Shrimp in Lobster Sauce is a popular Chinese-American dish known for its silky, savory sauce that perfectly complements the delicate flavor of shrimp. Despite the name, lobster isn’t the star of the dish; rather, the “lobster sauce” refers to a rich, umami-packed sauce made with garlic, ginger, and fermented black beans, traditionally paired with lobster in Chinese cuisine. This delicious combination creates a flavorful, comforting meal that pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles for a satisfying dinner.
Shrimp in Lobster Sauce Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp fermented black beans, rinsed and mashed
- 1/2 cup chicken or seafood stock
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the shrimp: Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, just until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and mashed fermented black beans. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken or seafood stock, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and Shaoxing wine. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Thicken the sauce: Gradually stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the egg: Slowly pour in the beaten egg while stirring the sauce to create a silky texture. The egg will cook and form delicate ribbons in the sauce.
- Combine and finish: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce until they’re heated through. Stir in the green onions and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp in lobster sauce over steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
This flavorful dish offers a delicious mix of tender shrimp and savory sauce, making it a fantastic choice for a quick and comforting dinner.
