Savory Sweet and Sour Braised Shrimp Recipe for Family Meals

Savory sweet and sour braised shrimp is a familiar dish in many Vietnamese family meals. With its rich flavor blending the saltiness of fish sauce and the sweetness of sugar, this dish is not only easy to make but also very appetizing. Let’s explore how to prepare this delicious savory sweet and sour braised shrimp through the article below.

Savory sweet and sour braised shrimp with vibrant colors

Ingredients Needed

To make savory sweet and sour braised shrimp, you will need the following ingredients:

• Fresh shrimp: 300g (choose medium-sized shrimp for firmer meat when cooked)
• Shallots: 2 bulbs
• Garlic: 1 bulb
• Chili peppers: 2-3 (depending on your spice preference)
• Green onions: 2 stalks
• Fish sauce: 2 tablespoons
• Sugar: 2 tablespoons
• Seasoning powder: 1 teaspoon
• Ground black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Cooking oil: 2 tablespoons

Simple ingredients for savory sweet and sour braised shrimp

Steps to Follow

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Shrimp: Rinse clean, remove the whiskers, legs, and hard parts on the head. Let them drain.
• Shallots and garlic: Peel and mince.
• Chili peppers: Rinse clean, mince one, and slice another for garnish.
• Green onions: Rinse clean and chop finely.

Preparing shrimp and other ingredients

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

• Place the shrimp in a large bowl, add 1 teaspoon of seasoning powder, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Mix well and marinate the shrimp for about 15-20 minutes to let the flavors soak in.

Marinating shrimp with seasonings to enhance flavor

Step 3: Braise the Shrimp

• Make the caramel sauce: Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil, add 2 tablespoons of sugar to the pan. Stir over low heat until the sugar melts and turns amber. Add 1/2 cup of water, stir well, then turn off the heat. Set the caramel sauce aside.
• Sauté shallots and garlic: Heat the pan with 1 tablespoon of cooking oil, sauté the minced shallots and garlic until fragrant. Then add the marinated shrimp and quickly stir-fry over high heat until the shrimp firm up.
• Braise the shrimp: Once the shrimp are firm, add the caramel sauce to the pan. Lower the heat, stir well, and braise until the sauce thickens and coats the shrimp evenly. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
• Finish: Turn off the heat, sprinkle chopped green onions and sliced chili peppers on top for garnish.

Braising shrimp with beautiful caramel sauce

Completion and Enjoyment

After completion, the savory sweet and sour braised shrimp will have an attractive amber color, with firm and well-seasoned shrimp meat. This dish is especially delicious when served with hot steamed rice. The harmonious blend of savory and sweet flavors, along with the aroma of shallots and garlic, will delight your family.

Savory sweet and sour braised shrimp with vibrant colors

Tips for Perfect Savory Sweet and Sour Braised Shrimp

• Choose fresh shrimp: Opt for medium-sized shrimp, not too large or too small, for firmer and tastier meat after cooking.
• Don’t add fish sauce too early: Add fish sauce after the shrimp have firmed up to enhance the aroma of the dish.
• Adjust the heat appropriately: Start with high heat to quickly firm up the shrimp, then lower the heat to braise and let the flavors meld without burning.

We hope that with the detailed instructions above, you have mastered the recipe for savory sweet and sour braised shrimp. Try it out to bring a delicious and nutritious dish to your family’s table!