Discover a vibrant and refreshing Thai dish that's surprisingly easy to make: Stir-fried Lotus Stems with Shrimp. This recipe offers a delightful combination of crisp-tender lotus stems, succulent shrimp, and aromatic Thai flavors. The unique texture of the lotus stems, slightly crunchy yet yielding, provides a delightful contrast to the juicy shrimp, all expertly balanced with a savory sauce. Forget bland vegetables; this dish is a burst of flavor and a testament to the versatility of Thai cuisine. You'll be amazed at how quickly this dish comes together, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
This recipe showcases the bright, zesty notes of Thai cuisine without overwhelming your palate. We'll guide you through each step of the cooking process, ensuring you achieve a perfectly balanced and delicious stir-fry every time. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's dive into the detailed instructions!
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle
- Pot
- Pan
- Knife
Ingredients
- Lotus root: 150 grams
- Shrimp
- Garlic: 15 grams
- Jinda chili peppers: 5
- Peppercorns: 1/2 teaspoon
- Shrimp paste: 1/2 tablespoon
- Oyster sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Garden chili peppers: 10 grams
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Fish sauce: 1/2 teaspoon
- Oil
- Salt
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Cut the lotus root into long pieces. Boil the lotus root in salted water until tender and bright green (approximately 172.08 - 185.08 seconds).
- peel, devein, and wash thoroughly (28.8 seconds).
- Pound the garlic, chili peppers, and peppercorns in a mortar until finely ground (90.04 seconds).
- Dissolve the shrimp paste in a little water (62.64 seconds).
Step 2. Stir-fry the Aromatics and Shrimp
- Heat oil in a pan. Add the pounded garlic, chili, and pepper mixture; stir-fry over low heat until fragrant (230.36 seconds).
- Add the shrimp and stir-fry until cooked (257.959 seconds).
Step 3. Combine and Cook the Lotus Stems
- Add the boiled lotus root, dissolved shrimp paste, oyster sauce, sugar, fish sauce, and the water from rinsing the mortar. Stir-fry until everything is well combined and heated through (271.44 seconds).
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with fresh chili peppers and serve hot with rice (330.72 seconds).
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Boiling the lotus root prevents it from turning black during stir-frying (23.08 seconds).
- Use low heat when stir-frying the garlic, chili, and pepper mixture to prevent burning (241.12 seconds).
- Don't overcook the shrimp to keep it tender and juicy (260.479 seconds).
- Rinse the mortar and use the water to add flavor and creaminess to the dish (151.519 seconds).
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?
Yes! Chicken, tofu, or even beef would work well. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. Where can I find lotus stems?
Many Asian grocery stores carry fresh or canned lotus stems. Sometimes you can find them in the produce section of larger supermarkets.
3. What if I don't have all the Thai ingredients listed?
Don't worry! You can adapt the recipe. Fish sauce can be substituted with soy sauce (reduce amount), and you can omit the chilies if you prefer less spice.
This Stir-fried Lotus Stems with Fresh Shrimp recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients elevated by vibrant Thai flavors. Enjoy the satisfying crunch of the lotus stems and the succulent shrimp in every bite. We hope you'll add this delightful and easy-to-make dish to your regular cooking repertoire!