Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more? Look no further than the mouthwatering combo of shrimp recipes and lobster recipes known as Shrimp in Lobster Sauce! Despite its fancy name, it is surprisingly very easy to make and every mouthful is bursting with flavor. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your friends and family with your newfound cooking skills with this delectable shrimp in lobster sauce.
Origins of Shrimp in Lobster Sauce
Shrimp in Lobster Sauce has a fascinating history that spans centuries and continents. While its name might suggest a luxurious meal fit for royalty, its origins are humble and rooted in none other than Chinese cuisine. Historically, the dish was made with ground pork and fermented black beans, giving it a rich and savory flavor. However, over time this dish was brought to various parts of the world and so it evolved to include shrimp and other ingredients more readily available in West. Today, shrimp in lobster sauce is enjoyed in Chinese restaurants all over the globe, offering a taste of tradition with a modern twist.
What You’ll Need
Let’s start with the ingredients. Don’t worry; you won’t need anything too exotic. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 1 pound of medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground white pepper
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup of frozen peas, thawed
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Cooked rice, for serving
Let’s Get Cooking
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat dry the shrimp using paper towels. This will help them cook evenly and get a nice sear.
- Sear the Shrimp: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate and set aside when cooked.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, then add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Next, pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and ground white pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the skillet, stirring constantly. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the lobster sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the Eggs: Slowly pour the beaten eggs into the skillet while stirring the sauce gently. The eggs will cook quickly and create beautiful ribbons throughout the lobster sauce.
- Finish it Off: Once the eggs are cooked, add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet, along with the thawed peas and sliced green onions. Stir everything together and let it cook for another minute or two, just until everything is heated through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the skillet from the heat and serve your delicious shrimp in lobster sauce over cooked rice. You may garnish it with extra sliced green onions if desired.
Why You’ll Love It
Now that your Shrimp in Lobster Sauce is ready to serve, it’s time to dig in and enjoy! Following are the reasons why you will love this dish:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory soy sauce, aromatic garlic, and delicate shrimp creates a flavor profile that’s out of this world.
- Easy to Make: Despite its fancy name, this dish is surprisingly simple to make. With just a few basic ingredients and some easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a gourmet meal on the table in no time.
- Customizable: You can get creative and customize this dish to suit your taste preferences. Add extra veggies or swap the shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different twist.
- Impress Your Guests: Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining friends and family, shrimp in lobster sauce is sure to impress. They will never know how easy it was to whip!
So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen and whip up a batch of shrimp in lobster sauce tonight.
Serving Suggestions
While shrimp in lobster sauce is traditionally served over steamed white rice, don't be afraid to get creative with your serving options. Try serving it over cooked noodles for a delicious pasta dish, or alongside steamed vegetables for a lighter option. For a more indulgent meal, pair it with fried rice or crispy wontons. Moreover, garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced red chili for a pop of color and flavor.
Make it Your Own
One of the best things about shrimp in lobster sauce is its versatility. Hence, feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free option, use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce. If you're vegetarian or vegan, substitute tofu or tempeh for the shrimp and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also experiment with different vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or water chestnuts for added texture and flavor.
Tips and Tricks
- When selecting shrimp, look for ones that are firm, shiny, and have a mild, oceanic smell. Avoid shrimp with a strong ammonia odor, as this indicates they may be past their prime.
- To devein shrimp, use a sharp knife or kitchen shears to make a shallow slit along the back of each shrimp and remove the dark vein with the tip of the knife or a toothpick.
- To achieve a perfect sear on the shrimp, make sure the skillet or wok is hot before adding them. Cook the shrimp in a single layer and resist the urge to overcrowd the pan, as this can cause them to steam instead of sear.
- Keep tasting the sauce and adjust the seasoning. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha sauce.
Health Benefits
Shrimp in Lobster Sauce is not only delicious but also nutritious. Shrimp is a lean source of protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or build muscle. It is also low in calories and contains essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium. Garlic is another key ingredient in the dish with immune-boosting properties and will help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Peas add fiber and additional vitamins to the dish, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can use either for this recipe. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking, either by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water for a few minutes.
Conclusion
Shrimp in Lobster Sauce is a delightful dish that marries the flavors of the sea with savory and aromatic ingredients to create a culinary masterpiece. Despite its name, this recipe is easy to whip and can be customized to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences.
From its humble origins in Chinese cuisine to its modern-day popularity on dinner tables around the world, shrimp in lobster sauce has stood the test of time as a beloved comfort food that never fails to satisfy. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a delicious meal to enjoy with loved ones, this dish is sure to impress.
So, the next time you're in the mood for something flavorful and fulfilling, why not give shrimp in lobster sauce a try? With its rich history, versatile ingredients, and endless possibilities for customization, it's a dish that's bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
