Fried shrimp with salted egg is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Southeast Asian cuisine. This flavorful combination of crispy fried shrimp and a rich, savory salted egg sauce is a crowd-pleaser that tantalizes the taste buds with its unique blend of textures and flavors. Whether you’re looking for an impressive appetizer or a main course to serve with rice, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Let’s Sugmi.info dive into the detailed steps to create this culinary masterpiece at home.
Fried Shrimp with Salted Egg Ingredients
To prepare fried shrimp with salted egg, you will need the following ingredients:
For the shrimp:
- 500 grams of large shrimp, peeled and deveined (leaving the tails on if preferred)
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the salted egg sauce:
- 3 salted egg yolks, steamed and mashed
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red chili, chopped (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup of evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- Fresh curry leaves (optional, for aroma)
Preparing the Shrimp
The first step in making fried shrimp with salted egg is to prepare the shrimp. Start by peeling and deveining 500 grams of large shrimp. If you prefer, you can leave the tails on for presentation. Once the shrimp are cleaned, pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they are ready for coating.
In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix these dry ingredients well to create the coating mixture for the shrimp.
Next, dip each shrimp into a beaten egg, making sure it is fully coated. Then, dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coat. This process gives the shrimp a crispy texture when fried, which is essential for the perfect fried shrimp with salted egg.
Frying the Shrimp
Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to fry the shrimp quickly and evenly. Fry the shrimp in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Each batch should take about 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden brown and crispy exterior. Once done, remove the shrimp and let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Making the Salted Egg Sauce
While the shrimp are draining, it’s time to prepare the salted egg sauce. Begin by steaming 3 salted egg yolks for about 10 minutes until they are fully cooked. Once steamed, mash the yolks with a fork and set them aside.
In a pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 chopped red chili (if you prefer a bit of heat) to the pan. Sauté the garlic and chili until they become fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
Stir in the mashed salted egg yolks and cook for 1-2 minutes. The yolks will start to bubble and release their aroma, which is a key component of the dish’s unique flavor. Next, add 1/4 cup of evaporated milk, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the pan. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency. For an additional layer of aroma, you can add fresh curry leaves at this stage.
Combining the Shrimp and Sauce
With the sauce ready, it’s time to combine it with the fried shrimp. Add the crispy fried shrimp to the pan with the salted egg sauce. Toss the shrimp gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the rich sauce. The combination of textures—the crispy shrimp and the creamy, savory sauce—creates an unforgettable culinary experience.
Serving Fried Shrimp with Salted Egg
Fried shrimp with salted egg is best served immediately while the shrimp are still crispy and the sauce is hot. Transfer the shrimp to a serving plate and garnish with extra chopped chili or curry leaves if desired. This dish can be enjoyed on its own as an appetizer or paired with steamed rice for a more substantial meal.
Tips for Perfect Fried Shrimp with Salted Egg
- Fresh Shrimp: Always use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can be used, but make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Even Coating: Ensure the shrimp are evenly coated with the egg and flour mixture to achieve a uniform crispy texture.
- Oil Temperature: The oil should be hot enough to fry the shrimp quickly. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb more oil and become greasy.
- Salted Egg Yolks: Use high-quality salted egg yolks for the sauce. You can find them in Asian grocery stores. Steaming the yolks enhances their flavor and makes them easier to mash.
- Serving Fresh: Serve the dish immediately after cooking to enjoy the contrast between the crispy shrimp and the creamy sauce at its best.
Nutritional Information
While fried shrimp with salted egg is indulgent, it’s worth noting its nutritional profile. Shrimp are a good source of protein and contain various vitamins and minerals. However, the dish is high in calories and fat due to the frying process and the rich salted egg sauce. Enjoying this dish in moderation can be part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion
Fried shrimp with salted egg is a dish that beautifully marries the textures of crispy fried shrimp with the luxurious taste of a salted egg yolk sauce. This combination creates a symphony of flavors that is sure to delight anyone who tries it. Whether served as a standout appetizer or a main course, fried shrimp with salted egg is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Southeast Asia. By following the detailed steps in this recipe, you can bring this delectable dish into your own kitchen and share it with family and friends.
From the initial preparation of the shrimp to the final toss in the savory salted egg sauce, every step in making fried shrimp with salted egg is crucial to achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture. This dish is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the senses, with its inviting aroma and vibrant presentation. So, the next time you’re in the mood for something special, try making fried shrimp with salted egg and experience the magic of this culinary delight.
