Name: Kung Pao Shrimp: 5 Secrets for a Flavorful Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: ¼ cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons water; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ medium red onion, cut into cubes; ½ medium red bell pepper, cut into cubes; ½ medium yellow bell pepper, cut into cubes; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 8-10 whole dried red chilis; 1½ lbs jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; ¼ cup roasted peanuts; 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)

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Kung Pao Shrimp has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. This vibrant and spicy Chinese stir-fry features succulent shrimp, crunchy bell peppers, and roasted peanuts, all tossed in a savory-sweet tangy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s both quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. The combination of textures and tastes makes it an irresistible dish that pairs beautifully with steamed rice. Ready to dive into this delightful recipe? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Kung Pao Shrimp

This Kung Pao Shrimp recipe is not only delicious but also comes with several benefits that make it a go-to meal. First, it takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick Kung Pao Shrimp dinner. Second, it’s packed with protein, boasting around 30g per serving, making it a healthy choice. Third, the dish is gluten-free, accommodating various dietary needs. Additionally, the use of fresh vegetables like bell peppers adds color and nutrients, while the peanuts provide a satisfying crunch. Plus, it’s customizable; you can easily adjust the spice level according to your preference. Whether you’re looking for a spicy shrimp stir-fry or a classic Sichuan shrimp dish, this recipe is a home run!

Ingredients for Kung Pao Shrimp

Gather these items:

¼ cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ medium red onion, cut into cubes
½ medium red bell pepper, cut into cubes
½ medium yellow bell pepper, cut into cubes
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
8-10 whole dried red chilis
1½ lbs jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ cup roasted peanuts
2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)

How to Make Kung Pao Shrimp Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, water, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Whisk well until the sugar and cornstarch are dissolved. Set aside.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced red onion and bell peppers, then sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onion softens but vegetables remain crisp-tender.
Step 3: Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and dried red chilis, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning with salt and black pepper. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they turn opaque and are just cooked through.
Step 4: Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the shrimp and vegetables, then add the roasted peanuts. Stir to combine and let everything simmer for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients nicely.
Step 5: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve immediately over steamed rice to enjoy a hot and savory Kung Pao Shrimp meal.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Kung Pao Shrimp

Keep these in mind:

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Adjust the quantity of dried red chilis based on your heat preference.
For an authentic touch, try adding Sichuan peppercorns.
This recipe is a gluten-free Kung Pao Shrimp option, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Stir-frying quickly over high heat is key to maintaining the shrimp’s juiciness.

Best Ways to Serve Kung Pao Shrimp

There are plenty of ways to enjoy your Kung Pao Shrimp. Serve it over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a classic meal. Pair it with a side of stir-fried vegetables for added nutrition. You can also enjoy it in lettuce wraps for a fun twist on serving. Each option allows you to savor the delightful flavors of this Asian shrimp recipe.

Kung Pao Shrimp: 5 Secrets for a Flavorful Dinner - Kung Pao Shrimp - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Kung Pao Shrimp

After enjoying your meal, any leftover Kung Pao Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. This dish is great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal even on busy days.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kung Pao Shrimp

What’s the secret to perfect Kung Pao Shrimp?

The secret to perfect Kung Pao Shrimp lies in using high heat and fresh ingredients. Stir-frying quickly ensures the shrimp stay juicy while the vegetables retain their crisp texture. Adjusting the spice level with dried chilis also enhances the dish’s flavor.

Can I make Kung Pao Shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chop your vegetables ahead of time. However, it’s best to cook the shrimp fresh to maintain its texture and flavor. You can store the cooked dish in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Kung Pao Shrimp?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that the skillet is hot enough before adding the ingredients. Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as this can make them rubbery. Lastly, do not skip the peanuts; they add essential crunch and flavor.

Variations of Kung Pao Shrimp You Can Try

If you want to switch things up with your Kung Pao Shrimp, consider these variations: add more vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for extra nutrition. You can also substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein source. For a lower-calorie option, use less sugar in the sauce. Each variation retains the essence of this classic Sichuan shrimp dish while offering new flavors to explore.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Honey Garlic Shrimp for a sweet twist. If you’re interested in more Asian-inspired dishes, don’t miss our Thai Red Curry Shrimp recipe!