chinese sweet and sour shrimp recipes 1

Chinese Sweet And Sour Shrimp Recipes

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If you’re a fan of Chinese cuisine and crave a delectable combination of flavors, then look no further than Chinese Sweet and Sour Shrimp Recipes. This tantalizing dish brings together succulent shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and a perfectly balanced sweet and sour sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. Whether you’re a cooking aficionado or just looking to try something new in the kitchen, these recipes offer a delightful and easy way to bring the flavors of China into your own home. So grab your apron and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that is as delicious as it is satisfying.

Chinese Sweet And Sour Shrimp Recipes

Traditional Chinese Sweet and Sour Shrimp

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450 grams) of shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 onion, cut into chunks
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the cornstarch and flour. Dip the shrimp into the beaten eggs, and then coat them in the cornstarch and flour mixture until fully coated.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the shrimp in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
  3. In the same pan, sauté the bell pepper, onion, and carrot until they become slightly tender.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, tomato paste, and salt. Pour this sauce over the cooked vegetables and stir well.
  5. Add the pineapple chunks and fried shrimp to the pan, gently tossing everything together until the shrimp are coated in the sweet and sour sauce.
  6. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the shrimp are heated through.
  7. Serve the traditional Chinese sweet and sour shrimp over steamed rice.

Tips for Making the Best Sweet and Sour Shrimp

  • For extra crunch, you can deep-fry the shrimp twice by repeating step 2 after the first fry. This will give you a crispier texture.
  • Use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a sweeter and juicier flavor.
  • Adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the sauce by adding more or less brown sugar and rice vinegar according to your preference.
  • Garnish the dish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and aesthetic appeal.
  • Serve the sweet and sour shrimp immediately after cooking to maintain its crispy texture.

Healthy Chinese Sweet and Sour Shrimp

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450 grams) of shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 onion, cut into chunks
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ketchup, ginger, and garlic. Set aside.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and are no longer translucent. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, sauté the bell pepper, onion, and carrot until they become slightly tender.
  4. Add the pineapple chunks and cooked shrimp back into the pan, and pour the sauce mixture over them. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
  5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the shrimp are heated through.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve the healthy Chinese sweet and sour shrimp over brown rice or quinoa for a nutritious and delicious meal.

Health Benefits of Sweet and Sour Shrimp

  • Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, making this dish a good option for muscle growth and repair.
  • Pineapple contains bromelain, a digestive enzyme that aids in digestion and reduces inflammation.
  • The ginger and garlic used in the sauce have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, promoting overall health.
  • By using low-sodium soy sauce and reducing the amount of added sugar, this recipe offers a healthier alternative to the traditional sweet and sour shrimp.
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Quick and Easy Chinese Sweet and Sour Shrimp

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450 grams) of shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 onion, cut into chunks
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Place the cornstarch in a large ziplock bag. Add the shrimp to the bag and shake to coat them evenly with the cornstarch.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the coated shrimp until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
  3. In the same pan, sauté the bell pepper, onion, and carrot until they become slightly tender.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and salt. Pour this sauce over the cooked vegetables and stir well.
  5. Add the pineapple chunks and fried shrimp to the pan, gently tossing everything together until the shrimp are coated in the sweet and sour sauce.
  6. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the shrimp are heated through.
  7. Serve the quick and easy Chinese sweet and sour shrimp over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal in no time.

Time-saving Tips for Making Sweet and Sour Shrimp

  • Use pre-peeled and deveined shrimp to save time on prepping.
  • Instead of frying the shrimp, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes for a healthier alternative.
  • If you’re short on time, use frozen stir-fry vegetable mix instead of cutting and preparing the vegetables individually.

