fry prawns in oil

How to Make Crispy Fried Shrimp: A Step-by-Step Guide

Crispy fried shrimp, or "You Bao Da Xia," is a beloved Chinese dish known for its golden crust, tender meat, and savory-sweet flavor. Here’s a simple yet authentic recipe to recreate this restaurant favorite at home.

Ingredients:

500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails left on

1 tbsp soy sauce

1 tsp Shaoxing wine

1 egg white

2 tbsp cornstarch

3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

For the sauce: 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp vinegar, 1 minced garlic, a pinch of chili flakes (optional).

Steps:

1. Marinate the shrimp: Pat shrimp dry. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and egg white. Add shrimp, marinate for 15 minutes. Toss with cornstarch until evenly coated.

2. Heat the oil: Heat oil in a wok or deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

3. Make the sauce: In a small pan, combine sauce ingredients. Simmer over medium heat until sugar dissolves and sauce thickens slightly.

4. Toss and serve: Return fried shrimp to the wok, pour sauce over, and toss quickly to coat. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced scallions. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Enjoy this crispy, succulent treat that balances sweet, salty, and umami flavors perfectly!