Burmese Tamarind Shrimp Recipe

Cook Time: 18 minutes  

   Prep Time: 10 minutes

Burmese Tamarind Shrimp Ingredients

Burmese Tamarind Shrimp Instructions

  1. Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl.
  2. Add ground turmeric, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the shrimp. Toss well to coat evenly. Let the shrimp marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature.
  3. In a small bowl, combine tamarind paste, fish sauce, palm sugar, and 1/4 cup water. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth. Set aside.
  4. Heat 2 tablespoons of peanut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  5. Add the marinated shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  6. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of peanut oil to the same skillet. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced shallots. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the shallots are softened.
  7. Add the sliced red chili (if using) and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften.
  8. Pour the tamarind sauce mixture into the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  9. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them thoroughly in the tamarind sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are heated through and well glazed.
  10. Turn off the heat and stir in fresh lime juice.
  11. Transfer the shrimp and sauce to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced scallions before serving.

Estimated Calories: 210, Servings: 4

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Burmese Tamarind Shrimp History

Burmese Tamarind Shrimp has a great backstory that is as lively as the flavors it brings to the table. The dish's cultural origins are rooted in the bustling markets and riverside towns of Myanmar, where shrimp is as common as a good joke at a family gathering. Tamarind, with its tangy punch, was introduced through ancient trade routes, making this recipe a delicious testament to Myanmar's history of culinary exchange. It is said that the best way to experience Burmese hospitality is to be invited to a home-cooked meal, and if you are lucky, you will find this dish front and center, proving that food is the universal language of friendship and quick-witted banter.
Over time, the recipe for Burmese Tamarind Shrimp has evolved faster than a rumor in a small village. Originally, it was a simple, easy dish meant to be cooked fast over open flames, but as new ingredients and cooking methods made their way into Myanmar, home cooks started experimenting. Some swapped out traditional shrimp for whatever seafood was freshest, while others added a healthy dose of local herbs to keep things interesting. The best part about this evolution is that it has made the dish accessible to everyone, from busy parents looking for a quick weeknight meal to ambitious chefs eager to put their own spin on a classic.
Regional adaptations of this dish are as diverse as the country's landscapes. In coastal areas, cooks might toss in extra seafood for a good, hearty meal, while inland regions often use more vegetables to stretch the recipe and keep it healthy. Some regions prefer their tamarind shrimp with a fiery kick, while others keep it mild and focus on the tangy, sweet notes. No matter where you go, you will find that the best version is always the one made with love and a little bit of local flair. It is a great example of how a single recipe can unite a country while still celebrating its unique, delicious differences.

Burmese Tamarind Shrimp Story

The first time I encountered this dish, I was a pint sized kitchen assistant, mostly in charge of taste testing and making a mess. My grandmother, the undisputed champion of family recipes, would always say, "The best meals are the ones that disappear the fastest." She was right. The aroma would sneak through the house, luring even the most stubborn cousins away from their cartoons. I remember the good natured chaos as we all crowded around the table, each of us convinced we deserved the biggest helping.
What made that day truly great was how easy it was to forget about everything else. Homework, chores, and sibling rivalries all vanished with each delicious bite. My uncle, who claimed to be on a healthy diet, always managed to find room for seconds, insisting that anything made with love had to be good for you. The laughter was loud, the stories were wild, and the food was gone in record time. If there was a world record for quick disappearing acts, our family would have won it that afternoon.
Even now, whenever I catch a whiff of something similar, I am instantly transported back to that bustling kitchen. The memory is a recipe for happiness, seasoned with nostalgia and a dash of mischief. It reminds me that the best moments are often the simplest ones, shared with people you love and a meal that is as easy to enjoy as it is fast to vanish. If only cleaning up afterward was as quick as eating, childhood would have been perfect!

Burmese Tamarind Shrimp Pairings

If you are looking for the best flavors to complement a tangy tamarind shrimp, think about the magic of sweet, sour, and a little bit of heat. Burmese cuisine is famous for its bold and balanced flavors, so a good pairing would be something that can stand up to the delicious punch of tamarind. A quick squeeze of lime, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or even a dash of chili flakes can make your taste buds do a happy dance. The great thing about these flavor boosters is that they are easy to find and fast to use, making your meal feel like a chef's secret recipe without any of the stress.
Now, let us talk about sides, because every shrimp deserves a tasty companion. A healthy and easy side for this dish could be a simple cucumber salad with a light vinegar dressing, which adds a refreshing crunch and cools down any spicy kick. If you want something a bit more filling, coconut rice is a great choice, soaking up all those delicious juices like a pro. For a quick and fast option, steamed green beans or snap peas tossed with a little garlic are always a good idea. These sides are not just tasty, they are also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies, making your meal feel like a well-rounded recipe for success.
Of course, no meal is complete without a drink to wash it all down. For a non-alcoholic option, a chilled lemongrass iced tea is a delicious and healthy way to keep things cool and refreshing. If you are feeling a bit more festive, a light and crisp lager or a citrusy white wine can be a great match for the tangy shrimp. The best part? These drinks are easy to prepare and quick to serve, so you can spend less time bartending and more time enjoying your meal. Whether you go for something fancy or keep it simple, a good drink will always make your Burmese feast feel extra special.

Healthy Burmese Tamarind Shrimp Tips

If you're looking to boost the health factor of your favorite Burmese Tamarind Shrimp recipe, you're in for a treat! Let's turn this already delicious and authentic dish into a health superstar without sacrificing any of that tasty, homemade magic. First, swap out the usual oil for a heart-healthy option like olive or avocado oil-your arteries will thank you. When gathering your ingredients, go for fresh, wild-caught shrimp to maximize those omega-3s, and don't be shy with the veggies; toss in some bell peppers or snap peas for extra vitamins and fiber. For the tamarind sauce, use less sugar or try a natural sweetener to keep things light and lively. If you're wondering how to make this easy and quick recipe even better, here's a perfect tip: steam or grill the shrimp instead of frying for a lighter, health-boosting twist. With these simple changes, you'll have the best, most health-conscious version of this classic, and your taste buds (and waistline) will be doing a happy dance. Remember, the best recipes are the ones that make you feel as good as they taste-so go ahead, make your Burmese-inspired Tamarind Shrimp both delicious and health-friendly!

About Burmese Tamarind Shrimp Recipe

If you're on the hunt for the best and most delicious way to spice up your dinner routine, look no further than this authentic Burmese Tamarind Shrimp recipe. This dish is the perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors, making it a true crowd-pleaser. The easy and quick preparation means you can whip up a homemade meal that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant, but with the comfort of your own kitchen. Wondering how to make this tasty dish? All you need are a few simple ingredients and a little bit of culinary curiosity.
The secret to the best Tamarind Shrimp lies in the balance of flavors and the freshness of the ingredients. Tamarind brings a unique tanginess that pairs perfectly with succulent shrimp, while garlic, onions, and a touch of chili add depth and a little kick. If you're looking for tips to make your recipe stand out, try marinating the shrimp for a few extra minutes or adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end. This easy recipe is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile-serve it with rice, noodles, or even as a zesty appetizer.
For anyone who's ever wondered how to make an authentic Burmese dish at home, this Tamarind Shrimp recipe is your answer. It's the perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with something both simple and delicious. Don't be surprised if your family starts requesting this tasty meal on repeat! With the right ingredients and a few helpful tips, you'll have the best homemade Tamarind Shrimp on the table in no time.