Get ready for a flavor explosion! This Spicy Funky Shrimp recipe, inspired by Bon Appétit, isn't your average shrimp scampi. We're taking things up a notch with a vibrant blend of spices and fresh basil, creating a dish that's both intensely flavorful and surprisingly easy to make. Forget bland seafood – this recipe delivers a punch of heat balanced by the bright, herbaceous notes of basil, resulting in a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Prepare to impress your friends and family with this show-stopping dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
The unique combination of spicy chili flakes, fragrant garlic, and zesty lemon juice creates a sauce that clings beautifully to each succulent shrimp. For a complete guide to creating this masterpiece, follow our step-by-step instructions below. Get ready to dive into a world of deliciousness!
Tools Needed
- Blender
- Nonstick skillet
Ingredients
- Fresno chilies: 3
- Garlic cloves: 6
- Fish sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Oil: 3 tablespoons
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- White sugar: 1/4 cup
- Shrimp: 1 pound (headless and peeled, or with shell on)
- Basil: 2 cups (small leaves)
- Lime: 1
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Spicy Marinade
- Coarsely chop the chilies (leave seeds for spiciness).
- Blend chilies, garlic, fish sauce, oil, salt, and sugar in a blender until smooth.
Step 2. Marinate and Cook the Shrimp
- Add shrimp to the marinade and let it sit for about 10 minutes.
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp to the skillet (leaving the marinade behind). Cook for about a minute per side, until lightly charred.
Step 3. Wilt the Basil
- Add basil to the skillet and toss gently with the shrimp, using the residual heat to wilt the basil.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with lime wedges.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Use the sugar in the marinade for caramelization and flavor balance.
- Don't overcook the shrimp; aim for about a minute per side for a good snap.
- The marinade doesn't need to marinate for long as the shrimp flesh is softer and more easily penetrated by the flavors.
Nutrition
- Calories: 480
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 25g
- Protein: 45g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent them from becoming watery.
2. What kind of basil is best?
Fresh basil is key! Sweet basil works perfectly, but you can experiment with other varieties for a different flavor profile.
3. How spicy is this recipe?
The spiciness is adjustable. Start with less chili flakes and add more to taste, depending on your spice preference.
This Spicy Funky Shrimp with Basil recipe delivers a bold and unforgettable flavor experience that’s surprisingly simple to achieve. From the first bite to the last, this dish is a testament to the magic of fresh ingredients and a touch of heat. Enjoy the delicious results and get ready to add this recipe to your culinary repertoire!