The Shrimp Kung Pao Noodles are a perfect combination of tender shrimp, stir-fried vegetables, and the rich, spicy Kung Pao sauce. The peanuts add an incredible crunch that contrasts perfectly with the smooth noodles. Each bite is bursting with flavors from the ginger, garlic, and soy-based sauce, making it a savory, satisfying dish.
This dish is perfect for a quick dinner, whether you’re craving something spicy or looking for a filling meal. The best part is, you can easily adjust the heat level to suit your taste—add more chili paste for an extra kick or keep it mild. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special treat, Shrimp Kung Pao Noodles will definitely impress anyone at your table!
Full Recipe:
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8 oz. noodles
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1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1 tbsp vegetable oil
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1 onion, chopped
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1 bell pepper, chopped
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1 zucchini, sliced
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2 tbsp soy sauce
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1 tbsp rice vinegar
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1 tbsp hoisin sauce
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1 tbsp chili paste
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1-inch piece ginger, grated
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1/4 cup unsalted dry roasted peanuts
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1/4 cup green onions, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Cook noodles according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and sauté for 2-3 minutes until pink. Remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add onion, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for 4-5 minutes until tender.
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Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for 1 more minute.
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Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, chili paste, and cooked noodles to the pan. Stir well to combine.
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Toss shrimp back into the pan along with peanuts and green onions.
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Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 400 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction
Shrimp Kung Pao Noodles combine the savory and spicy elements of Chinese cuisine with a modern noodle dish. This recipe is a vibrant twist on the traditional Kung Pao chicken, replacing poultry with tender shrimp for a lighter yet equally flavorful experience. The marriage of stir-fried shrimp, crunchy bell peppers, and the rich, spicy sauce makes it a one-pan wonder that’s both quick and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, Shrimp Kung Pao Noodles bring a mouthwatering balance of spice, umami, and texture that will leave everyone at the table coming back for more.
The History of Kung Pao
The origin of Kung Pao dates back to the Qing Dynasty in China, where it was a favorite dish of the governor of Sichuan, Ding Baozhen. The dish has since traveled far beyond its homeland, with variations around the world. Typically made with chicken or beef, Kung Pao dishes are known for their bold flavors, including soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and the signature heat from Sichuan peppercorns and dried chilies. Over the years, the recipe has evolved, and today, Kung Pao is one of the most recognizable Chinese dishes in the Western world.
Why Shrimp Makes a Perfect Substitute
While chicken or beef may be the more traditional options for a Kung Pao dish, shrimp makes an excellent alternative. Shrimp cooks quickly, absorbing the flavors of the sauce beautifully. Its sweet and delicate flavor pairs perfectly with the heat and tang of the Kung Pao sauce. Additionally, shrimp is lower in fat and calories compared to other meats, making this dish a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a lighter version of the classic, shrimp is the ideal substitute.
The Role of Noodles
The addition of noodles to this dish transforms it into a hearty meal. While traditional Kung Pao is typically served with rice, the noodles in this recipe provide a satisfying base that soaks up the delicious sauce. Spaghetti works perfectly in this dish, acting as a neutral canvas for the bold flavors of the Kung Pao sauce. However, you can also substitute the spaghetti with other types of noodles such as udon or rice noodles, depending on your preference. The noodles add texture and make the dish more filling, turning it into a complete meal.
The Kung Pao Sauce
At the heart of Shrimp Kung Pao Noodles is the sauce. The key to a great Kung Pao sauce lies in achieving the right balance between salty, sweet, sour, and spicy. The soy sauce and chicken broth provide a savory umami base, while the sweet chili sauce and rice vinegar add depth and tang. The Sriracha gives it that unmistakable spicy kick, which can be adjusted depending on how much heat you prefer. This sauce is thickened with cornstarch, ensuring that it coats the noodles and shrimp perfectly.
The Vegetables: Bell Peppers and More
To bring freshness and crunch to this dish, bell peppers are added. The sweet and slightly tangy flavor of the bell peppers pairs beautifully with the shrimp and sauce. The vegetables also provide a burst of color, making the dish visually appealing. Other vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots, can be added or substituted, depending on what’s in season or what you have on hand. The combination of vegetables adds both texture and nutritional value to the dish, making it a well-rounded meal.
The Topping: Peanuts and Cilantro
The final touches of peanuts and cilantro are what truly elevate this dish. Roasted peanuts add a crunchy texture and an additional layer of flavor that complements the savory shrimp and spicy sauce. Fresh cilantro, on the other hand, adds a burst of herbal freshness that cuts through the richness of the dish. These toppings not only make the dish more flavorful but also add visual appeal, with the green cilantro and golden peanuts standing out against the rich sauce.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion
Shrimp Kung Pao Noodles is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a casual weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. It’s quick and easy to prepare, requiring just 40 minutes from start to finish, yet it offers a complex and satisfying array of flavors that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s customizable—you can adjust the heat level, swap out ingredients, or make it vegetarian by omitting the shrimp and adding tofu or tempeh.
Tips for Perfecting Shrimp Kung Pao Noodles
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Cook the Noodles al dente: Since the noodles will absorb the sauce, it’s important not to overcook them. Keep them slightly firm to maintain texture.
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Adjust the Spice: If you’re not a fan of too much heat, you can reduce the amount of Sriracha or sweet chili sauce in the recipe. Conversely, if you love spice, feel free to add more!
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Make It Ahead: While this dish is best served fresh, the sauce and shrimp can be prepared in advance, making it even easier to whip up during a busy evening.
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Add Extra Veggies: Don’t hesitate to add other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms to bulk up the dish and add more nutritional value.
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Use High-Quality Shrimp: For the best flavor, use fresh, sustainably sourced shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Conclusion
Shrimp Kung Pao Noodles is a dynamic and flavorful dish that brings together the best of Chinese cuisine in a quick and satisfying meal. The sweet, spicy, and savory Kung Pao sauce, combined with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked noodles, creates a well-balanced dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The addition of fresh vegetables, roasted peanuts, and cilantro elevates the dish, providing both texture and vibrant color. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a hit every time.