Szechwan Shrimp
Spicy Szechwan Shrimp features bold flavors with chili, ginger, and garlic, perfect for those who enjoy a quick, flavorful Asian-inspired seafood dish with a hint of heat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the cornstarch and sherry together, then add chicken broth, soy sauce, ketchup, chili paste, and sugar.
- Set the sauce aside. Preheat a pan until hot, then add the oil.
- Add garlic, ginger, and shrimp to the pan, stir fry for 2 minutes until shrimp turn pink and become firm.
- Add the scallions and stir fry for 1 more minute.
- Pour in the broth mixture and stir until the sauce thickens.
- Serve hot with rice. Peapods may be added with the onions if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker sauce, mix an extra teaspoon of cornstarch with a splash of water before adding it to the pan. If you don't have sherry, rice wine or white wine can be used as a substitute. For a milder dish, reduce the chili paste, or use a milder type of hot sauce. Fresh shrimp are best, but frozen can be used; just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Szechwan shrimp over a bed of fluffy rice for a satisfying meal. Steamed vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad can complement the dish nicely. For a complete feast, consider pairing it with Yuki'S Fried Rice or exploring other Chinese recipes to create a themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Szechwan shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving for best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Szechwan Shrimp contains roughly 678 calories, with 14g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value) and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2972mg per serving (129% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used in this recipe. Just ensure they are completely thawed before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and prevents excess water from being released during stir-frying.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you don't have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water can work as a substitute, though the flavor will be less rich. For a deeper flavor, consider using low-sodium soy sauce mixed with water.
How spicy is this dish?
The spiciness of this Szechwan shrimp depends on the amount of chili paste used. Starting with 1/2 teaspoon allows for a mild flavor, while adding more increases the heat. Adjust to your taste preference.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).