Why Steamed Garlic Shrimp with Vermicelli is a Favorite

Steamed dishes like this one are beloved in Cantonese cuisine for their ability to preserve the natural flavors of the ingredients while infusing them with aromatic seasonings. Steaming ensures the shrimp remain tender and succulent, while the noodles soak up the rich, savory sauce, making every bite more flavorful. This dish is a harmonious blend of simple ingredients that elevate each other, with the shrimp taking center stage and the vermicelli providing a satisfying base that balances the dish.

The use of garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and Shaoxing rice wine (optional but highly recommended for its depth of flavor) creates a perfectly seasoned sauce that’s both aromatic and umami-rich. When poured over the shrimp, the sauce infuses the shrimp with its savory goodness, while the steaming process locks in moisture, resulting in shrimp that are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.

The Key Ingredients for Success

The key to making Steamed Garlic Shrimp with Vermicelli a success lies in the quality and balance of the ingredients used:

• Large Shrimp: For this dish, large shrimp with their heads and shells on provide the best flavor and presentation. The shells help retain the shrimp’s moisture while steaming, keeping the flesh juicy and tender. The heads add to the richness of the dish and are a key component of the authentic Cantonese style.

• Mung Bean Vermicelli (Glass Noodles): These noodles are light and delicate, and they absorb the flavorful sauce beautifully. Soaking them in cold water softens them, making them the perfect vessel for soaking up the garlic-infused sauce while steaming.

• Garlic: The garlic is the star of the sauce, giving the dish its aromatic depth. Sautéing the garlic in hot oil releases its natural oils and infuses the sauce with a deep, savory fragrance that pairs perfectly with the shrimp.

• Soy Sauce & Oyster Sauce: The combination of light soy sauce and oyster sauce creates a savory and slightly sweet base for the sauce. The oyster sauce adds an umami richness, while the soy sauce provides a balanced saltiness.

• Shaoxing Rice Wine: This Chinese cooking wine adds a subtle complexity to the dish and enhances the natural flavors of the shrimp and garlic. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can omit this ingredient, but the wine’s unique flavor makes a noticeable difference.

• White Pepper & Sugar: White pepper adds a subtle heat, while the sugar balances out the saltiness of the soy sauce and the oyster sauce, resulting in a perfectly balanced flavor profile.

How to Prepare Steamed Garlic Shrimp with Vermicelli

Preparing Steamed Garlic Shrimp with Vermicelli is relatively simple and doesn’t require much active cooking time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious dish:

1. Soak the Vermicelli: Begin by soaking the mung bean vermicelli in cold water for about 12 minutes. This softens the noodles and prepares them for steaming. Once softened, drain the noodles and cut them into manageable lengths. Spread them evenly over the plate you plan to use for steaming.

2. Prepare the Shrimp: Trim the legs off the shrimp and carefully cut off the top part of the shrimp’s head, leaving the base intact. Make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp (without cutting through) and flatten the flesh to create a more even surface. This makes the shrimp easier to steam and helps it absorb more of the sauce. Arrange the shrimp on top of the vermicelli with the open side facing up, ensuring they are evenly spaced for even cooking.

3. Make the Garlic Sauce: In a small pan, heat the neutral cooking oil over high heat until it starts to smoke. Carefully pour the hot oil over the minced garlic and let it cook for a few seconds, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant aroma. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing rice wine, water, sugar, and white pepper, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for a minute or two until it thickens slightly.

4. Assemble and Steam: Pour the prepared garlic sauce evenly over the shrimp, ensuring they are well coated. Set up your steamer and bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, place the plate of shrimp on the steaming rack, cover, and steam for about 5 minutes. The shrimp should turn pink and curl slightly when done, signaling that they are perfectly cooked.

5. Garnish and Serve: Once the shrimp are cooked, remove the plate from the steamer. Garnish with chopped scallions for a burst of color and added flavor. Serve immediately, ensuring the vermicelli noodles soak up the flavorful garlic sauce.

Serving Suggestions for Steamed Garlic Shrimp with Vermicelli

This dish is perfect on its own, but you can also pair it with other light and flavorful dishes to create a more complete meal. A side of steamed greens, such as bok choy or spinach, would provide a nice contrast to the richness of the shrimp and noodles. You could also serve this dish with a light soup, like egg drop soup or a hot and sour soup, to complement the meal.

For a more festive occasion, consider serving it alongside other Cantonese specialties, such as dim sum or crispy spring rolls. The combination of different textures and flavors will elevate the meal and provide a well-rounded dining experience.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Steamed Garlic Shrimp with Vermicelli contains approximately 247 calories, 17g of protein, 26g of carbohydrates, and 8g of fat. While the dish is low in fiber, it’s a good source of protein from the shrimp, making it a satisfying and nutrient-dense meal. The sodium content is relatively high (1211mg per serving), largely due to the soy sauce and oyster sauce, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation, particularly if you are mindful of sodium intake. The cholesterol content (143mg) comes from the shrimp, which are high in cholesterol but also provide essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids.

Conclusion: A Deliciously Elegant Dish

Steamed Garlic Shrimp with Vermicelli is a beautifully simple dish that delivers big on flavor. The succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic sauce, and delicate vermicelli noodles come together to create a dish that is as elegant as it is delicious. With minimal preparation and cooking time, this Cantonese classic is perfect for special occasions, family dinners, or when you simply want to enjoy a meal that feels luxurious without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re a fan of Cantonese cuisine or new to this style of cooking, Steamed Garlic Shrimp with Vermicelli is sure to impress. Its combination of tender shrimp, flavorful sauce, and soft noodles makes for a satisfying and memorable meal that will leave you coming back for more.