How Chinese Restaurants Make Shrimp Tender?

Ever wondered how Chinese restaurants make shrimp tender every time you order your favorite dishes? The secret to their perfectly tender shrimp lies in specific preparation techniques, marination processes, and cooking methods. Understanding how Chinese restaurants make shrimp tender can help you replicate these mouthwatering textures at home.In this guide, we will explore the steps involved in how Chinese restaurants make shrimp tender.

Choosing the Right Shrimp for Tenderness

The first step in making shrimp tender is selecting the right type. While it may seem counterintuitive, it’s often better to choose frozen shrimp rather than fresh, unless you have a trusted fishmonger. Frozen shrimp can sometimes be fresher because they are flash-frozen immediately after being caught, which locks in their natural flavor and texture. Shrimp at the seafood counter, although labeled “fresh,” may have been thawed and refrozen multiple times, which affects their tenderness.

When choosing shrimp, it’s important to consider its form. Shell-on shrimp is generally preferred because the shell protects the meat and preserves the shrimp’s natural moisture. Though peeling and deveining require some extra effort, it ensures a fresher product. Shrimp that have been pre-peeled and deveined are more processed, potentially affecting their texture and flavor. Selecting shrimp with the shell on also allows for the possibility of marinating with the shells intact, infusing more flavor into the meat during the cooking process.

Additionally, pay attention to the shrimp size marked on the packaging, usually labeled with numbers like 16/20, 21/25, or 31/35. These numbers represent the count of shrimp per pound, with lower numbers indicating larger shrimp. For dishes that emphasize tenderness, medium to large shrimp (16/20 or 21/25) are generally recommended. Smaller shrimp, which have higher counts per pound, cook faster and are more prone to becoming rubbery if overcooked. Selecting larger shrimp gives you more control over cooking, allowing them to achieve that tender texture.

When preparing dishes that involve stir-frying, such as a classic beef and broccoli stir-fry, understanding how to select the right shrimp size and type is key. If you’re interested in learning more about stir-frying different ingredients, including vegetables, check out “Should Broccoli Be Boiled Before Stir-Frying?”. This can give you insights into achieving the right texture balance when combining shrimp with other components in stir-fry dishes.

Tips for Buying Shrimp

Buy from a trusted source: Frequent seafood markets or stores where you know the quality is high.
Avoid mushy shrimp: Firmness is key when selecting quality shrimp.
Check for ammonia smell: This indicates spoilage; fresh shrimp should have a mild ocean scent.

Preparing the Shrimp for Tenderness

Properly preparing shrimp is crucial for achieving that tender bite. While purchasing shell-on shrimp gives you a fresh starting point, you must handle the shrimp correctly to retain its texture.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Peeling: To begin, peel off the shell and legs. Start at the point farthest from the tail and work your way forward. Be gentle to avoid tearing the delicate shrimp flesh. Removing the shell before cooking can help the shrimp absorb marinades and seasonings more effectively.
Butterflying: This technique involves making a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp to ensure even cooking and an attractive presentation. Butterflying shrimp is commonly used in Chinese stir-fries and other dishes to achieve a tender, curled shape. There are several butterflying methods:
- Full-Length Butterflying: Splits the shrimp almost in half for a fan-like appearance.
- Front Butterfly: Keeps the tail intact for a more compact shape.
- Back Butterfly: Ideal for dishes where the shrimp will be grabbed by the tail.

The choice of butterflying method depends on your recipe and desired presentation. Using vinegar to splash over slippery, fresh shrimp can make peeling easier and faster.

Marinating Techniques for Tender Shrimp

One of the best-kept secrets of Chinese restaurants is the marination process, which not only enhances flavor but also significantly contributes to the shrimp’s tenderness. The marination method they use involves a combination of simple ingredients that help alter the shrimp’s texture, making it crunchy on the outside yet tender on the inside.

Chinese Restaurant Secret: Tenderizing with Baking Soda

Here’s how you can replicate the marination process at home:

Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine:
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
Marinate the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp into the mixture. Gently massage the ingredients into the shrimp to ensure even coating.
Add Ice Water: Pour in enough ice water to submerge the shrimp and add a few ice cubes. Stir everything together.
Rest Period: Let the shrimp sit in the mixture for 1-2 hours. For even better results, allow the shrimp to marinate overnight in the refrigerator.

This method works because the salt and baking soda help break down proteins in the shrimp, resulting in a tender yet crunchy texture. The sugar balances the saltiness and enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp. When ready to cook, rinse the shrimp thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt, sugar, and baking soda. This process helps to “clean” the shrimp, leaving behind only the tender texture you desire.

How to Velvet Shrimp Like Chinese Restaurants

Velveting is another essential technique used in Chinese cooking to ensure the shrimp stays moist and tender during the cooking process. Traditionally used for meats like beef and chicken, velveting can be applied to shrimp as well. The process involves coating the shrimp in a light mixture of oil, cornstarch, and water to create a protective barrier that locks in moisture during cooking.

How to Velvet Shrimp

Prepare the Coating: In a bowl, mix:
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch
- A splash of water
Coat the Shrimp: Add the cleaned shrimp into the mixture and stir until each piece is evenly coated.
Rest: Allow the shrimp to sit in the mixture for 15-30 minutes.
Cooking: Briefly cook the shrimp in hot oil or water to “seal” in the juices. This initial cooking step helps the shrimp retain its tenderness during the final stir-fry.

