Spicy Honey Orange Shrimp (Xiang La Fengmi Xia)

Preparation

1. Step 1

   In a large bowl, stir together 1 cup tapioca starch, 1 Tbsp. garlic powder, 1 tsp. salt, and 1 tsp. ground black pepper. Add 7 oz./200 g shrimp or prawns, peeled and deveined, and toss to evenly coat. Let the shrimp sit in the mixture for 5 minutes to ensure the coating sticks.

   Step 2

   In a medium bowl, stir together 1 Tbsp. orange zest, ½ cup orange juice, 3 Tbsp. liquid honey, 2 Tbsp. light soy sauce, 1 Tbsp. oyster sauce, 1 Tbsp. minced garlic, 1 tsp. grated peeled fresh ginger, and 1 tsp. red chili flakes.

   Step 3

   Heat ½ cup canola oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F/180°C on a deep-frying thermometer. Add the shrimp to the hot oil and fry for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Using a spider or metal tongs, transfer the shrimp to a plate lined with paper towel to absorb excess oil. Pour out the oil and wipe the pan.

   Step 4

   Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the sauce into the same pan and simmer for 2–3 minutes, until fragrant.

   Step 5

   In a small measuring cup, stir together 2 Tbsp. cornstarch and 3 Tbsp. cold water until smooth.

   Step 6

   Pour the cornstarch mixture into the sauce and stir until combined. Simmer the sauce for 1 minute, or until it has thickened. Increase the heat to high, add the shrimp to the sauce, and sauté for another 1 minute.

   Step 7

   Transfer to a plate and garnish with chopped scallions, both white and green parts. Serve immediately.