Sweet and Sour Shrimp with Rice

This delicious shrimp recipe with tofu and pineapple is perfect for a quick yet sophisticated dinner, full of exotic flavors and interesting textures. We will start by preparing the rice, the staple ingredient that will support this dish. Boil the rice according to the package instructions, ensuring you get perfectly cooked, fluffy, and delicate rice.

If you choose to use tofu, it is essential to remove the excess water from it. Place the tofu on paper towels for a few minutes, then cut it into cubes about 1 cm in size. This step is crucial to achieve a pleasant texture during cooking. After cutting the tofu, combine it with the shrimp in a bowl, allowing the flavors to meld.

Meanwhile, prepare the pan. Heat sesame oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. The sesame oil will add a distinctive nutty flavor that will enhance the dish. Add the shrimp and tofu mixture to the pan and sauté everything for about 3 minutes. If you prefer to sauté only the shrimp, feel free to do so; you will get an intense and concentrated flavor.

Once the shrimp are ready, transfer them to a dish and set them aside. While the shrimp rest, it's time to prepare the sauce that will add a sweet and sour note. In a bowl, combine water, cornstarch, soy sauce, and sugar. Mix well until the sugar and cornstarch are completely dissolved.

In a tablespoon of olive oil, sauté the onion, bell pepper, ginger, and pineapple for 2 minutes. These ingredients will add a pleasant contrast between the crunchy texture of the vegetables and the sweetness of the pineapple. Add chili seeds and salt to taste, to provide a bit of spice and balance the sweetness.

Return the shrimp to the pan and sauté for another minute, allowing the flavors to combine. Then add the previously prepared liquid mixture. Let it simmer gently for a minute, so the sauce thickens slightly and adheres to the ingredients in the pan.

Once the sauce has reached the desired consistency, serve the delicious shrimp and tofu mixture over the cooked rice. This dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also an explosion of colors on the plate. Enjoy every bite and relish the perfect combination of juicy shrimp, soft tofu, and the vibrant flavors of the vegetables and pineapple!