This Thai-Style Ginger and Sweet Red Chili Shrimp recipe is a delightful blend of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors. The fresh ginger and sweet red chili sauce give the dish an authentic Thai kick, while the succulent shrimp add a satisfying savory note.
The ingredients for this recipe are quite straightforward, but there are a couple of items that might need a special trip to the supermarket. Thai sweet red chili sauce and Asian/toasted sesame oil might not be in your regular pantry stash but can usually be found in the international aisle of most grocery stores. Fresh ginger is also essential for this recipe; its distinctive flavor cannot be replicated by powders or substitutes.
Ingredients for Thai-Style Ginger and Sweet Red Chili Shrimp
Extra large shrimp: The star of this dish, adds a tender, succulent texture.
Dry sherry: Enhances the flavor of the shrimp.
Peanut oil: Used for stir-frying, it adds a mild nutty flavor.
Fresh ginger: Provides a spicy, aromatic heat.
Garlic: Adds depth and savoriness to the dish.
Thai sweet red chili sauce: Gives a sweet spice to the dish.
Jalapeno pepper: Adds a kick of heat.
Soy sauce: Gives a salty, umami flavor.
Scallions: Adds a fresh, oniony crunch.
Red bell pepper: Provides a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
Asian/toasted sesame oil: Gives a distinctive nutty flavor.
One reader, Karl Milton says:
This Thai-style ginger and sweet red chili shrimp recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are a delightful fusion of sweet and spicy, and the shrimp are perfectly tender. The recipe is easy to follow, and the end result is simply mouthwatering. I highly recommend trying it out!
Essential Techniques for Making Thai-Style Ginger and Sweet Red Chili Shrimp
How to marinate shrimp: Place the shrimp in a bowl with the dry sherry and salt and marinate for 30 minutes, tossing every so often.
How to stir-fry shrimp: Heat a large wok or skillet until very hot. Add peanut oil and heat until sizzling. Add the shrimp in batches, stir-frying until just pink but not cooked through.
How to work with jalapeño peppers: When working with jalapeño peppers, be careful to minimize contact with the seeds. Simply cut the flesh off the seeds and stem, then chop the flesh. If you touch the seeds, wash your hands well.
How to grate fresh ginger: Peel the ginger root and rub it along a rasp or fine grater to grate it. Be cautious to avoid grating your fingers.
How To Make Thai-Style Ginger and Sweet Red Chili Shrimp
Juicy and plump shrimp, tossed in a rich ginger, jalapeno, and sweet red chili sauce, makes up this lusciously filling chili shrimp dish!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2lbsextra large shrimp,peeled and deveined, thawed if frozen
- 2tbspdry sherry
- ¼tspsalt
- ¼cuppeanut oil,divided
- 1½tbspfresh ginger,finely grated
- 3garlic cloves,minced
- 2tbspThai sweet red chili sauce
- 1tbspjalapeño pepper,finely chopped, seeded
- ½cupwater
- 1tspsoy sauce
- 4scallions,green parts only, thinly sliced
- 2tbspred bell pepper,finely chopped
- ¼tspAsian sesame oil,(toasted)
Instructions
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Place the shrimp in a bowl with the dry sherry and salt and marinate for 30 minutes; toss every so often.
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Heat a large wok or 12-inch skillet until very hot. While the pan is heating, lay the shrimp out on paper towels and pat dry.
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Add 2 tablespoons of the peanut oil to the pan and heat until sizzling. Add half of the shrimp to the pan and stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes, until just pink but not cooked through.
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Transfer the partially cooked shrimp to a plate, then add the remaining 2 tablespoons of peanut oil to the pan and heat until sizzling. Then, add the remaining shrimp and stir-fry like the first batch.
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When the shrimp are just pink but not cooked through, add the reserved shrimp back to the pan along with the ginger, garlic, sweet red chili sauce and jalapeño peppers; stir-fry for about 1 minute more. Add the water, soy sauce, scallions and bell peppers and cook for 1 to 2 minutes more, until the shrimp are cooked through. Do not overcook.
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Use a slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp to a serving dish. Continue to cook the sauce until slightly thickened. Turn off the heat, stir in the sesame oil, and then pour over the shrimp.
