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Amazing Kung Pao Shrimp Recipe

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3.9 from 12 reviews

This Amazing Kung Pao Shrimp recipe is a quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines tender shrimp with crisp bell peppers, peanuts, and a spicy, savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it delivers a delightful balance of heat, sweetness, and umami in just 20 minutes.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Vegetables and Protein

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cubed red bell pepper
  • 1 cubed green bell pepper
  • 3 minced garlic cloves
  • 1 pound peeled and deveined large shrimp

Sauce

  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon water

Other

  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup peanuts
  • Sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables and Garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed red and green bell peppers along with the minced garlic cloves. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet with the vegetables and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
  3. Whisk the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon sriracha, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. In a separate small bowl, mix together 1 teaspoon cornstarch and 1 tablespoon water until smooth. Whisk the cornstarch mixture into the soy sauce blend to make a thickened sauce.
  4. Add Sauce and Peanuts: Pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Add ¼ cup peanuts and stir well to combine all ingredients.
  5. Cook to Thicken: Continue cooking the shrimp and sauce mixture for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. Stir frequently until the sauce begins to thicken and evenly coats the shrimp and vegetables.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle sliced green onions on top as a fresh garnish. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
  • Adjust sriracha and red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
  • You can substitute peanuts with cashews if preferred.
  • Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
  • Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 8 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Chinese