Garlic Butter Shrimp Tom Xao Bo Toi Recipe

Craving something absolutely mouthwatering? I just whipped up the most irresistible garlic butter shrimp that’s swimming in flavor and bursting with a fresh, herby kick—trust me, you won’t be able to stop at just one bite!

In this Garlic Butter Shrimp Tom Xao Bo Toi recipe, I love how the richness of unsalted butter and the boldness of minced garlic create a savory symphony with plump shrimp. The combination of fish sauce, lemon juice, and a hint of sugar balances the flavors perfectly.

I like serving this with steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce, and I think the fresh cilantro and scallions add a vibrant touch.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Tom Xao Bo Toi Recipe Ingredients

• Shrimp: Rich in protein, low in calories, and an excellent source of iodine and selenium.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flavor; contains fat-soluble vitamins like A, E, and K.
• Garlic: Boosts immune function, lowers blood pressure, and offers antioxidant properties.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, rich in antioxidants, reduces inflammation.
• Fish Sauce: Adds umami and saltiness; made from fermented fish, enhancing depth of flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the dish; high in vitamin C, providing a fresh, tangy flavor.
• Cilantro: Freshness and fragrance; rich in antioxidants and supports detoxification.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Tom Xao Bo Toi Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped scallions
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Steamed rice, for serving

How to Make this Garlic Butter Shrimp Tom Xao Bo Toi Recipe

1. In a large pan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with the olive oil.

2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the pan, seasoning with salt and pepper.

4. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side, until they start turning pink.

5. Flip the shrimp and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan.

6. Stir in the fish sauce, lemon juice, and sugar, and cook until the shrimp are fully pink and cooked through, about 2 more minutes.

7. If desired, add the red pepper flakes for some heat.

8. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro and scallions.

9. Allow the shrimp to sit for 1 minute to absorb the flavors.

10. Serve the garlic butter shrimp hot over steamed rice.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Tom Xao Bo Toi Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pan
2. Spatula
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Measuring spoons
6. Mixing spoon or tongs
7. Rice cooker or pot for steaming rice
8. Small bowl (optional, for mixing ingredients)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
  A: Yes, just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before use to ensure even cooking.
• Q: Is there a substitute for fish sauce?
  A: Soy sauce or tamari can be used as a substitute if you prefer or need a soy-based alternative.
• Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
  A: Increase the red pepper flakes, or add a finely chopped fresh chili for more heat.
• Q: Can I use pre-minced garlic?
  A: Freshly minced garlic is recommended for the best flavor, but pre-minced garlic can be used in a pinch.
• Q: What can I use instead of cilantro if I don’t like it?
  A: Fresh parsley or basil can be a great substitute if you prefer a different herb.
• Q: How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?
  A: Ensure the shrimp are cooked over medium heat and watch them closely; they only need about 2-3 minutes per side.
• Q: Can this dish be served without rice?
  A: Absolutely! You can serve it with noodles, salad, or crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Tom Xao Bo Toi Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Olive oil: Substitute with canola oil or vegetable oil.
• Lemon juice: Substitute with lime juice or white wine vinegar for a similar tang.
• Fish sauce: Substitute with soy sauce or tamari for a less distinct flavor.
• Cilantro: Substitute with fresh parsley if you prefer a milder taste.
• Red pepper flakes: Substitute with a pinch of cayenne pepper for a different type of heat.

Pro Tips

1. Butter Basting Technique For richer flavor, as the shrimp cooks, use a spoon to occasionally baste them with the melted butter and garlic mixture. This will help intensify the buttery garlic flavor throughout the shrimp.

2. Shrimp Prep Before cooking, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them sear nicely in the pan and prevents steaming.

3. Garlic Infusion Don’t rush cooking the garlic. Allow it to gently infuse into the butter over medium heat. Be cautious not to let the garlic brown, as this will introduce a bitter taste.

4. Timing with Citrus For a fresher citrus punch, add the lemon juice right at the end of cooking, off the heat. This preserves its bright flavor and prevents it from becoming too mellow or bitter during cooking.

5. Rice Enhancement To enhance the dish further, consider seasoning your steamed rice with a pinch of salt and a few drops of lemon juice before serving. This will complement and elevate the flavors of the shrimp.