By velveting the shrimp, you create a silky texture that absorbs flavors more readily while keeping the interior juicy. This is particularly useful when cooking in high-heat environments like stir-frying. For more insight into how velveting and marination contribute to meat tenderness, you might find “How Do Chinese Get Beef So Tender?” useful, as some principles overlap with shrimp preparation.

Cooking Methods to Keep Shrimp Tender

How you cook the shrimp is just as important as selecting and preparing it. In Chinese cuisine, the following cooking techniques are commonly employed to achieve that perfect tender texture:

Stir-Frying

Stir-frying is a fast and high-heat cooking method that locks in the shrimp’s natural juices, preserving its tenderness. When stir-frying:

Ensure your wok or pan is hot before adding the shrimp. A quick sizzle indicates the right temperature.
Use a high smoke-point oil like peanut or vegetable oil.
Cook the shrimp in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Remove the shrimp from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque, usually within 2-3 minutes.

Stir-frying pairs well with a variety of ingredients. If you’re planning a meal with shrimp and vegetables, take a look at the article on “Should Broccoli Be Boiled Before Stir-Frying?” to ensure all components maintain their optimal texture.

Steaming

Steaming is a gentle method that helps maintain the shrimp’s moisture and tenderness. The key to steaming shrimp is to keep the cooking time short and use aromatics like garlic, ginger, and green onions to infuse flavor. Line the steamer basket with parchment paper or lettuce leaves to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Deep-Frying

Deep-frying shrimp creates a crispy exterior while keeping the interior tender. To achieve the best results:

Use oil heated to 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb excess oil and become greasy. If too hot, they can overcook and become tough.
Lightly coat the shrimp in a thin batter or cornstarch to enhance crispiness.
Fry in small batches for even cooking.

Deep-fried shrimp can be enjoyed with a light dipping sauce or as part of a larger dish. The quick cooking time seals in the shrimp’s natural juices, providing a delightful contrast between the crispy coating and tender meat inside.

Enhancing Flavor While Keeping Shrimp Tender

Chinese restaurants often use additional methods to enhance the shrimp’s flavor without compromising tenderness:

Flash Frying: Quickly frying shrimp at high heat for a few seconds creates a crispy exterior while sealing in the juices. This technique is ideal for dishes like salt and pepper shrimp.
Marinating with Shells: Marinating shrimp with their shells on can infuse more flavor into the meat. The shells act as a barrier, protecting the shrimp’s natural moisture during cooking.

Using shrimp heads and shells to make a flavorful stock is another great way to enhance the overall taste of your dishes. Shrimp stock can be used in soups, sauces, and stir-fries, adding depth without sacrificing the shrimp’s texture.

Additional Tips for Tender Shrimp

Use a splash of vinegar to cut through the sliminess of fresh shrimp, making peeling easier.
Choose shrimp with thinner shells, such as pink shrimp, to simplify preparation and cooking.
Experiment with different butterflying methods, like full-length or front butterfly, to find the perfect shape for your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-Marinating: Leaving shrimp in the marinade for too long can make it mushy. Stick to the recommended 1-2 hours or overnight if using a gentle marination process.
Overcooking: Shrimp cooks in just a few minutes. Overcooking causes it to become rubbery and lose its tenderness. Watch for the color change to pink and opaque, then remove from heat.
Incorrect Thawing: Avoid using hot water or the microwave to thaw frozen shrimp, as this can affect its texture. Instead, place frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or thaw under cold running water.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do Chinese restaurants make shrimp so tender?
They use a combination of marinating techniques (salt, sugar, baking soda) and cooking methods like stir-frying and velveting to achieve the desired texture.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for these techniques?
It’s not recommended, as pre-cooked shrimp can become rubbery when reheated. Start with raw shrimp for the best results.
How long should I marinate shrimp to achieve tenderness?
Ideally, marinate the shrimp for 1-2 hours in the refrigerator, or overnight for enhanced texture, especially when using a baking soda-based marinade.
Is velveting shrimp necessary for all Chinese recipes?
Not necessarily. It depends on the recipe and the desired texture. Some dishes, like steamed shrimp, do not require velveting.
Can I eat shrimp shells after cooking?
Yes, particularly if they are flash-fried. The shells become crispy and add extra flavor. Many Chinese dishes serve shrimp with the shell on for this reason.
How do I avoid overcooking shrimp?
Keep an eye on the color change. Shrimp cooks in minutes and should be removed from heat as soon as it turns pink and opaque.

Recipes for Practice

Stir-Fried Shrimp with Broccoli: Ideal for practicing velveting techniques. This recipe pairs well with stir-fried vegetables, just like in a classic Beef and Broccoli dish.
Salt and Pepper Shrimp: Utilizes marination to create a tender, crispy texture.
Shanghai Shrimp Stir-Fry: Highlights the importance of cooking techniques in preserving texture.

Conclusion

Achieving tender shrimp like those found in Chinese restaurants requires attention to detail in every step—from selecting the right shrimp to employing marination and cooking techniques. By avoiding common pitfalls and experimenting with various methods like velveting and stir-frying, you can recreate this restaurant-quality texture at home.

With these techniques and tips, you’ll not only master the art of cooking shrimp but also enhance your Chinese cooking repertoire. Your shrimp dishes will be not only tender but also flavorful, just like your favorite Chinese restaurant’s offerings.