Lunch / Dinner
Stir-Fried Leeks with Salt & Pepper Shrimp
Leeks aren’t usually the star of the show, they’re used to playing a supporting role. But when given the opportunity, they can shine.
Although they don’t look like onions, leeks are in the same family and share some of the same flavor characteristics — they’re just a bit more subtle and sweet. Unlike bulb-forming onions, leeks actually grow in layered stalks. The tops are much greener than the bottoms because they’re exposed to more sunlight. However, only the light portion is edible — the tops are too fibrous and tough to eat.
In this Asian-inspired dish, leeks finally get their turn in the spotlight because they’re in two places. Stir-frying brings out their subtle sweetness, and deep-frying gives them crunch. Spicy salt & pepper shrimp add some protein to this quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
FOR THE FRIZZLED LEEKS, TRIM:
HEAT:
FOR THE SHRIMP, COMBINE:
FOR THE STIR-FRY, HEAT:
STIR IN:
Test Kitchen Tips
Make the Frizzled Leeks first, then have everything ready before you start stir-frying.
Frizzled leeks also make a great soup garnish or hamburger topper.
Instructions
For the frizzled leeks, trim and discard the root end and the dark green part of the leek. Slice leek in half crosswise into two 3-inch pieces, then slice lengthwise into matchstick-sized strips. Rinse strips, then dry well; toss with flour.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high to 350°. Fry strips in oil in two batches until crisp and golden, 1–2 minutes per batch; drain on a paper-towel-lined plate and season with salt.
For the shrimp, combine sesame seeds, salt, pepper flakes, black pepper, and sugar. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and toss with sesame seed mixture.
For the stir-fry, heat 2 Tbsp. oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. Add shrimp and stir-fry until firm, 1–2 minutes per side. Remove skillet from heat; transfer shrimp to a plate.
Heat remaining 1 Tbsp. oil in same skillet over medium-high. Stir in ginger; cook 1 minute. Add leeks; stir-fry until softened, 3–4 minutes.
Stir in bell pepper, broth, and soy sauce; simmer 1 minute.
Serve stir-fried leeks with rice, top with shrimp, and garnish with Frizzled Leeks.
To add lots of spicy flavor to the shrimp, coat them with the sesame seed mixture before stir-frying.
To ensure that the leeks stir-fry quickly, cut diagonal slices for a larger surface area to cook.
Add all the leeks at once — it looks like a lot, but they will cook down. Toss leeks with tongs as they cook.
Nutritional Facts
Nutritional Facts
Per serving
Calories: 312
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 16g 24%
Saturated Fat 3g 15%
Cholesterol 143mg 47%
Sodium 1253mg 52%
Carbs 27g 9%
Fiber 3g 12%
Protein 19g
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.