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Serve with jasmine rice, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 204.89kcal
- Fat: 10.79g
- Saturated Fat: 1.95g
- Trans Fat: 0.03g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.51g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.43g
- Carbohydrates: 3.82g
- Fiber: 0.43g
- Sugar: 0.56g
- Protein: 21.03g
- Cholesterol: 190.51mg
- Sodium: 1031.95mg
- Calcium: 93.78mg
- Potassium: 234.69mg
- Iron: 0.57mg
- Vitamin A: 92.40µg
- Vitamin C: 11.01mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Thai-Style Ginger and Sweet Red Chili Shrimp
When stir-frying shrimp, it's crucial to avoid overcooking them as they can quickly become tough and rubbery. The key is to cook them until they just turn pink and then remove them from the heat immediately. This will ensure your shrimp are tender and juicy. Additionally, when adding your ginger and garlic, be sure to stir them quickly to prevent them from burning and developing a bitter taste. Lastly, when thickening your sauce, remember to reduce the heat to low and stir continuously to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Thai Shrimp Recipe
Marinate efficiently: To save time, marinate the shrimp in a resealable plastic bag instead of a bowl. This allows for even distribution of the marinade and quick cleanup.
Prep ahead: Peel and devein the shrimp the night before and store them in the refrigerator. This will significantly cut down on prep time when you're ready to cook.
Organize ingredients: Before you start cooking, measure out all the ingredients and have them ready to go. This will streamline the cooking process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.
Use frozen shrimp: Opt for high-quality frozen shrimp that are already peeled and deveined. This eliminates the time-consuming task of preparing fresh shrimp.
Substitute Ingredients For Thai-Style Ginger and Sweet Red Chili Shrimp Recipe
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extra large shrimp – Substitute with large prawns: Large prawns are a suitable substitute for extra large shrimp, as they have a similar texture and flavor profile, and they will work well in this recipe.
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dry sherry – Substitute with rice vinegar: Rice vinegar can be used as a substitute for dry sherry to add a tangy, slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
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peanut oil – Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute for peanut oil, as it has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it suitable for stir-frying.
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thai sweet red chili sauce – Substitute with sriracha and honey mix: A combination of sriracha and honey can be used as a substitute for Thai sweet red chili sauce to achieve a similar sweet and spicy flavor profile.
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jalapeno pepper – Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano pepper can be used as a substitute for jalapeno pepper to add heat and flavor to the dish.
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soy sauce – Substitute with tamari: Tamari, a gluten-free soy sauce, can be used as a substitute for soy sauce to add savory, umami flavor to the dish.
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red bell pepper – Substitute with orange bell pepper: Orange bell pepper can be used as a substitute for red bell pepper to add a sweet and colorful element to the dish.
Presentation Tips for a Stunning Thai Shrimp Dish
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Elevate the shrimp: Arrange the shrimp in a circular pattern on the plate, slightly overlapping each other to create a visually appealing presentation. This will showcase the vibrant colors of the dish and highlight the star ingredient, the succulent shrimp.
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Garnish with scallions and red bell peppers: Finely chop the scallions and red bell peppers and sprinkle them over the shrimp. The vibrant green and red colors will add a pop of freshness and visual appeal to the dish, creating a stunning contrast against the pink shrimp.
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Drizzle with sweet red chili sauce: Use a squeeze bottle to create a delicate drizzle of the sweet red chili sauce around the edge of the plate. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also infuses the dish with a burst of sweet and spicy flavors.
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Serve with jasmine rice: Mold the jasmine rice into a small round shape using a ramekin or a small bowl, then carefully unmold it onto the plate next to the shrimp. The fluffy white rice will complement the vibrant colors of the dish and provide a visually pleasing balance.
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Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds: Lightly sprinkle the dish with toasted sesame seeds to add a subtle nutty flavor and a delightful crunch. The sesame seeds will also contribute to the overall visual appeal, creating an enticing texture on the plate.
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Use a minimalist plating approach: Embrace a minimalist plating style by allowing the natural colors and textures of the dish to take center stage. Keep the presentation clean and uncluttered, allowing the vibrant ingredients to shine through.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Thai-Style Ginger and Sweet Red Chili Shrimp
- Cutting board: A flat surface for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife for various cutting tasks.
- Wok or 12-inch skillet: A large, curved cooking vessel for stir-frying and sautéing.
- Paper towels: Absorbent paper for drying the shrimp before cooking.
- Slotted spoon: A spoon with slots or holes for draining liquid when serving the shrimp.
- Grater or rasp: Used for grating fresh ginger.
- Rice cooker or pot: For cooking jasmine rice to serve with the shrimp.
- Measuring spoons and cups: For accurate measurement of ingredients.
- Cooking spatula: For stirring and flipping the shrimp while cooking.
- Small bowl: For marinating the shrimp with dry sherry and salt.
- Plate: For transferring the partially cooked shrimp.
- Wok spatula or tongs: For stir-frying and handling the shrimp in the wok or skillet.
Storing and Freezing Instructions for Thai-Style Shrimp
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To store leftover thai-style ginger and sweet red chili shrimp, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
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When reheating, ensure that the shrimp is heated through thoroughly to avoid any food safety concerns. You can reheat the dish in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
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If you want to freeze the thai-style ginger and sweet red chili shrimp, it's best to do so without the bell peppers and scallions, as these vegetables may become soggy upon thawing. Cook the dish as directed, omitting the peppers and scallions, and allow it to cool completely.
