Ingredients
- 150-200 grams salted butter
- 1/4 cup minced garlic
- Chili flakes, to taste
- Sugar, salt, and pepper, to taste
- 750 grams fresh shrimps
- Slurry Ingredients
- 6 tbsp Water
- 2-3 tbsp cornstarch
- A splash of fish sauce
Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Shrimps
First, thoroughly wash and clean the fresh shrimps. If desired, remove the heads and devein them. Set the shrimps aside.
Melting the Butter
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Opt for high-quality butter, such as European or Danish butter, for the best results.
Adding the Garlic
While the butter is still not too hot, add the minced garlic. This prevents the garlic from becoming toasted and bitter. Let the garlic cook until its flavors infuse the butter.
Cooking the Shrimps
Once the garlic has cooked, add the shrimps to the skillet. Cook them until they turn orange, then cover the skillet and continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes to ensure the shrimps are fully cooked.
Preparing the Slurry
In a separate container, mix water, cornstarch, and a splash of fish sauce to create the slurry. This slurry will help thicken the sauce and prevent separation from the shrimps.
Flavoring the Dish
Add chili flakes, salt, sugar, and pepper to the skillet according to your taste preferences. If you don't like spicy food, you can skip the chili flakes.
Adding the Slurry
Pour half of the slurry mixture into the skillet, ensuring the sauce thickens and clings to the shrimps. You can add more slurry if necessary, but be careful not to over-thicken the sauce.
Final Touches
Once the shrimps are cooked and the sauce has reached your desired consistency, turn off the heat. Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and added flavor.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Shrimps
- Steamed white or brown rice
- Garlic bread
- Fresh green salad
- Quinoa
- Grilled or steamed vegetables
Ingredient Substitutes
If you can't find salted butter, unsalted butter with a pinch of salt can be used as a substitute. Margarine blends can also be an alternative for those who prefer a dairy-free option. For a spicier version of the dish, you can use fresh chili peppers instead of chili flakes.
Nutrition Information
This recipe serves 4 people with approximately 187 grams per serving. The nutrition information per serving is as follows:
- Calories: 446 kcal
- Total Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Cholesterol: 340mg
- Sodium: 443mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 36g Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
Tips and Tricks
- Always use fresh shrimps for the best results. Keep them refrigerated until you're ready to cook.
- When cooking the garlic, avoid browning it, as this can cause a bitter taste in the sauce.
- Be cautious not to overcook the shrimps, as they can become tough and rubbery.
- Adjust the spiciness, sweetness, and saltiness of the sauce according to your preferences.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimps for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimps. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Can I substitute the shrimps with another type of seafood?
Yes, you can use crabs, prawns, or even scallops instead of shrimps. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the butter?
You can use a dairy-free margarine blend or a plant-based butter substitute.
Can I make this dish ahead of time and reheat it later?
Yes, you can make the dish ahead of time. Just reheat it gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimps.
How long can I store the leftovers?
You can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Final Thoughts
Chef RV's Garlic Butter Shrimps is an incredibly flavorful and satisfying dish that's sure to impress your taste buds. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you'll be enjoying a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Bon appétit!