This Shrimp with Lobster Sauce is a tasty mix of juicy shrimp and creamy, rich sauce. The blend of flavors makes it a hit for special dinners or just a cozy night in!
The best part? You can whip this up in no time and impress your friends. I love serving it over rice; it soaks up all that delicious sauce. Trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds! 🍚🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh, raw shrimp is essential for this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp works too—just thaw them before cooking. Large or jumbo shrimp are perfect for added texture.
Bacon: It adds a delicious, smoky flavor. However, if you want a lighter option, turkey bacon can be used instead. For a vegetarian version, consider using smoked tofu for that same savory depth.
Fermented Black Beans: They’re optional, but they give the dish an incredible umami punch. If you can’t find them, a dash of soy sauce can also bring some depth, though the taste may vary.
Chicken or Seafood Broth: This gives the sauce richness. For a vegetarian alternative, vegetable broth works well. Low-sodium options are great if you’re watching salt intake.
Shaoxing Wine: It adds an authentic flavor. If unavailable, dry sherry can work as a substitute. You could also replace it with a bit of rice vinegar if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky; you want them juicy, not rubbery! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by heating the pan but avoid overheating; medium heat is best. This prevents your shrimp from getting tough.
- Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes 3-4 minutes, depending on their size. Don’t overcook!
- For extra flavor, add the shrimp directly to the sauce instead of cooking them separately. This helps them absorb all those delicious flavors.
With these tips and adjustments, you’re set to make a fantastic Shrimp with Lobster Sauce that everyone will love! Happy cooking!
How to Make Shrimp With Lobster Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped (separate white and green parts)
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or seafood broth
- 1 tbsp fermented black beans, rinsed and mashed (optional)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- Salt and white pepper to taste
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Shrimp with Lobster Sauce takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and satisfying dish that you can enjoy any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet or wok, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it turns nice and crispy. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the tasty bacon fat in the pan.
2. Stir-Fry the Aromatics:
Add the vegetable oil to the same pan with the bacon fat. Toss in the white parts of the green onions, chopped onion, minced garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry everything for about 2-3 minutes until it’s fragrant and the onions become translucent.
3. Add the Flavor Boosters:
If you’re using fermented black beans, add them now and let them cook for about a minute to release their flavor into the mixture.
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken or seafood broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sugar. Bring everything to a gentle simmer so the flavors can meld together nicely.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce slightly, mixing well to avoid lumps.
6. Cook the Shrimp:
Now, add the shrimp to the sauce and cook until they turn pink and just opaque, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them!
7. Add the Egg:
Slowly pour in the beaten egg while gently stirring the sauce. This will create lovely silky ribbons of egg throughout the dish.
8. Combine It All:
Return the cooked bacon to the pan and toss everything together to combine. Season with salt and white pepper to taste for an extra kick.
9. Final Touch:
Turn off the heat and stir in the green parts of the chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the shrimp and lobster sauce hot over a bed of steamed white rice. Enjoy this delightful dish with friends and family!
This Shrimp with Lobster Sauce is sure to become a favorite with its rich and creamy texture. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water before using them. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Without Bacon?
Yes! You can skip the bacon for a lighter dish or use turkey bacon for a healthier option. For a vegetarian choice, consider using smoked tofu to add some savory depth.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
What Can I Serve With Shrimp with Lobster Sauce?
This dish is delicious served over steamed white rice, but you can also serve it with noodles or quinoa for a different twist. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad on the side are great accompaniments as well!
