Aromatic Asian Style Fried Rice

Simplify Shrimp Preparation

Shrimp is an ideal ingredient because it’s quick to cook and absorbs all the flavors in your dish. At the same time, cooking shrimp is a delicate process, as they can be undercooked or overcooked easily. That is why it is important to prepare the shrimp correctly, to ensure that it cooks evenly. 

When buying frozen shrimp, it is best to slowly defrost it in the fridge for 24 hours. If you didn’t think that far ahead, throw your shrimp in a colander under cold running water in the sink. It is important not to make the water warm or hot, as this will begin the cooking process, causing the shrimp to cook unevenly. 

This recipe calls for shrimp that is bought pre-peeled and deveined. However, if you happen to have some shrimp already in your freezer with the shells still on, you will need to clean them properly. To start peeling, start by pulling the legs off and then the rest of the shell will slip off easier. You also need to remove the dark digestive tract that is on the back of the shrimp. Simply cut a slit on the back to remove the vein and rinse with cold water. Voila! 

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, get inspired with these Recipe Ideas Using Shrimp!

Cooking with Cilantro

An herb with a fresh, citrusy taste, cilantro is a delicious addition to many cuisines from Mexican to Asian. It can be found in salsas, marinades, dressings, as a garnish or a way to enhance rice. From Baja Fish Tacos with Cilantro Cream to Cilantro Lime Rice, cilantro can add a depth of flavor for many people. However, some people aren’t fans; if this is you or one of your guests, you can opt to use parsley and lemon juice instead! 

Tastes Better with Turmeric! 

An earthy, bitter and slightly peppery spice, the bright orange of the turmeric root offers a level of complexity to many dishes. It is most commonly used as an ingredient in curry powder and found in many Middle Eastern and South Asian dishes. Make sure to keep a jar of the powder in your spice cabinet and get creative!