Home>Everyday Cooking>Wok Recipes>Slippery Shrimp

Slippery Shrimp

Slippery Shrimp, also known as mantis shrimp, are a fascinating and unique species found in various marine habitats around the world. These colorful and elusive creatures are known for their exceptional hunting abilities and striking appearance. With their powerful claws and lightning-fast strikes, slippery shrimp are formidable predators in the underwater world.

Prep Time:

15 mins

Cook Time:

20 mins

Total Time:

35 mins

Servings:

Yield:

4 servings

Ingredients

2 cups peanut oil for frying

1 pound peeled and deveined large shrimp

¼ cup cornstarch

2 large cloves garlic, minced

½ teaspoon minced fresh ginger

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 tablespoon white wine

1 tablespoon white vinegar

1 tablespoon ketchup

5 teaspoons white sugar

½ teaspoon salt

¼ cup water

2 teaspoons cornstarch

2 teaspoons water

5 green onions, sliced

Directions

Step 1

Heat peanut oil in a wok to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

Step 2

Toss the shrimp with 1/4 cup of cornstarch to coat, then drop into the hot oil, and quickly fry until golden brown, about 45 seconds. When done, drain shrimp, and set aside.

Step 3

Pour all but 1 tablespoon of oil from the wok, then stir in the garlic, ginger, and cayenne pepper. Cook and stir until the garlic is fragrant and beginning to brown, about 30 seconds. Pour in the wine, vinegar, ketchup, sugar, salt, and 1/4 cup of water, and bring to a boil over high heat. Dissolve the cornstarch in 2 teaspoons of water, stir into the boiling sauce, and boil until thickened, about 1 minute. Stir the shrimp and green onions into the sauce until coated.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

258

Calories

12g

Fat

17g

Carbs

19g

Protein

Complement

One of the most intriguing features of slippery shrimp is their complex visual system, which allows them to see a wide range of colors and perceive polarized light. This exceptional eyesight, combined with their lightning-fast movements, makes them incredibly skilled hunters. Slippery shrimp are also known for their remarkable ability to break through hard-shelled prey, such as crabs and mollusks, using their strong claws. Their striking appearance and fascinating hunting techniques make slippery shrimp a popular subject for marine enthusiasts and researchers alike. As these unique creatures continue to capture the curiosity of scientists and nature lovers, they serve as a reminder of the incredible diversity and complexity of life in the world's oceans.