If you’re searching for a delightful and easy-to-make recipe that brings the taste of authentic Asian cuisine to your kitchen, look no further. Our Shrimp Mei Fun Recipe is the perfect choice. This vibrant dish, made with succulent shrimp and delicate rice noodles, will become a staple in your meal plan. Bursting with flavors and requiring minimal time to prepare, it’s a wonderful option for busy weeknights or a flavorsome weekend lunch.
I first encountered Mei Fun during my travels to Hong Kong in a small street-side café. The bustling chef expertly tossed together simple ingredients that resulted in an unforgettable meal. After returning home, I was determined to recreate that authentic experience to share with my family. Over the years, my own twist on the dish has become a family favorite, served at countless gatherings after its initial success in our own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Shrimp Mei Fun Recipe is not just another stir-fried noodle dish. Here are some reasons why it stands out:
- Quick and Easy: With straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can whip up this dish in under 30 minutes.
- Aromatic and Flavorful: The blend of fresh garlic, ginger, and scallions will fill your kitchen with enticing aromas.
- Healthy Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and shrimp, it’s a wholesome option that ensures you’re eating well.
- Versatile: Modify the ingredients to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs without compromising on flavor.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flexibility. Here’s what you need to know about the ingredients:
- Noodles: Look for fresh or dried rice vermicelli noodles, sometimes labeled as ‘Rice Stick’. If you cannot find them, thin rice noodles or even angel hair pasta can work as substitutes.
- Shrimp: Choose fresh or frozen deveined shrimp. If frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking.
- Veggies: Traditional Mei Fun includes carrots, cabbage, and scallions. Feel free to add bell peppers or snow peas for extra color and crunch.
- Sauce: Soy sauce is the key flavoring here, but a dash of oyster sauce or a sprinkle of sesame oil can elevate the flavors tremendously.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by preparing the noodles according to the package instructions. Usually, this involves soaking them in hot water for 5-7 minutes until they are al dente, then draining and setting them aside.
Step 2
In a large pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the cleaned shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.
Step 3
With the pan still hot, add a bit more oil if needed, followed by minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped scallions. Stir-fry for 30 seconds to release their aromas and then add the carrots and cabbage. Cook for 3-5 minutes until they start to soften.
Step 4
Return the shrimp to the pan along with the soaked noodles. Pour in soy sauce and toss everything together to ensure the sauce coats the ingredients evenly. Adjust the seasoning with salt or a touch of sugar if desired.
Step 5
Continue to stir-fry on a low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the flavors meld together. Serve hot, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Storage Options
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, a quick stir-fry in a pan with a tiny splash of water can restore its freshness. Although not ideal, the dish can be frozen for up to a month. Ensure it is thoroughly defrosted before reheating. It’s best to consume soon after thawing to preserve the quality of the noodles and shrimp.
Variations & Substitutions
For those looking to tailor the Shrimp Mei Fun Recipe to specific dietary requirements or preferences, here are a few variations:
- Vegetarian: Replace shrimp with firm tofu or just increase the variety of vegetables.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili paste or a few sliced chilies to the stir-fry for a bit of heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure all other sauces are certified gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
This Shrimp Mei Fun Recipe is versatile and can star as the main dish or accompany others in a multi-course meal. Serve as a light lunch or a hearty dinner. Pair it with a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast or alongside other Asian-inspired dishes like spring rolls or sesame chicken for a delightful feast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of noodle? Absolutely! While rice noodles are traditional, you can experiment with different types like soba or even linguine. Just be mindful of the cooking times to ensure they don’t become too soft.
What can I do if I don’t have oyster sauce? Oyster sauce adds a distinct savoriness, but you can substitute with hoisin sauce for a slightly sweeter end result or simply use a bit more soy sauce.
How do I prevent the noodles from becoming mushy? It’s crucial not to over-soak or over-cook the noodles. Rinse them in cold water immediately after soaking to stop the cooking process and toss them with a bit of oil to keep them from sticking.
This delicious Shrimp Mei Fun Recipe is a delightful dish that brings the authentic taste of Asia right to your home. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal any day of the week. Enjoy the vibrant flavors with your family and friends and relish in the compliments that are sure to follow!
Shrimp Mei Fun Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz rice noodles soaked in warm water
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp soy sauce low sodium
- 1 cup bell peppers sliced
- 1 cup carrots julienned
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Soak the rice noodles in warm water for 10 minutes and drain.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat, add the shrimp, and cook until pink.
- Add bell peppers and carrots, stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
- Add the noodles and soy sauce to the pan, toss everything together for another 5 minutes.
