Stir-Fried Seafood Delight with Fresh Fujian Herbs
Introduction
Welcome to my culinary blog where we explore the rich flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine. Today, I am excited to share with you a dish that is both elegant and comforting – Stir-Fried Seafood Delight with Fresh Fujian Herbs. This dish is a testament to the culinary expertise of the Fujian province, known for its unique blend of seafood and herbs. It is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a celebration of the art of cooking.
The Ingredients
To prepare this dish, you will need:
- 2 lbs of mixed fresh seafood (such as shrimp, scallops, squid)
- 2 cups of fresh Fujian herbs (such as basil, cilantro, chives, and garlic chives)
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 inch of ginger, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of white pepper
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- Water chestnuts (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Seafood
Start by cleaning and preparing the seafood. Peel the shrimp, devein them if necessary, and slice the scallops into thin rounds. For the squid, remove the tentacles and slice the body into rings. Pat all the seafood dry with paper towels to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Preparing the Herbs
Fresh Fujian herbs add a burst of flavor to this dish. Wash the basil, cilantro, chives, and garlic chives thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry and chop them finely. Set aside a portion of the herbs for garnish.
Step 3: Marinating the Seafood
In a large bowl, combine the cleaned seafood with minced garlic, chopped ginger, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, white pepper, and cornstarch. Toss gently to coat the seafood evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Cooking the Seafood
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated seafood and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the seafood turns opaque and just cooked through. Remove the seafood from the wok and set aside.
Step 5: Stir-Frying the Herbs
Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Add the remaining garlic, ginger, and fresh herbs. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until the herbs are fragrant and slightly wilted.
Step 6: Combining Everything
Return the cooked seafood to the wok along with any accumulated juices. Toss everything together to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is best served immediately, hot off the wok. You can garnish with additional fresh herbs or sliced green onions for added color and aroma. Serve it alongside steamed rice or noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Nutritional Information
This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. The combination of fresh seafood and herbs provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy choice for those watching their weight.
Cooking Tips
- Make sure to use fresh seafood for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not overcook the seafood to prevent it from becoming tough and rubbery.
- Adjust the amount of herbs according to your preference for spiciness and aroma.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add more cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.
Conclusion
Stir-Fried Seafood Delight with Fresh Fujian Herbs is a delightful dish that showcases the versatility of seafood and the aromatic complexity of Fujian herbs. Its simplicity in preparation belies the depth of flavor it delivers. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become one of your go-to dishes. Enjoy the culinary journey and the flavors of the Fujian province!
