Shrimp Egg Foo Young is a delicious and satisfying Chinese-inspired dish that brings together the savory goodness of shrimp and eggs with a medley of vegetables, all served in a flavorful gravy. This dish is often considered a type of Chinese omelet, but with its unique combination of shrimp, onions, mushrooms, and other ingredients, it offers a rich, hearty meal that can stand alone or serve as a side. The crispy exterior of the omelet, combined with the tender shrimp and veggies inside, creates a satisfying contrast in texture and flavor.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup onion, diced
1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
1/4 cup bean sprouts
4 large eggs, beaten
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
2 teaspoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup cornstarch (optional, for thickening gravy)

For the Gravy:

1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch, mixed with 1 tablespoon water
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon white pepper

Directions

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the onion, mushrooms, and bean sprouts. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and add the cooked shrimp, sautéed vegetables, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture, spreading it out evenly in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the edges start to set and the bottom is golden brown. Flip and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until fully set and golden.
For the gravy, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and white pepper in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water into a slurry, then stir it into the gravy. Continue to cook until the gravy thickens.
Serve the Shrimp Egg Foo Young with the hot gravy poured over the top. Garnish with additional green onions if desired.

Nutrients

Calories: 250 kcal
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 600mg

The Origins and History of Egg Foo Young

Egg Foo Young has a long history that dates back to China, though its true origins are somewhat unclear. Some food historians believe that Egg Foo Young was inspired by a traditional Chinese dish called Fu Yung or Fu Yung Egg Foo, which involved eggs and vegetables cooked together in a stir-fry style. The dish is believed to have been created in the 19th century, during the Qing Dynasty, as a way to make use of leftover ingredients and create a hearty meal that could be prepared quickly.

When Chinese immigrants came to the United States, they brought their culinary traditions with them, and Egg Foo Young became popular in Chinese-American cuisine. Over time, the dish was adapted to cater to local tastes, and in the U.S., it often featured a variety of proteins such as shrimp, chicken, or pork. The dish was also frequently served with a rich brown gravy made from soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings, which became a hallmark of the Americanized version of Egg Foo Young.

As the popularity of Chinese food grew in the West, Egg Foo Young became a staple of Chinese-American takeout menus and was often served alongside other popular dishes like General Tso’s Chicken, Sweet and Sour Pork, and Chop Suey. The dish’s versatility, ease of preparation, and satisfying flavors made it a favorite in Chinese restaurants across the country.

Why You Should Try Shrimp Egg Foo Young

There are many reasons why Shrimp Egg Foo Young should be on your list of must-try dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or something that’s sure to impress guests, this dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy your taste buds. Here are some of the reasons why you should give it a try:

Packed with Flavor: Shrimp Egg Foo Young offers a wonderful blend of savory flavors. The shrimp brings a light sweetness and depth of flavor, while the vegetables, including mushrooms, onions, and bean sprouts, add texture and freshness. The eggs themselves are fluffy and light, and the rich, savory gravy ties everything together with its umami flavor.
Customizable Ingredients: While the traditional recipe uses shrimp, you can easily swap in other proteins like chicken, pork, or tofu. You can also adjust the vegetables to your liking—adding bell peppers, spinach, or even peas to create a dish that fits your preferences. This makes Shrimp Egg Foo Young highly adaptable and versatile.
Quick and Easy to Make: One of the best aspects of Shrimp Egg Foo Young is how quickly it comes together. The dish only takes about 30 minutes to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful but don’t have much time to cook. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, and you don’t need any special kitchen equipment—just a pan or skillet.
Satisfying and Hearty: With its combination of shrimp, vegetables, and eggs, Shrimp Egg Foo Young is a complete and satisfying meal. The eggs provide a light, fluffy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender shrimp and crunchy vegetables. The gravy adds an extra layer of flavor, making it a comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of day.
Healthy and Nutritious: Despite its rich and flavorful profile, Shrimp Egg Foo Young can be a relatively healthy meal. Shrimp is a low-calorie protein that’s packed with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D. The vegetables used in the dish provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals that contribute to overall health. Plus, the dish is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following a low-carb or gluten-free diet.
Great for Entertaining: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a meal for a family gathering, Shrimp Egg Foo Young is a dish that will impress your guests. Its unique combination of ingredients and flavors makes it a conversation starter, and the fact that it’s both delicious and visually appealing will make your guests want to ask for the recipe.

How to Serve Shrimp Egg Foo Young

Shrimp Egg Foo Young is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences and what you’re pairing it with. Here are a few great options for serving:

Over Steamed Rice: In traditional Chinese cuisine, Egg Foo Young is often served with steamed rice. The light, fluffy rice acts as the perfect base to absorb the savory gravy and provides a neutral contrast to the rich, flavorful omelet. This combination makes for a hearty and satisfying meal.
With Noodles: If you’re craving something a little different, serve Shrimp Egg Foo Young with stir-fried noodles instead of rice. The noodles can soak up the gravy just like rice, creating a deliciously satisfying dish with a slightly different texture.
As a Side Dish: While Shrimp Egg Foo Young can easily serve as a main course, it can also be served as a side dish. Pair it with other Chinese-inspired dishes such as stir-fried vegetables, fried rice, or even a light soup. This way, you can create a larger meal with a variety of flavors and textures.
In Lettuce Wraps: For a fun and interactive way to serve Shrimp Egg Foo Young, try wrapping portions of the omelet in fresh lettuce leaves. This adds a refreshing crunch and makes for a fun, hand-held meal. You can even drizzle the gravy on top of the lettuce wraps for extra flavor.
As Part of a Dim Sum Spread: If you’re hosting a dim sum-style meal, Shrimp Egg Foo Young can be a great addition to the spread. Serve it alongside other small bites like dumplings, spring rolls, and steamed buns for a delightful and diverse meal.

Health Benefits of Shrimp Egg Foo Young

Shrimp Egg Foo Young offers several health benefits, thanks to its combination of shrimp, vegetables, and eggs. Here are some of the key health benefits of this dish:

High in Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, which is important for muscle growth, repair, and overall health. Protein also helps keep you feeling full longer, making Shrimp Egg Foo Young a satisfying meal.
Rich in Essential Nutrients: Shrimp is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium. These nutrients support energy production, immune function, and overall health. Additionally, the eggs used in the dish are a good source of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids.
Loaded with Vegetables: The vegetables used in Shrimp Egg Foo Young, such as mushrooms, onions, and bean sprouts, are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and essential nutrients. These vegetables promote digestive health, boost the immune system, and help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Low in Carbs: Shrimp Egg Foo Young is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a good option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. When served with a low-carb side like steamed vegetables or a salad, it can be a healthy, well-rounded meal.
Supports Heart Health: The use of healthy oils, such as sesame oil and vegetable oil, in the preparation of the dish provides beneficial fats that support cardiovascular health. Shrimp is also low in fat, making it a heart-healthy protein option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Shrimp Egg Foo Young is a flavorful and versatile dish that combines the richness of shrimp, vegetables, and eggs in a satisfying omelet-style meal. Its easy preparation, customizable ingredients, and delicious taste make it a perfect dish for busy weeknights, family dinners, or entertaining guests. The dish is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it not only tasty but also nutritious.

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