| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 240 | 12g | 2g | 20g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 13g | 3g | 22g | 1.5g |
Every now and then, a recipe comes along that has the power to transport you to another place with just one bite. The Indonesian Lesser Galangal and Shrimp Stir-Fry is that kind of dish for me. This tantalizing blend of fresh shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and the unique, aromatic flavor of lesser galangal immediately whisks my mind away to the bustling street markets of Southeast Asia.
Unlocking Unique Flavors
Lesser galangal, a relative of ginger and turmeric, is the star of this recipe. Its distinct peppery and citrusy flavor adds a new dimension to the traditional stir-fry. It’s not just about flavor, though; galangal offers several health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and aiding in digestion, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.
Paired with the umami-rich trio of soy sauce, fish sauce, and oyster sauce, this dish brings a complex, savory profile that balances perfectly with the natural sweetness of fresh pineapple chunks. If you’re seeking a taste that’s authentically Indonesian yet accessible to home cooks, this recipe is a must-try.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Another reason I adore the Indonesian Lesser Galangal and Shrimp Stir-Fry is its versatility. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal but elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. This dish pairs wonderfully with simple steamed rice, which soaks up the flavorful sauce, but you could also serve it alongside Thai sticky rice or even coconut rice for an added layer of richness.
A Healthy Choice
One of the best parts about this stir-fry is how healthy it is. Packed with lean protein from the shrimp and an array of colorful vegetables like bell peppers and pineapple, it’s a well-rounded meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. The inclusion of garlic and chili peppers not only adds to the flavor but also brings numerous health benefits, from boosting your immune system to providing essential vitamins.
If you have a love for shrimp dishes, you might also appreciate how this compares to other Asian-inspired recipes like Kung Pao Shrimp or Szechuan Shrimp. The Indonesian Lesser Galangal and Shrimp Stir-Fry stands out with its unique spice profile and the freshness of its ingredients.
So next time you’re looking to break away from the ordinary and elevate your dinner game, give this delightful Indonesian recipe a try. You’ll not only enjoy a feast for the senses but also reap the benefits of a meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of lesser galangal, thinly sliced
- 2 red chili peppers, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground white pepper
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Steamed rice, for serving
Method
Step One
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Step Two
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the thinly sliced onion and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until it begins to soften. Add the minced garlic, thinly sliced lesser galangal, and red chili peppers. Stir-fry for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Step Three
Add the thinly sliced red bell pepper and yellow bell pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the bell peppers begin to soften. Add the fresh pineapple chunks and continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
Step Four
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, ground white pepper, and water. Pour the sauce mixture into the pan and stir well to combine with the vegetables. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2 minutes.
Step Five
Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss to coat with the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are heated through.
Step Six
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the chopped green onions and fresh cilantro. Serve the Indonesian Lesser Galangal and Shrimp Stir-Fry over steamed rice. Enjoy!
