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Sweet Shrimp Skewers SERVES : 4 | PREPARATION TIME 10 MINUTES | MARINATING 2 HOURS | COOKING TIME 8-10 MINUTES
The Masters of One Dish: East Asian Street Food Vendors Who Excel
East Asian street food is a vibrant tapestry of flavours, aromas, and culinary traditions that captivates food enthusiasts around the world. Amidst the bustling streets and vibrant markets of East Asia, there is a unique breed of street food vendors who specialize in a single dish. These masters of one dish have honed their craft over generations, perfecting their recipes and techniques to create a culinary experience that is unparalleled. Renowned for their expertise and dedication, these vendors have become legendary in their local communities and beyond, drawing crowds of eager food lovers who seek out the best of the best.
For these street food vendors, specializing in one dish is not a limitation but a pathway to excellence. They have devoted their lives to perfecting every aspect of their chosen culinary masterpiece, from sourcing the freshest ingredients to mastering the intricate cooking methods and secret flavour combinations. By focusing solely on a single dish, they have achieved a level of mastery that sets them apart from the rest.
One might wonder how these vendors can thrive by offering just one dish. The secret lies in the power of simplicity. By narrowing their menu to a single item, they can channel all their energy into perfecting it. This intense focus allows them to refine their techniques, experiment with subtle variations, and create a dish that embodies the essence of East Asian cuisine.
Many of these street food vendors come from long lines of culinary artisans. They inherit treasured family recipes and techniques, carrying on a legacy that stretches back generations. The knowledge and skills are passed down from parent to child, preserving the authenticity and traditions of their respective dishes. Each generation adds their own touch, blending the old and the new to create something truly remarkable.
Iconic One-Dish Wonders:
From country to country, and region to region, East Asia boasts a multitude of iconic one-dish wonders that have become synonymous with street food culture.
Step into the tantalizing world of East Asian street food with our mouthwatering recipe for East Asian-style Sweet Shrimp Skewers. Bursting with flavours inspired by the vibrant culinary traditions of the region, these skewers are a perfect blend of sweet shrimp, fresh vegetables, and a delectable glaze. Grilled to perfection, they showcase the mastery of East Asian street food vendors who have perfected the art of creating one exceptional dish. So, fire up your grill or broiler and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of East Asia.
In this recipe, we'll guide you through the process of marinating your shrimp in a flavour-packed blend of soy sauce, aromatic spices, and other authentic ingredients. The marinated protein is then threaded onto skewers, alternating with a colorful array of vegetables that add both visual appeal and delightful taste contrasts. To elevate the flavour even further, a glaze made with a harmonious combination of hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil is generously brushed onto the skewers during the final stages of cooking.
The result? Juicy, tender bites of shrimp infused with a tantalizing blend of sweet, savory, and umami flavors, perfectly complemented by the vibrant crunch of the grilled vegetables. The caramelized glaze adds a luscious sheen and a touch of irresistible sweetness. Whether you're hosting a summer BBQ, craving a taste of East Asia, or simply seeking a standout dish that will impress your guests, these East Asian-style BBQ skewers are guaranteed to satisfy your culinary desires.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a gastronomic journey as we delve into the art of East Asian street food. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the vibrant night markets of Taipei, the influence of these renowned vendors can be felt in every tantalizing bite. Get ready to unleash your inner culinary artist and experience the magic of East Asian street food with our delectable BBQ skewers recipe.
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Sweet Shrimp Skewers SERVES : 4 | PREPARATION TIME 10 MINUTES | MARINATING 2 HOURS | COOKING TIME 8-10 MINUTES
INGREDIENTS
Marinade
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons mirin
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon chili paste (optional for spice)
Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers
680g or 1.5 pounds Shrimps (King Prawns) shelled
Assorted vegetables (options: bell peppers, onions, pineapple, zucchini)
Glaze
1/4 cup hoisin sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Optional garnish
Toasted sesame seeds
Sliced green onions
METHOD
In a bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients and mix well until the sugar has dissolved.
De-vein your shrimp by running a sharp knife along their back and removing the digestive tract. This will also butterfly the shrimp which not only allows the shrimp to cook quickly but also creats more surface area for the marinade. Place the shrimp into the marinade and carefully massage into the flesh. Ensure all the pieces are coated evenly. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Thread the marinated shrimps onto the skewers, alternating with vegetables.
In a small saucepan, combine the glaze ingredients (hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil) and heat over medium heat. Cook for a few minutes until the glaze thickens slightly.
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Baste the skewers with the glaze during the last few minutes of cooking, brushing it on both sides.
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute.
Optionally, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the skewers for garnish.
Serve the East Asian-style BBQ skewers hot with steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy the delicious flavors of this Michelin star-worthy street hawker dish. Feel free to adjust the spice level or customize the vegetables to your preference. Enjoy your meal!
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Hi, I'm Kwoklyn
I literally grew up in the kitchens of my parent's Chinese takeaways and restaurants.
I’m pretty sure if you cut me in half it would say “10 minute” (in a broad Chinese accent), which is pretty much what we told every customer who asked how long their order would be.
Never miss a recipe ever again by subscribing to my Newsletter, plus you can download your FREE copy of my Chinese Soul Food Cookbook