Spicy Chinese Sweet and Sour Shrimp

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450 grams) of shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 onion, cut into chunks
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons hot sauce (adjust according to spice preference)
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large ziplock bag, combine the shrimp and cornstarch. Shake the bag to coat the shrimp evenly with the cornstarch.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the coated shrimp until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
  3. In the same pan, sauté the bell pepper, onion, and carrot until they become slightly tender.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, hot sauce, and salt. Adjust the amount of hot sauce according to your spice preference.
  5. Pour the sauce over the cooked vegetables and stir well.
  6. Add the pineapple chunks and fried shrimp to the pan, gently tossing everything together until the shrimp are coated in the spicy sweet and sour sauce.
  7. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the shrimp are heated through.
  8. Serve the spicy Chinese sweet and sour shrimp over steamed rice, and garnish with sliced green onions for an extra kick.

Adjusting the Spice Level

  • If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the hot sauce altogether.
  • For those who love extra heat, increase the amount of hot sauce or add chopped chili peppers.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair the spicy sweet and sour shrimp with steamed broccoli or stir-fried bok choy for a balanced meal.
  • Serve over noodles for a delicious and fiery sweet and sour shrimp stir-fry.

Chinese Sweet And Sour Shrimp Recipes

Vegetarian Chinese Sweet and Sour Shrimp

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450 grams) of vegan shrimp substitute (e.g., tempeh, tofu, or seitan), diced
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 onion, cut into chunks
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the cornstarch, flour, and soy sauce to form a batter.
  2. Dip the vegan shrimp substitute into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the coated shrimp substitute until crispy and golden brown. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
  4. In the same pan, sauté the bell pepper, onion, and carrot until they become slightly tender.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and salt. Pour this sauce over the cooked vegetables and stir well.
  6. Add the pineapple chunks and fried vegan shrimp substitute to the pan, gently tossing everything together until the shrimp substitute is coated in the sweet and sour sauce.
  7. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the shrimp substitute is heated through.
  8. Serve the vegetarian Chinese sweet and sour shrimp over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a satisfying and meat-free meal.
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Vegetarian Substitutions

  • Tempeh, tofu, or seitan can be used as a substitute for shrimp in this recipe.
  • Ensure the vegan shrimp substitute is cooked according to the package instructions before adding it to the dish.

Tips for Enhanced Flavor

  • Marinate the vegan shrimp substitute in soy sauce and minced garlic before coating it in the batter for extra taste.
  • Add a splash of sesame oil at the end for a nutty and aromatic flavor.

Gluten-Free Chinese Sweet and Sour Shrimp

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450 grams) of shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup rice flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 onion, cut into chunks
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (check for gluten-free brand)
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar (check for gluten-free brand)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons gluten-free soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the cornstarch, rice flour, and salt. Dip the shrimp into the beaten eggs, and then coat them in the cornstarch and rice flour mixture until fully coated.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the shrimp in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
  3. In the same pan, sauté the bell pepper, onion, and carrot until they become slightly tender.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, gluten-free soy sauce, tomato paste, and salt. Pour this sauce over the cooked vegetables and stir well.
  5. Add the pineapple chunks and fried shrimp to the pan, gently tossing everything together until the shrimp are coated in the sweet and sour sauce.
  6. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the shrimp are heated through.
  7. Serve the gluten-free Chinese sweet and sour shrimp over steamed rice or gluten-free noodles.

Gluten-Free Substitutions

  • Ensure all sauces and condiments used are labeled as gluten-free or make homemade versions using gluten-free ingredients.
  • Rice flour and cornstarch can be used as gluten-free alternatives to wheat flour.
  • Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

Tips for Perfect Texture

  • Letting the coated shrimp rest for a few minutes before frying can help the coating adhere better and prevent it from becoming too thick.
  • Make sure the oil is hot and at the right temperature before adding the shrimp, as this will give them a crispy texture.

Authentic Chinese Sweet and Sour Shrimp with Pineapple

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450 grams) of shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 onion, cut into chunks
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the cornstarch and salt. Dip the shrimp into the beaten eggs, and then coat them in the cornstarch mixture until fully coated.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the shrimp in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
  3. In the same pan, sauté the bell pepper, onion, and carrot until they become slightly tender.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and tomato paste. Pour this sauce over the cooked vegetables and stir well.
  5. Add the pineapple chunks and fried shrimp to the pan, gently tossing everything together until the shrimp are coated in the sweet and sour sauce.
  6. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the shrimp are heated through.
  7. Serve the authentic Chinese sweet and sour shrimp with pineapple over steamed rice or chow mein noodles for an explosion of flavors.

