Black rice with Sichuan shrimp

Black Rice with Sichuan Shrimp: An Unforgettable Dinner

Looking for a captivating and flavorful recipe for a special dinner? Black rice with Sichuan shrimp is the perfect choice! This dish not only looks spectacular but also has a unique taste, thanks to its rich flavors and fresh ingredients. Additionally, it is ideal for a romantic dinner or to impress a guest. Let's discover together how to prepare this culinary feast.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Marinating time: 3 hours
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 3 hours and 40 minutes
Servings: 1

Necessary ingredients:

For shrimp and vegetables:
- 150 grams of peeled shrimp
- 1 green onion
- ½ red bell pepper (or more, depending on preferences)
- 2 cm of fresh ginger, grated or finely chopped

For the sauce:
- 1 tablespoon of olive or peanut oil (choose peanut oil for a more authentic taste)
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil (this is the secret to the intense flavor)
- 1 tablespoon of tomato sauce
- 2 teaspoons of rice or cider vinegar (if using another type of vinegar, make sure it is of good quality)
- 2 teaspoons of sugar
- A pinch of salt, to taste

For garnish:
- Cooked black rice (about 75 grams per serving)

A bit of history:
Black rice is often referred to as "forbidden rice" due to its status as a luxury food in the past. It was reserved for the powerful, and today it is appreciated for its nutritional benefits and rich taste. Combined with shrimp, this dish becomes a true delicacy, full of antioxidants and protein.

Preparation:

1. Marinating the shrimp:
Start by preparing the marinade. In a small bowl, mix the olive or peanut oil, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, tomato sauce, vinegar, sugar, and salt. Ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Place the shrimp in the bowl and make sure they are completely covered with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. This step is essential to allow the flavors to penetrate the shrimp well.

2. Preparing the vegetables:
While the shrimp is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Slice the red bell pepper into thin strips and the green onion into rounds. The ginger should be grated or finely chopped to integrate better into the dish.

3. Cooking the shrimp:
After the shrimp has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator. Heat a wok or large pan over medium heat and add the shrimp along with the marinade. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

4. Adding the vegetables:
Once the shrimp are nearly done, add the red bell pepper strips, green onion rounds, and grated ginger. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring continuously, to allow the flavors to combine.

5. Preparing the rice:
Meanwhile, cook the black rice. Rinse the rice under cold water, then place it in a pot with water (1:2 ratio) and a pinch of salt. Boil for about 18 minutes, until the rice is soft but still firm. Drain the excess water and let it rest for a few minutes.

6. Assembling the dish:
On a platter, arrange the black rice in a triangular shape. Place the shrimp and the resulting sauce on top, and for an appealing look, garnish with green onion rounds.

Serving and pairing suggestions:
This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of red or white wine. Additionally, a chilled green tea could be an excellent choice, helping to balance the intense flavors.

Tips and variations:
If you want to transform this recipe, you can add vegetables like carrots or zucchini for extra color and nutrition. Furthermore, for a spicier taste, add a bit of chili paste to the marinade!

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can this recipe be made without shrimp?
Yes, you can replace the shrimp with tofu or diced chicken breast. Make sure the marinating time is long enough to allow the flavors to penetrate.

2. What other side dishes can I use?
Black rice is delicious, but you can also try quinoa or basmati rice.

3. Can I store leftovers?
The shrimp and sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days, but the rice is best consumed fresh.

Nutritional benefits:
Black rice is an excellent source of fiber and antioxidants, while shrimp are rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish not only delicious but also healthy.

This Sichuan shrimp black rice recipe promises to transform an ordinary dinner into an unforgettable culinary experience. Start cooking and enjoy a feast that will impress any guest!