Suzhou-Style Stir-Fried Shrimps
When in Suzhou, don’t miss the delightfully sweet and savory stir-fried shrimps (Suzhou Xiaqian). The shrimps are cooked with shells intact, so every chomp is a flavorful crunch. It's a pure seafood party in your mouth as the tender shrimp meat mingles with the crispy exterior. Perfect, aren’t they?
Top 5 for Suzhou
Who Should Try This Dish?
This dish is perfect for seafood lovers and those who enjoy exploring traditional Chinese cuisine. It's also suitable for those who want to experience local flavors in Suzhou, making it a must-try for travelers seeking authentic culinary experiences.
Flavor Profile
Suzhou-Style Stir-Fried Shrimps boast a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. The natural sweetness of the shrimp perfectly contrasts with a light, savory seasoning that adds depth. The texture experience is unique as you encounter the tender meat inside combined with the slightly crispy shell, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Things to Eat with It
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light, fragrant jasmine rice, which helps absorb the dish's savory flavors. A crisp cucumber salad drizzled with sesame oil provides a refreshing balance, while a chilled white rice wine complements the sweet notes of the shrimp. For those who enjoy spice, a side of chili dipping sauce can enhance the meal's excitement.
What's in It?
- Fresh shrimp: The star ingredient, offering natural sweetness and a tender texture.
- Garlic: Adds aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Soy sauce: Provides a savory depth and umami flavor profile.
- Sesame oil: Used for stir-frying, imparting a nutty taste to the shrimp.
- Cooking wine: Enhances the flavors and aroma, making the dish more fragrant.
- Spring onions: Adds freshness and a slight crispness for garnish.
Suzhou-Style Stir-Fried Shrimps primarily rely on high-quality, fresh ingredients, particularly shrimp, which are often sourced locally.
How It's Made
Preparing Suzhou-Style Stir-Fried Shrimps involves a few essential steps. First, fresh shrimp are thoroughly cleaned, keeping their shells intact. A hot wok is essential for quickly stir-frying the shrimp, allowing them to retain their natural sweetness. The cooking process is usually brief, often enhanced with a splash of soy sauce and chopped garlic for flavor.
Local Traditions or Rituals Around the Dish
In modern-day Suzhou, enjoying Suzhou-Style Stir-Fried Shrimps is a popular activity, particularly during family gatherings and festive celebrations. This dish symbolizes prosperity and abundance, often served during Lunar New Year feasts. Not only is it cherished for its taste, but the method of preparation, which includes keeping the shells on, is a nod to tradition. Locals often indulge in this dish while sharing stories and making memories, reinforcing its significance in communal dining.