| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 193 | 7g | 1g | 9g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 4g | 2g | 20g | 1.2g |
There’s a magical journey of flavors just waiting to be explored in this delectable Chinese Cabbage and Shrimp Stir Fry. Inspired by Asian influences and a deep appreciation for fresh seafood reminiscent of my New England upbringing, this dish offers the perfect blend of tenderness, crunchiness, and subtle spice.
The Marriage of Sea and Earth
In our household, we’ve always believed in the harmonious blend of land-sourced and sea-sourced ingredients. They each bring a unique character that, when united, creates a gastronomic masterpiece. Reminiscent of traditional seafood feasts from my childhood, the juicy shrimp in this recipe adds a delicate sweetness that pairs perfectly with the hearty, earthy flair of the Chinese cabbage. Growing up with Irish influences also fostered an appreciation for unfussy, comforting meals. And what better way to tap into this nostalgia than with a dish that’s quick to prepare, but doesn’t skimp on flavor?
A Healthy Delight
But apart from its toothsome appeal, our Chinese Cabbage and Shrimp Stir Fry also boasts an enticing range of health benefits. Chinese cabbage, lauded for its rich Vitamin C and Vitamin K content, can contribute to improved heart health and bone strength. Shrimp, meanwhile, isn’t just tasty, but loaded with protein and essential minerals such as selenium and iodine. This dish is an enjoyable way to add these nutritionally dense elements to your diet. However, balance is key when it comes to health. A side of brown rice, perhaps, or a handful of roasted almonds, can round off this meal perfectly by contributing a boost of whole grains and healthy fats. Check this article on the benefits of brown rice to know more.
Should you find yourself craving that signature crunch that Chinese cabbage offers, you may also fancy experimenting with similar dishes like Bok Choy Chicken stir fry, or perhaps a hearty Asian-inspired salad. The cuisine of the East allows such versatility, and permits you to play around with a harmonious melange of flavors and textures to create a dish that truly delights the senses.
So there it is. A simple, yet savory delight, bringing the ocean’s bounty to your kitchen via a shrimp stir fry that’s intertwined with the humble appeal of Chinese cabbage. It’s more than just a dish; it’s a delicious bridge between cuisines, a connection to my roots, and a labor of love to share with my family. And I hope, it becomes a beloved addition to your meal repertoire too.
What You’ll Need
- 1 large Chinese cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb. raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece fresh ginger, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
- 6 green onions, sliced
- White pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Method
Step One:
Start by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the Chinese cabbage, peel and devein the shrimp, mince the garlic, finely chop the ginger, slice the red bell pepper and green onions. Dissolve the cornstarch in two tablespoons of water and set aside.
Step Two:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and ginger to the pan and stir-fry for about a minute or until fragrant.
Step Three:
Add the shrimp to the pan and stir-fry until they turn pink. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
Step Four:
Add the chopped Chinese cabbage and sliced red bell pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and the dissolved cornstarch. Stir well to combine.
Step Five:
Add the cooked shrimp back into the pan along with the sliced green onions. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2 minutes or until everything is heated through.
Step Six:
Season with white pepper to taste, and drizzle the sesame oil over the stir-fry. Mix well to combine and remove from heat.
Step Seven:
Your Chinese Cabbage and Shrimp Stir Fry is now ready to serve. Enjoy it hot with a side of steamed rice or noodles.
