Moo Shu Shrimp is a flavorful Chinese-American stir-fry that combines tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and scrambled eggs in a savory-sweet sauce. Traditionally served with thin pancakes or tortillas, this dish offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes, making it a popular choice for a quick yet satisfying dinner.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Shrimp and Vegetables:

1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp
2 tablespoons canola oil
1 thinly sliced onion
1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
2 cups shredded coleslaw mix
2 large eggs

For the Marinade and Sauce:

2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
¼ cup vegetable broth
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon garlic paste
1 teaspoon sriracha
1 teaspoon sesame oil
¼ teaspoon coarse black pepper
¼ teaspoon onion powder

Directions

Marinate the Shrimp:
In a large bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, vegetable broth, grated ginger, garlic paste, sriracha, sesame oil, black pepper, and onion powder. Add the shrimp to the marinade and let it sit while preparing the other components.
Cook the Eggs:
Whisk the eggs thoroughly. In a small frying pan over medium-high heat, add a bit of canola oil to coat the pan. Pour in the eggs and cook until set. Remove from the pan and chop into small pieces.
Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large frying pan over medium-high heat, add canola oil. Sauté the sliced onions and mushrooms for about 4 minutes until softened. Add the shredded coleslaw mix and continue to sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
Cook the Shrimp:
Add the marinated shrimp to the pan with the vegetables. Sauté for about 30 seconds, then flip the shrimp. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes until the shrimp are cooked through.
Combine and Serve:
Stir in the chopped eggs, mixing everything well. Serve the Moo Shu Shrimp over cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Nutrients

Calories: Approximately 400–450 kcal
Protein: 30–35g
Fat: 20–25g
Carbohydrates: 25–30g
Fiber: 3–4g
Sugar: 5–7g
Cholesterol: 200–250mg
Sodium: 800–1000mg

The Origins of Moo Shu Shrimp

The dish Moo Shu, also referred to as “Mu Shu,” originates from northern China. Historically, Moo Shu was made with pork, mushrooms, and a variety of vegetables. The term “Moo Shu” is thought to refer to the combination of ingredients being wrapped in pancakes, similar to how a “mu” or “shu” in Chinese signifies wrapping or covering. Over time, the dish evolved, and other proteins like chicken, beef, and shrimp began to take center stage, with Moo Shu Shrimp becoming a favorite in Chinese-American cuisine.

Moo Shu Shrimp stands out from other Chinese dishes due to its rich blend of textures and flavors. The crunchy vegetables, tender shrimp, and scrambled eggs come together harmoniously in a savory sauce, making this dish both hearty and light at the same time. Typically served with pancakes or tortillas to wrap the filling, it provides a fun and interactive dining experience.

Key Ingredients in Moo Shu Shrimp

Moo Shu Shrimp features a variety of ingredients that not only contribute to the delicious flavor but also offer an array of health benefits. The key ingredients include shrimp, vegetables, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Let’s take a closer look at some of these ingredients and their roles in the dish.

Shrimp: Shrimp serves as the star of the dish. It is a low-calorie source of high-quality protein that is packed with nutrients, including vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium. The shrimp absorbs the savory flavors from the marinade and sauce, offering a delicate, slightly sweet taste with a satisfying texture.
Vegetables: The vegetables in Moo Shu Shrimp include onions, shiitake mushrooms, and shredded coleslaw mix. These vegetables add flavor, crunch, and nutrients. Mushrooms, in particular, are known for their umami taste, making them a perfect addition to a savory dish like Moo Shu. Onions add sweetness and depth, while the coleslaw mix provides a fresh, crispy texture.
Eggs: Eggs are used in Moo Shu Shrimp for their rich flavor and protein content. They are scrambled and incorporated into the dish, adding creaminess and binding the other ingredients together. Eggs are a source of essential amino acids, which are important for muscle repair and overall health.
Sauces and Seasonings: The hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice wine vinegar form the flavorful base for the sauce that brings the entire dish together. Hoisin sauce is sweet and slightly tangy, soy sauce adds saltiness and depth, while sesame oil provides a nutty richness. Rice wine vinegar adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness of the hoisin sauce.

Health Benefits of Moo Shu Shrimp

Moo Shu Shrimp is not only a delicious dish but also offers several health benefits. The combination of shrimp, vegetables, and eggs provides a well-rounded meal that includes protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.

High in Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. Protein is also crucial for the production of enzymes and hormones that regulate bodily functions. The eggs in the dish further contribute to the protein content, making this a great meal for those looking to boost their protein intake.
Packed with Nutrients: The vegetables in Moo Shu Shrimp, particularly the shiitake mushrooms and onions, provide an array of nutrients. Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Onions are a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, all of which contribute to a healthy immune system.
Low in Calories and Fat: Shrimp is a low-calorie and low-fat food, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight. The dish is also light on oil, ensuring that it remains a healthy option without sacrificing flavor. The use of sesame oil and a moderate amount of canola oil adds flavor without excessive fat content.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Moo Shu Shrimp is loaded with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, vitamin D, potassium, and selenium. Vitamin B12 is crucial for nerve health and the production of red blood cells, while selenium acts as an antioxidant, supporting the immune system. Potassium is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

Why Moo Shu Shrimp is a Great Dinner Choice

Moo Shu Shrimp is an excellent choice for a variety of reasons. Whether you’re looking for a meal that’s quick and easy to prepare, or you’re in search of a dish that combines delicious flavors with a range of health benefits, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Here are a few reasons why it makes an ideal dinner option:

Quick and Easy to Prepare: Moo Shu Shrimp can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner when you want something healthy and satisfying but don’t have much time to cook.
Customizable: While the recipe traditionally includes shrimp, you can easily substitute the shrimp with other proteins like chicken, pork, or tofu to suit your preferences. Additionally, the vegetables can be adjusted based on what you have on hand, allowing for flexibility and creativity in the kitchen.
Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of shrimp, vegetables, eggs, and savory sauce creates a balanced dish that is rich in flavor and texture. The umami from the mushrooms, the sweetness from the hoisin sauce, and the nuttiness from the sesame oil all come together to create a deeply satisfying meal.
Nutritionally Balanced: Moo Shu Shrimp provides a well-balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and healthy fats. The shrimp and eggs provide high-quality protein, while the vegetables contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The dish is also low in calories and fat, making it suitable for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
Great for Special Occasions or Casual Meals: Moo Shu Shrimp is versatile enough to be served on special occasions or as a casual family meal. It can be paired with rice or wrapped in thin pancakes or tortillas for a fun and interactive dining experience. The dish is also impressive enough to serve to guests, making it a great addition to any dinner party.

Conclusion

Moo Shu Shrimp is a flavorful, nutritious, and versatile dish that is perfect for dinner. With its rich combination of shrimp, vegetables, eggs, and savory sauce, it offers a delicious meal that is both light and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special dish for a family gathering, Moo Shu Shrimp delivers on both flavor and health benefits.

0 Shares