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Transfer the cooled shrimp and sauce to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and contents.
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Freeze the thai-style ginger and sweet red chili shrimp for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight.
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Reheat the thawed shrimp in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Once heated through, add freshly chopped bell peppers and scallions to the dish for optimal texture and flavor. Serve with freshly cooked jasmine rice.
How To Reheat Leftover Thai-Style Shrimp
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To reheat leftover thai-style ginger and sweet red chili shrimp, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat the shrimp for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the shrimp from drying out.
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Alternatively, you can reheat the shrimp in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of peanut oil or sesame oil to the skillet and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp and stir-fry them for 2-3 minutes, or until they are heated through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can quickly become tough and rubbery.
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If you have leftover jasmine rice to serve with the shrimp, you can reheat it in the microwave. Place the rice in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave it on high for 1-2 minutes, or until it is heated through. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
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For a quick and easy lunch, you can also use the leftover shrimp to make a Thai-inspired salad. Toss the shrimp with some mixed greens, sliced cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers. Drizzle the salad with a mixture of lime juice, fish sauce, and a touch of sweet red chili sauce for a zesty and flavorful dressing.
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If you want to get creative with your leftovers, try using the shrimp as a filling for spring rolls or lettuce wraps. Simply wrap the shrimp, along with some rice noodles, fresh herbs, and vegetables, in a softened rice paper wrapper or lettuce leaf. Serve the rolls with a side of sweet red chili sauce for dipping.
Interesting Fact About Thai-Style Ginger and Sweet Red Chili Shrimp
Thai-style ginger and sweet red chili shrimp recipe is a popular dish in Thai cuisine. It combines the bold flavors of ginger, garlic, and sweet red chili sauce with succulent shrimp. The use of dry sherry in the marinade adds depth to the dish, while the addition of jalapeño peppers provides a hint of heat. This recipe showcases the vibrant and diverse flavors of Thai cooking, offering a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements. It's a delightful dish that can be enjoyed with fragrant jasmine rice, making it a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Is Making Thai-Style Shrimp at Home Cost-Effective?
This Thai-style ginger and sweet red chili shrimp recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of shrimp and ginger may be pricier, but the dish's bold flavors and the ability to stretch the meal with rice make it a worthwhile investment. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $25-$30. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, considering the vibrant flavors and the ability to cater to various dietary preferences.
Is This Thai-Style Shrimp Dish Healthy?
This Thai-style ginger and sweet red chili shrimp recipe is relatively healthy, but there are a few aspects that could be improved:
Positives:
- Shrimp is a lean protein source, low in calories and rich in nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids
- Ginger and garlic offer anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties
- Red bell peppers provide vitamin C and antioxidants
- The recipe uses a moderate amount of oil for stir-frying
Negatives:
- The sweet red chili sauce may contain added sugars, increasing the overall sugar content of the dish
- Soy sauce is high in sodium, which could be a concern for those watching their salt intake
- The recipe doesn't include a significant source of fiber, which is important for digestive health and satiety
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Opt for a low-sodium soy sauce or replace it with coconut aminos for a lower-sodium alternative
- Look for a sweet red chili sauce with minimal added sugars, or prepare your own using fresh red chilies, garlic, vinegar, and a touch of honey
- Increase the vegetable content by adding more bell peppers, onions, or other nutrient-dense vegetables like broccoli or bok choy
- Serve the shrimp alongside a fiber-rich whole grain like brown rice or quinoa to boost the overall fiber content of the meal
- Use a heart-healthy oil like avocado oil or coconut oil for stir-frying, as they are more stable at high temperatures compared to peanut oil
Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on This Thai-Style Shrimp Dish
This Thai-style ginger and sweet red chili shrimp recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors. The combination of ginger, garlic, and Thai sweet red chili sauce creates a harmonious balance of heat and sweetness, while the jalapeño peppers add a subtle kick. The cooking technique ensures the shrimp are perfectly cooked and tender. The use of scallions and red bell peppers adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Overall, this recipe promises a tantalizing and aromatic dish that will surely impress your guests.
Why trust this Thai-Style Ginger and Sweet Red Chili Shrimp Recipe:
The Thai-style ginger and sweet red chili shrimp recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and aromatics, creating a delightful explosion for your taste buds. The use of fresh ingredients such as ginger and garlic ensures an authentic and vibrant taste. The combination of sweet red chili sauce and jalapeno peppers adds a unique and exciting kick to the dish. The careful instructions and attention to detail in the cooking process guarantee a succulent and flavorful outcome. Trust in the expertise of this recipe to transport your palate to the vibrant streets of Thailand.
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