Burmese Okra and Shrimp Stir-Fry
A vibrant and quick stir-fry featuring tender okra and succulent shrimp, brought together with aromatic garlic, ginger, and a hint of chili. This dish showcases the fresh flavors and simple preparation common in Burmese home cooking.
🧂 Ingredients
- 250 g Okra(wiped clean and sliced into 1/4 inch rounds)
- 200 g Fresh shrimp(peeled and deveined)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tbsp Ginger(minced)
- 1-2 Green chilies(minced, or to taste)
- 1/2 tbsp Shrimp paste(optional, for deeper flavor)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp Fish sauce
- to taste Salt
- 1 tsp Sugar
- 1/4 cup Cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the okra: Wipe the okra clean, trim the ends, and slice into 1/4-inch rounds. If the okra is particularly slimy, you can briefly blanch it in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes, then shock in ice water to reduce sliminess, and drain well.
- 2
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, minced ginger, minced green chilies, and shrimp paste (if using).
- 3
Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the garlic-ginger-chili paste and stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4
Add the sliced okra to the pan. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the okra is tender-crisp. Be careful not to overcook, as it can become mushy.
- 5
Add the shrimp to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
- 6
Stir in the fish sauce, sugar, and salt to taste. Toss everything together to combine.
- 7
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve immediately with steamed rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the okra is dry before slicing to minimize sliminess.
- ✓Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili to your preferred spice level.
- ✓Shrimp paste adds a distinct umami flavor, but can be omitted if preferred.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add thinly sliced shallots along with the garlic and ginger.
- A splash of lime juice at the end can add a bright, fresh note.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the shrimp and shrimp paste, and consider adding firm tofu.