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Crispy Spicy Shrimp
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PREP TIME
15 min
COOKING TIME
20 min
TOTAL TIME
35 min
SERVINGS
4 servings

Ingredients
- 2 cups peanut oil for frying
- 1 pound peeled and deveined large shrimp
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 large cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon white wine
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 5 teaspoons white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons water
- 5 green onions, sliced
Instructions
1
Heat a generous amount of peanut oil in a large cooking vessel, specifically designed for stir-frying, to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (the temperature at which the oil reaches its smoke point).
2
The key to achieving a perfect sear is to maintain this high temperature.
3
Toss the shrimp with 1/4 cup of cornstarch, carefully coating each piece evenly, before gently placing them into the hot oil. The goal is to create a crispy exterior while keeping the interior tender, and this should take approximately 45 seconds. Once done, carefully remove the shrimp from the oil with a slotted spoon and set them aside on a paper towel-lined surface to drain excess oil.
4
The sooner you remove the shrimp from the oil, the better they will retain their texture.
5
Pour all but 1 tablespoon of the remaining peanut oil from the wok, then stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. The objective is to combine these aromatics in a harmonious balance, allowing their flavors to meld together. Cook and stir constantly until the garlic is fragrant and beginning to develop a rich, caramelized color, approximately 30 seconds.
6
The key to achieving this perfect balance of flavors is to stir constantly and allow the ingredients to cook undisturbed.
7
Pour in a generous amount of wine, vinegar, ketchup, sugar, salt, and 1/4 cup of water into the wok. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
8
The acidity in the vinegar will help balance out the sweetness of the ketchup, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
9
Dissolve 2 teaspoons of water into the cornstarch, then stir it into the boiling sauce. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens, approximately 1 minute.
10
The cornstarch will help thicken the sauce, creating a smooth and velvety texture.
11
Stir the cooked shrimp and green onions into the sauce until they are evenly coated. The result should be a deliciously flavored dish, perfectly balanced in terms of texture and taste.