Are you craving a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful meal? Look no further than Halabos na Hipon! This classic Filipino shrimp dish is a testament to the magic of simple cooking – showcasing the natural sweetness of fresh shrimp with minimal fuss. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, Halabos na Hipon is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's one of those easy recipes that feels both incredibly satisfying and healthy. Let’s dive into this delicious journey of homemade cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined (you can leave the tails on if you prefer)
- 1/2 cup butter, unsalted
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
- 1-2 Thai Bird's Eye chilies, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for a savory depth)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice sear. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are completely thawed before cooking.
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Melt the Butter: In a large skillet or wok, melt the butter over medium heat. Don't let it brown; you just want it to become liquid.
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Sauté Garlic (and Chili): Add the minced garlic (and chilies, if using) to the melted butter and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will impart a bitter taste.
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Add Shrimp and Water: Add the shrimp to the skillet and pour in the water. This helps create steam and prevents the shrimp from sticking or burning.
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Simmer and Season: Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If adding soy sauce, incorporate it during the last minute of cooking.
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Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve immediately with steamed rice. This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh.
Cooking Tips for the Best Halabos na Hipon:
- Use Fresh Shrimp: The quality of your shrimp significantly impacts the final flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp whenever possible.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and chili to your preference.
- Add Other Vegetables: For a heartier meal, add other vegetables like sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach during the last minute of cooking.
Variations:
- Lemon Halabos na Hipon: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for a brighter, more citrusy flavor.
- Spicy Halabos na Hipon: Increase the amount of chilies or add a dash of chili garlic sauce for extra heat.
- Garlic Butter Halabos na Hipon: Double the amount of butter for a richer, more decadent dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low
This Halabos na Hipon recipe is a wonderful example of delicious dishes that are both simple and satisfying. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy!