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Quick Kung Pao Shrimp

Quick Kung Pao Shrimp: Your 10-Minute Flavor Packed Meal

Quick Kung Pao Shrimp is a delicious, 10-minute meal that combines tender shrimp with vibrant vegetables in a tangy sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound Jumbo Raw Shrimp Essential protein base; use fresh or frozen (thawed) for tenderness.
  • 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce Adds umami flavor; opt for low-sodium to control saltiness.
  • 2 teaspoons Cornstarch Thickens the sauce and coats shrimp for extra texture.
For the Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar Provides tang; can substitute with white vinegar if needed.
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Adds rich, nutty flavor; use toasted for added depth.
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Sweetens the dish; can be replaced with sugar or agave.
  • 1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes For heat; adjust based on spice preference.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers (red and green) Adds color and sweetness; dice into small pieces for even cooking.
  • 1 medium Onion Mild sweetness; use yellow onion for the best flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Enhances flavor depth with aromatic notes.
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger (minced) Provides fragrant kick and complexity.
  • 2 stalks Green Onions Use both white and green parts for layered flavor.
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons Canola Oil Cooking oil for stir-frying; interchangeable with avocado or grapeseed oil.
  • 1/2 cup Peanuts Adds crunch; unsalted preferred, or substitute with cashews for nut allergies.
For Serving
  • 2 cups Cooked Rice Serve over this base; brown rice recommended for a healthier option.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Quick Kung Pao Shrimp
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and 2 teaspoons of cornstarch. Toss in the jumbo raw shrimp, coating them well in this marinade. Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Sprinkle in another teaspoon of cornstarch to help thicken the sauce.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the marinated shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally until they turn golden and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of canola oil and increase the heat to high. Add the diced bell peppers and onion, stir-frying for about 1-2 minutes until they become crisp-tender and vibrant in color.
  5. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the stir-fried vegetables. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the green onions, stirring everything together to combine well. Let it cook for another minute before pouring the prepared sauce over the top.
  6. Continue to cook for about another minute, stirring until the sauce thickens and the shrimp is heated through. Serve over a bed of warm cooked rice, garnishing with the green tops of the onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish is great for meal prep! Marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours ahead and chop vegetables in advance for quick cooking.

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