winter melon with sea rice

How to Cook Shrimp with Winter Melon: A Complete Guide

Shrimp with winter melon is a light, nutritious, and comforting Chinese dish, perfect for any season. Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe to guide you.

Ingredients: 500g winter melon (peeled and cut into 2cm cubes), 50g dried shrimp (soaked in warm water until soft, drained), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 slice ginger, 1 scallion (chopped), cooking oil, salt, 1 tsp light soy sauce, and a pinch of white pepper.

Steps:

1. Prep: Soak dried shrimp to rehydrate, then chop roughly. Mince garlic and ginger; chop scallions into white and green parts separately.

2. Sauté: Heat oil in a wok over medium heat. Stir-fry ginger and garlic until fragrant, then add dried shrimp and cook for 1 minute until slightly crispy.

3. Cook Melon: Add winter melon cubes, stir-fry for 2 minutes, then pour in 200ml water (or broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 8–10 minutes until melon is tender but not mushy.

4. Season: Add light soy sauce, salt, and white pepper. Stir gently, then simmer for another 2 minutes. Sprinkle scallion greens before serving.

Tips: For extra umami, use shrimp-soaking water instead of plain water. Adjust saltiness as dried shrimp vary in saltiness. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, offering a harmonious blend of sweet melon and savory shrimp. Enjoy this healthy, home-style meal!