan Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece ginger, minced
- 4-6 dried red chilies (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
- 3 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Chinese black vinegar (or substitute with rice vinegar)
- 1 tbsp chili paste or sauce (like sambal oelek or chili garlic sauce)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
For Garnish:
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 15 minutes for cooking, making it a quick and easy meal that you can whip up in about 25 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. This helps them cook better. Set them aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Stir-Fry the Shrimp:
In a wok or large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp to the pan and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until they start turning pink and curling up. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
3. Add Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic, ginger, and dried red chilies. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. This step adds amazing flavor!
4. Cook the Vegetables:
Add the trimmed green beans and the white parts of the green onions to the wok. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the green beans are just tender but still crunchy. Keep stirring to make sure they cook evenly.
5. Combine Ingredients:
Return the cooked shrimp to the wok and gently stir to combine everything together.
6. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, black vinegar, chili paste, and sugar. Pour this sauce mixture into the wok, stirring well to coat the shrimp and vegetables evenly.
7. Thicken the Sauce:
Add the cornstarch slurry to the wok, stirring continuously while cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. This will give the dish a delicious coating.
8. Finish and Garnish:
Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top of the shrimp and stir in the green parts of the green onions for a fresh touch.
9. Serve:
Remove the wok from heat and serve your Chinese Hunan Shrimp immediately over a bed of steamed white rice to soak up that amazing sauce.
Enjoy your flavorful, spicy, and vibrant Chinese Hunan Shrimp! 🥢✨
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best method is to place them in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for quick thawing. Pat them dry before cooking to ensure a good sear.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you want to decrease the heat, simply reduce the number of dried red chilies or use milder chili paste. Conversely, if you’re looking to add more spice, include more chilies or a spicier chili paste.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep some components ahead of time. Chop your vegetables, marinate the shrimp, and mix the sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and stir-fry them together when ready to serve!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a pan over medium heat to warm it up gently, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent it from drying out.