Crispy Chinese Lemon Shrimp in Wok – Fast and Flavorful

Chinese Lemon Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the tangy zest of lemon with the savory flavors of succulent shrimp, offering a refreshing and light meal. Originating from Chinese cuisine, this recipe stands out due to its simplicity and the vibrant flavors it presents.

Using a wok pan allows for quick and even cooking, making this dish not only easy but also healthier since it requires minimal oil.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and simple to make, perfect for weeknights.
• Packed with fresh flavors and a hint of sweetness.
• The wok cooking method retains nutrients and uses less oil.

Let’s dive into the details for making this delightful Chinese Lemon Shrimp using a wok pan.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make Chinese Lemon Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp (45ml) lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tsp (5g) lemon zest
• 2 tbsp (30ml) soy sauce
• 1 tbsp (15ml) honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch (2.5cm) piece of ginger, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp (30ml) vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup (30g) green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup (30g) bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp (10g) cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp (30ml) water (optional, for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Substitutions and Variations:

• Substitute honey with maple syrup or sugar if needed.
• Use chicken or tofu as an alternative to shrimp.
• Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Ingredients:

• Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done.
• Mince the garlic and chop the ginger finely.
• Slice the bell peppers into thin strips.
• Chop the green onions.
• Squeeze fresh lemon juice and zest the lemon.

Prepping the Wok:

• Clean your wok pan thoroughly.
• Dry it completely to avoid any water splatters during cooking.

How to Cook Chinese Lemon Shrimp in the Wok Pan

1. Heat the Wok:

• Place the wok on medium-high heat.
• Add 2 tbsp of vegetable oil and let it heat until shimmering.

2. Cook the Shrimp:

• Add the shrimp to the wok.
• Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
• Remove the shrimp from the wok and set aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics:

• Add garlic and ginger to the wok.
• Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add Bell Peppers:

• Toss the thinly sliced bell peppers into the wok.
• Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.

5. Create the Sauce:

• In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, soy sauce, and honey.
• Pour the mixture into the wok and stir well.

6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):

• Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water to form a slurry.
• Add the slurry to the wok if you prefer a thicker sauce.

7. Combine All:

• Return the cooked shrimp to the wok.
• Add chopped green onions, and stir well to coat everything in the sauce.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Final Touch:

• Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.

Essential Note: Monitor the heat closely. The cooking process should be quick to prevent overcooking the shrimp and vegetables.

See more: Healthy Chicken and Water Chestnut Stir-Fry

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chinese Lemon Shrimp Stir Frying

Here are some useful tips and tricks for perfect Chinese Lemon Shrimp every time:

• Preheat the Wok: Ensure your wok is hot before adding ingredients to achieve a perfect sear without sticking.
• Do Not Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; 2-3 minutes is usually enough. Overcooking will make them tough.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and herbs enhance the dish’s brightness and flavor.
• Adjust Sweetness and Tanginess: Taste the sauce before adding the shrimp back. Adjust with more honey or lemon juice if needed.
• Prevent Soggy Texture: Avoid overcrowding the wok. Cook in batches if necessary.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Adding shrimp too early or keeping them on heat for too long.
• Not using fresh lemon juice, which can make a significant flavor difference.
• Skipping the thickening agent can result in a watery sauce.

Serving Suggestions for Chinese Lemon Shrimp

Chinese Lemon Shrimp pairs well with various sides and can be served in multiple ways:

• Serve with Rice: A bowl of steamed jasmine rice or fried rice makes a great pairing.
• Noodle Option: Serve over a bed of quick stir-fried noodles or lo mein.
• Garnish: Garnish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Use a skillet over medium heat to reheat until just warm. Avoid microwaving to prevent overcooking the shrimp.

The Bottom Line

Making Chinese Lemon Shrimp at home is a straightforward and rewarding process. Using fresh ingredients and a wok pan not only simplifies the cooking but also ensures you retain all the vibrant flavors and nutrients.

I hope you give this recipe a try and find it as delicious as I do. Feel free to share your experience and any variations you tried with this dish.

Enjoy the refreshing and delicious flavors of Chinese Lemon Shrimp, and happy cooking!

For more delicious wok pan recipes, stay connected with Kit Yum.

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