π€π¦ Asian Shrimp and Lobster Sauce π€π¦
What is it?
Asian Shrimp and Lobster Sauce is a delectable seafood dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich and savory sauce. Despite its name, it typically does not contain lobster; the “lobster sauce” is a velvety, egg-based sauce with a slightly sweet and umami flavor. This dish is commonly served in Chinese-American cuisine and is a favorite among seafood lovers.
History:
The origins of this dish are rooted in Chinese-American cuisine, and its precise history is a bit murky. It likely emerged in the United States as a fusion of traditional Chinese flavors with local ingredients. The term “lobster sauce” might have been used to make the dish sound more luxurious, but it traditionally doesn’t include lobster meat. It’s believed to have gained popularity in Chinese-American restaurants in the mid-20th century.
Components:
The main components of Asian Shrimp and Lobster Sauce include:
- Fresh shrimp: Ideally, large, peeled, and deveined.
- Eggs: Whisked to create the silky sauce.
- Black bean sauce: A key flavor component with a salty, fermented bean taste.
- Garlic and ginger: For aromatic depth.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: To add liquid to the sauce.
- Cornstarch: Used as a thickening agent.
- Soy sauce: For a hint of saltiness.
- Sugar: To balance the flavors with a touch of sweetness.
- Oil: Typically, vegetable or peanut oil for stir-frying.
Steps to Prepare:
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Prepare the Shrimp: Heat a wok or large pan over high heat, add oil, and stir-fry the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque. Remove and set them aside.
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Prepare the Sauce: In the same pan, add a bit more oil and stir-fry minced garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add the black bean sauce and cook briefly to release its flavors.
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Combine Ingredients: Mix chicken or vegetable broth, soy sauce, and sugar in a bowl. Pour this mixture into the pan, and bring it to a simmer.
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Thicken the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry. Slowly add the slurry to the simmering sauce while stirring constantly. This will thicken the sauce.
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Create the Velvety Sauce: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and slowly pour them into the simmering sauce, stirring gently to create silky ribbons of egg. The eggs should cook quickly.
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Finish with Shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp back into the sauce, and stir to coat them evenly. Simmer for a few minutes to ensure the shrimp are heated through.
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Serve: Once everything is well combined and heated, serve your Asian Shrimp and Lobster Sauce over steamed rice or noodles. You can garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro.
Time Needed:
The preparation and cooking time for this dish is relatively short, usually around 30-40 minutes, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner that’s both delicious and visually appealing. Enjoy! π€π¦π
Here are the approximate nutrition facts and some health information for Asian Shrimp and Lobster Sauce:
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximately 1 cup of cooked shrimp and sauce):
- Calories: Around 300-350 calories
- Protein: 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 4-6 grams
- Fat: 20-25 grams
- Saturated Fat: 3-5 grams
- Cholesterol: 180-220 mg
- Sodium: 1000-1200 mg (mainly from soy sauce and black bean sauce)
Health Information:
- Protein: Shrimp is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Seafood like shrimp contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and reducing inflammation.
- Low in Saturated Fat: This dish is relatively low in saturated fat, which is good for heart health.
- Cholesterol: While it’s relatively high in cholesterol, dietary cholesterol has less impact on blood cholesterol levels than previously thought for most people. If you’re concerned about cholesterol, consider portion control.
- Sodium: The sodium content can be quite high due to soy sauce and black bean sauce. High sodium intake can be a concern for those with high blood pressure, so consider using low-sodium soy sauce or reducing the amount in the recipe.
- Fiber: The dish doesn’t have a high fiber content, so consider serving it with vegetables or alongside a salad to increase fiber intake.
- Nutrient Variety: The dish can be made healthier by adding more vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snow peas, to increase fiber and nutrient variety.
As with any dish, moderation is key. If you have specific dietary requirements or health concerns, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice. Enjoy this dish as part of a balanced diet. π€π¦π½οΈ
