Gong Bao Xia Ren
Kung Pao Shrimp
A classic Sichuan stir-fry featuring plump shrimp, crunchy peanuts, and a vibrant sweet, sour, and spicy sauce. This shrimp version is often considered lighter and quicker to prepare than its chicken counterpart.
🧂 Ingredients
- 400 g Large shrimp
- 60 g Roasted unsalted peanuts(If using raw peanuts, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes, then let cool.)
- 10-15 Dried red chilies
- 1 tsp Sichuan peppercorns
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 1 tbsp Fresh ginger
- 2 tbsp Chinkiang vinegar (Chinese black vinegar)(Rice vinegar can be substituted, but Chinkiang offers a deeper flavor.)
- 2 tbsp Soy sauce(Use light soy sauce for best results.)
- 1 tbsp Sugar(Granulated or brown sugar.)
- 1 tsp Shaoxing wine (optional)(Adds depth of flavor to the shrimp marinade.)
- 1 tsp Cornstarch(For marinating shrimp.)
- 1 tsp Sesame oil(For the sauce.)
- 2-3 tbsp Cooking oil(Such as peanut, canola, or vegetable oil.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, toss the shrimp with Shaoxing wine (if using) and cornstarch until lightly coated. Set aside. Mince the garlic and ginger. Snap the dried chilies in half and shake out the seeds (discard seeds or save for another use if you prefer less heat).
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the Chinkiang vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Set aside.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 3
Infuse the oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the dried chilies and Sichuan peppercorns. Stir-fry for about 30-60 seconds, until the chilies darken slightly and become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, as this will make them bitter. Remove the chilies and peppercorns with a slotted spoon and discard (or reserve for garnish if desired).
⏱️ 1 minute - 4
Cook the aromatics and shrimp: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the infused oil in the wok. Stir-fry for about 15-30 seconds until fragrant. Add the prepared shrimp in a single layer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Do not overcook.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 5
Combine and finish: Pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp. Add the roasted peanuts. Toss everything together quickly to coat evenly and allow the sauce to thicken slightly, about 1-2 minutes. If the sauce seems too thick, add a teaspoon of water.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 6
Serve immediately: Transfer the Kung Pao shrimp to a serving platter. Garnish with extra peanuts or a few of the reserved fried chilies if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Shrimp cook very quickly; watch them closely to prevent overcooking, which can make them tough.
- ✓The key to fragrant chilies is to fry them until they release their aroma but before they turn dark brown or black. Burnt chilies will impart a bitter taste.
- ✓Achieving the right balance of sweet, sour, and spicy is crucial. Adjust the vinegar, soy sauce, and chili amount to your preference.
- ✓Ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready before you start stir-frying, as the cooking process is very fast.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For Kung Pao Chicken: Substitute 400g of boneless, skinless chicken thigh or breast, cut into bite-sized pieces, for the shrimp. Marinate the chicken with 1 tsp soy sauce, 1 tsp Shaoxing wine, and 1 tsp cornstarch before cooking.
- For a nut-free version: Omit the peanuts.
- For a different nut: Cashews or almonds can be used instead of peanuts.
- Add vegetables: Include diced bell peppers (any color), zucchini, or celery during step 4 for added texture and flavor.