Adding Pineapple for a Tropical Twist

  • Pineapple is a key ingredient in authentic Chinese sweet and sour shrimp. Its natural sweetness balances out the tanginess of the sauce, adding a delightful tropical twist to the dish.
  • For added flair, try grilling or caramelizing the pineapple chunks before adding them to the dish for a smoky and caramelized flavor.
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Chinese Sweet and Sour Shrimp Stir-Fry

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450 grams) of shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into thin strips
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 carrot, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large ziplock bag, combine the shrimp and cornstarch. Shake the bag to coat the shrimp evenly with the cornstarch.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the coated shrimp until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
  3. In the same pan, sauté the bell pepper, onion, and carrot until they become slightly tender.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and salt. Pour this sauce over the cooked vegetables and stir well.
  5. Add the pineapple chunks and fried shrimp to the pan, gently tossing everything together until the shrimp are coated in the sweet and sour sauce.
  6. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the shrimp are heated through.
  7. Serve the Chinese sweet and sour shrimp stir-fry over steamed rice or noodles for a quick and flavorful meal.

Stir-Frying Tips for Crisp and Tasty Shrimp

  • Make sure the pan or wok is hot before adding the shrimp to ensure they cook quickly and retain their crispy texture.
  • Fry the shrimp in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming and loss of crispness.
  • Stir-fry the vegetables on high heat to maintain their crunchiness. Cooking them quickly will help retain their vibrant colors and freshness.

Baked Chinese Sweet and Sour Shrimp

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450 grams) of shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • Cooking spray
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 onion, cut into chunks
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray.
  2. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the cornstarch and salt. Dip the shrimp into the beaten eggs, and then coat them in the cornstarch mixture until fully coated.
  3. Place the coated shrimp on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
  4. Bake the shrimp for 10-12 minutes, or until they turn crispy and golden brown.
  5. In the meantime, in a separate pan, sauté the bell pepper, onion, and carrot until they become slightly tender.
  6. In a bowl, whisk together the ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and tomato paste. Pour this sauce over the cooked vegetables and stir well.
  7. Add the pineapple chunks and baked shrimp to the pan, gently tossing everything together until the shrimp are coated in the sweet and sour sauce.
  8. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the shrimp are heated through.
  9. Serve the baked Chinese sweet and sour shrimp over steamed rice or with roasted vegetables for a healthier take on this classic dish.

Benefits of Baking Instead of Frying

  • Baking the shrimp instead of frying reduces the amount of oil and overall calories in the dish.
  • It creates a lighter texture while still maintaining a crispy coating.
  • Baking is a healthier cooking method that is easier to control, eliminating the need for excessive oil.

Chinese Sweet and Sour Shrimp Fried Rice

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked rice, cooled
  • 1 pound (450 grams) of shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large ziplock bag, combine the cooked rice and soy sauce. Shake the bag to evenly coat the rice with the soy sauce.
  2. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the cornstarch and salt. Dip the shrimp into the beaten eggs, and then coat them in the cornstarch mixture until fully coated.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the coated shrimp until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
  4. In the same pan, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the peas and carrots to the pan and stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
  6. Push the veggies to one side of the pan and pour the beaten egg into the empty side. Scramble the egg until cooked through.
  7. Add the cooked rice to the pan and stir-fry everything together until the rice is heated through.
  8. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, and salt. Pour this sauce over the fried rice and stir well to combine.
  9. Add the cooked shrimp and chopped green onions to the pan, gently tossing everything together until the rice and shrimp are coated in the sweet and sour sauce.
  10. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
  11. Serve the Chinese sweet and sour shrimp fried rice hot, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Creating a Delicious Sweet and Sour Fusion

  • The combination of sweet and tangy flavors in the sauce pairs perfectly with the savory fried rice.
  • Customize the dish by adding other vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added taste and nutrition.