Stir-fried okra with shrimp is a vibrant and healthy dish that’s quick to make and bursting with flavor. It’s a staple in many Asian cuisines, known for its unique texture and savory taste. The slight crunch of the okra combined with succulent shrimp makes for a delightful culinary experience. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this recipe will guide you through the process step-by-step, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces fresh okra, washed and trimmed
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small piece ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Equipment:
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
Instructions:
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and place them in a mixing bowl. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and sugar. Marinate for 15 minutes.
- While the shrimp is marinating, trim the okra and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together chicken broth and red pepper flakes (if using).
Stir-Fry Time:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and ginger, stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the okra to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until it turns bright green and slightly tender.
- Pour the chicken broth mixture into the skillet and bring it to a simmer.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet.
- Sprinkle chopped green onions over the shrimp and okra.
- Stir everything together for another minute until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the shrimp and okra evenly.
Tips and Notes:
- Selecting fresh and tender okra is key to this recipe. Look for bright green pods that are firm to the touch and avoid any with blemishes.
- To prevent the okra from becoming slimy, make sure to pat it dry after washing and avoid overcooking it.
- “When stir-frying okra, it’s essential to keep the heat high and cook it quickly to preserve its texture,” advises Chef Lin, a renowned expert in Asian cuisine. “This technique ensures a delightful crunch that complements the tender shrimp perfectly.”
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables in this recipe. Chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms would be delicious additions.
Stir-fried Okra with Shrimp
Presentation:
Serve your stir-fried okra with shrimp immediately over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with extra chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
Stir-fried Okra with Shrimp Served with Rice
This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Okra is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while shrimp provides protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Enjoy this healthy and satisfying dish as part of a balanced meal.
We hope you enjoy making this simple yet flavorful stir-fried okra with shrimp! Feel free to share your culinary creations and tag us on social media. We’d love to see your masterpieces!