| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 245 | 10g | 2g | 15g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 2g | 28g | 2.2g |
One of my favorite dishes, that truly encapsulates the essence of my Pacific Northwest meets Japan heritage, is the flavorful Pea Sprouts and Shrimp Stir-Fry. Healthy, delicious, and packed with vibrant colors and flavors, this recipe is a tribute to the delicate balance of nature’s bounty, rooted in both the marine richness of Seattle and the earthy goodness of Japanese cuisine.
The Fusion of Taste and Tradition
The unique amalgamation of flavors in this Pea Sprouts and Shrimp Stir-Fry stands as a symbol of my dual heritage. The melding of succulent shrimp, a familiar star of Seattle’s seafood scene, with the earthy vibe of pea sprouts, a classic Japanese ingredient, makes this stir-fry a gastronomic celebration. The well-seasoned dish, despite its simplicity, reflects the complex duo of cultures I am proud to be a part of.
This recipe is strikingly similar to Shrimp Stir-fry with Snow Peas and Red Bell Pepper that I love from Cooks Illustrated but adds its unique flavor palate. Sydney Oland’s Stir-Fried Shrimp With Garlic and Chile Sauce in Serious Eats also shares the same principles but focuses more on a garlic and chile flavor profile.
The Health Benefits
Not only does this Pea Sprouts and Shrimp Stir-Fry offer a culinary treat but also presents various health benefits. Shrimp, being high in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, supports heart and brain health. The succulent crustacean is also low in calories, making it perfect for health-conscious individuals. On the other hand, pea sprouts are a powerhouse of key nutrients including vitamins A, C and K, and folic acid, effortlessly marrying health with taste.
The added health bonus of this dish is the use of ginger and garlic, both of which have significant immune-boosting properties. Plus, the contrast of sweetness from the red bell peppers and onions, and the umami flavors from the soy and oyster sauces, makes this a well-rounded, nutritionally dense dish.
To truly enjoy this flavor-packed stir-fry, serve it alongside sticky rice or pair it with a light, Asian-inspired salad. It could also work perfectly as a filling for lettuce wraps, offering a fun, hands-on dining experience perfect for gatherings. Truly, the versatility and benefits of this dish is why I love the Pea Sprouts and Shrimp Stir-Fry, and why I am certain, you will too.
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 lbs raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups fresh pea sprouts
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 2 scallions, sliced thin
Method
Step One
Preheat your wok or a large frying pan over high heat. Add the vegetable oil and allow it to heat up.
Step Two
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the oil. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds, or until they are fragrant but not browned.
Step Three
Add the thinly sliced red bell pepper and onion to the wok. Continue stir-frying for another 2 minutes, or until they are slightly softened.
Step Four
Add the raw shrimp to the wok. Cook, stirring often, until they are pink and opaque. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough. Remove the cooked shrimp and set them aside.
Step Five
In the same wok, add the fresh pea sprouts. Stir-fry for about a minute, or until they are wilted.
Step Six
In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, black pepper and white pepper. Stir well to make sure the sugar is fully dissolved.
Step Seven
Return the shrimp to the wok with the pea sprouts. Pour the sauce mixture over and stir well to combine. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step Eight
Remove from heat. Sprinkle the top with thinly sliced scallions before serving. Enjoy your Pea Sprouts and Shrimp Stir-Fry while it’s hot.
