Ingredients:
Let’s talk ingredients. The beauty of this dish is its versatility—you can mix and match based on what’s in your fridge or pantry. But if you want the full Thai-inspired experience, here’s what you’ll need:
For the Bowl:
- Shrimp: Fresh or frozen, medium-sized, peeled, and deveined.
- Base: Jasmine rice, brown rice, or quinoa. For a lighter option, try cauliflower rice or mixed greens.
- Veggies: Thinly sliced carrots, bell peppers, cucumber, red cabbage, and snap peas for crunch.
- Herbs: Chopped cilantro, Thai basil, and green onions.
For the Sauce:
- Creamy Peanut or Almond Butter: The base for that classic Thai sauce.
- Soy Sauce or Tamari: Adds a salty, umami kick.
- Lime Juice: For freshness and tang.
- Honey or Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- Garlic and Ginger: Aromatics for depth.
- Chili Flakes: For heat, adjust to your preference.
Optional Toppings:
- Crushed peanuts or cashews for crunch.
- Sesame seeds for a nutty hint.
- A drizzle of sriracha for extra spice.
Preparing Your Ingredi
ents: Setting the Stage
A well-prepped kitchen is a happy kitchen. Here’s how to get everything ready before you start cooking:
1. Cook the Base
Start by cooking your base of choice. If using rice, rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and achieve a fluffy texture. For cauliflower rice, sauté it lightly with a bit of olive oil for added flavor.
2. Chop and Slice
While the rice cooks, slice your veggies thinly. Julienne the carrots, thinly slice the bell peppers, and shred the cabbage. This ensures everything blends seamlessly in the bowl.
3. Prep the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes. Adjust the consistency with water until it’s smooth and pourable.
4. Season the Shrimp
Toss the shrimp in a pinch of salt, pepper, and a dash of chili powder. This step infuses them with flavor before they hit the skillet.
Cooking the Shrimp: The Star of the Bowl
Cooking shrimp is quick and easy, but timing is everything. Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery, so keep an eye on them!
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and slightly golden.
- Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fully opaque. Remove from heat immediately.
