Hunan Shrimp
Craving a dish that’s both crispy and full of flavor? This Hunan Shrimp recipe delivers just that, with perfectly pan-fried shrimp tossed in a savory-sweet sauce that’s a step above your average takeout.
The combination of tender shrimp, fresh green beans, and a bold, spicy sauce makes this dish irresistible. With a touch of honey and a burst of chili paste, every bite is a perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
Quick and easy to make, Hunan Shrimp is the ideal weeknight dinner that will quickly become a household favorite. Pair it with rice, and you’re all set for a satisfying meal.
Hunan Shrimp Ingredients
For a savory-sweet experience, the rich flavors of Shaoxing wine and soy sauce form the perfect base of the Hunan sauce. The combination of chili paste, garlic, and ginger adds a zesty heat and aromatic depth. Honey balances the spice with a hint of sweetness, while vegetable broth ensures a smooth, velvety sauce that clings to each bite.
Tender shrimp, seasoned and coated in cornstarch, become perfectly crisp when fried, providing a satisfying crunch. Fresh green beans offer a vibrant crunch and balance the dish’s rich flavors, while green onions bring a burst of freshness and brightness as the finishing touch.
Hunan Shrimp Recipe Tips
- Perfecting the Crispiness: To ensure your shrimp have that crispy coating, make sure to pat them dry before tossing them in cornstarch. Excess moisture can prevent the shrimp from crisping up properly. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan when frying—this allows the shrimp to cook evenly and retain that golden crunch.
- Balancing the Sauce: The Hunan sauce is the heart of this dish, and it’s essential to get the right balance between the spicy and sweet components. Adjust the chili paste and honey to suit your taste. For more heat, add extra chili paste, and for a sweeter sauce, increase the honey. Taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance for your palate.
- Vegetable Substitutions: While green beans are the recommended vegetable, you can easily swap them with other stir-fry-friendly veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Just be sure to cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Be mindful of the cooking time as different veggies may require slight adjustments.
What to Serve with Hunan Shrimp
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The delicate fragrance and soft texture of jasmine rice make it an ideal side to soak up the savory-sweet Hunan sauce. Its subtle flavor complements the bold shrimp dish, providing the perfect balance to the dish’s heat and spice.
- Garlic Bok Choy: A quick stir-fry of bok choy with garlic and a splash of soy sauce brings a light, crisp contrast to the richness of the shrimp. The mild bitterness of bok choy enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish while adding a fresh element to the meal.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: Pair Hunan Shrimp with crunchy, golden spring rolls filled with fresh vegetables and a touch of ginger. The lightness of the spring rolls balances the richness of the shrimp, and the crunch adds a satisfying texture to the meal.
FAQ
- Can I make Hunan Shrimp ahead of time? While it’s best to enjoy Hunan Shrimp fresh for the crispiest texture, you can prep the shrimp and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble just before serving.
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Be sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking to prevent excess water, which could affect the crispiness of the coating.
- How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish? If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili paste in the sauce. Alternatively, add more chili paste if you enjoy a spicier dish. Taste-testing as you adjust is the best way to ensure the perfect level of heat.
- Can I substitute the Shaoxing wine with something else? If you can’t find Shaoxing wine, dry sherry or white wine can be used as a substitute. These alternatives won’t replicate the exact flavor but will add a similar depth and complexity to the sauce.
Hunan Shrimp
Ingredients
- Hunan Sauce
- 3 tablespoons Shaoxing wine
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons chili paste
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 teaspoons honey
- ½ cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Stir Fry
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 cups chopped green beans
- ¼ cup sliced green onions plus extra for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the Hunan sauce. In a small bowl, combine Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, chili paste, minced garlic, grated ginger, honey, vegetable broth, and cornstarch. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth, then set aside.
- Next, prepare the shrimp. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Season with salt and pepper, then toss them in cornstarch to coat evenly. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat, and add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure they cook evenly and reach a golden, crispy texture. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the chopped green beans and sauté until they begin to soften and take on a slight brown color. This step should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the shrimp to the pan and pour in the prepared Hunan sauce. Add the sliced green onions and continue stirring. Allow the sauce to cook for another 2-3 minutes, until it thickens and evenly coats the shrimp and vegetables.
- Serve the Hunan Shrimp over a bed of rice and garnish with additional green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish. Enjoy your homemade, flavorful dish!
