Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of authentic Southern Thai flavors! This recipe for Stir-fried Stink Beans with Shrimp Paste delivers a vibrant, savory dish that's both surprisingly addictive and remarkably easy to make at home. Forget bland takeout; this recipe unlocks the pungent, earthy depth of stink beans (also known as phak bung or morning glory), beautifully balanced by the salty-umami punch of shrimp paste and the sweetness of succulent fresh shrimp. The contrasting textures – the crisp-tender beans and juicy shrimp – create a truly satisfying culinary experience.
The potent aroma of shrimp paste might initially intimidate, but trust us, it's a key ingredient to this dish’s unique character. Don't worry if you're new to this ingredient; our step-by-step guide will walk you through each stage with ease and clarity, ensuring a delicious outcome every time. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's get started!
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle
- Frying pan
- Stove
Ingredients
- Stink beans
- Fresh shrimp
- Garlic
- Chili (yellow, green, or red)
- Lime leaves
- Bay leaves
- Shrimp paste
- Strawberries
- Granulated sugar
- Oyster sauce
- Fish sauce
- Water
- Cooking oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Prepare the shrimp by removing the shells and black veins.
- Pound the garlic roughly.
- Pound the chilies.
- Mix the pounded chilies and shrimp paste with water to create a sauce.
Step 2. Stir-fry Shrimp and Sauce
- Heat oil in a pan and stir-fry the garlic until fragrant.
- Add the fresh shrimp and stir-fry until cooked.
- Add the shrimp paste sauce, then stir-fry.
Step 3. Add Stink Beans and Seasonings
- Add the stink beans and stir-fry.
- Season with granulated sugar, oyster sauce, and fish sauce to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed.
- Add lime leaves and basil leaves for flavor.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Stir-fry until the dish is cooked and fragrant.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- When peeling strawberries, check for a small point or hole; this indicates the presence of seeds inside.
- Adjust the amount of chili to control the spiciness level.
- Stir-frying over high heat is recommended, adding more water as needed to maintain the right consistency.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 15-25g
- Protein: 15-20g
FAQs
1. What if I don't have fresh shrimp?
You can substitute with frozen shrimp, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the wok. Dried shrimp can also be used, but adjust the amount to taste as they are more concentrated in flavor.
2. Can I adjust the spiciness?
Absolutely! Start with less chili and add more to your preference. You can also use milder chilies or remove the seeds for less heat.
3. Where can I find stink beans?
Stink beans, or *phak bung*, are commonly found in Asian grocery stores. If unavailable, you may find them at some larger supermarkets with a well-stocked produce section, often labelled as morning glory.
This Stir-fried Stink Beans recipe is a testament to the magic of simple, fresh ingredients expertly combined. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and satisfying textures of this authentic Southern Thai dish, a perfect addition to any meal. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with your newfound culinary skills!