steam shrimp with vermicelli

Steamed Shrimp with Scallions: A Fan Favorite Recipe

Steamed shrimp with scallions, or "粉丝蒸虾," is a beloved Chinese dish celebrated for its simplicity, freshness, and burst of umami flavors. This recipe is a go-to for home cooks and restaurants alike, highlighting the natural sweetness of shrimp balanced by aromatic sauces and tender vermicelli. Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering this crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

- 500g fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails left on for presentation)

- 50g dried vermicelli (soaked in warm water until soft, then drained)

- 4-5 stalks scallions, thinly sliced

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tbsp soy sauce

- 1 tbsp oyster sauce

- 1 tsp sesame oil

- 1 tsp sugar

- A pinch of white pepper

- Cooking oil for drizzling

Steps:

1. Prep the Shrimp: Rinse shrimp and pat dry. Marinate in a mix of 1 tbsp soy sauce, half the minced garlic, and a pinch of white pepper for 10 minutes.

2. Soak Vermicelli: Rehydrate dried vermicelli in warm water for 5–10 minutes until soft, then arrange it on a heatproof plate.

3. Assemble: Place marinated shrimp over the vermicelli. Top with remaining garlic, scallions, and a drizzle of cooking oil.

4. Steam: Bring water to a boil in a wok or steamer. Place the plate inside, cover, and steam over medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes, until shrimp turn pink and opaque.

5. Season: In a small bowl, mix the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and 2 tbsp hot water. Pour over the steamed shrimp. Garnish with extra scallion slices and a final drizzle of hot oil for fragrance.

Serve hot with steamed rice to savor the delicate, savory flavors. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also a healthy, elegant addition to any meal!