If you’re craving something that’s both luxurious and delightfully fresh, the Chinese Peaches and Cream Shrimp Recipe is going to steal your heart. This vibrant dish combines succulent shrimp with the natural sweetness of ripe peaches, all enveloped in a silky, savory cream sauce that’s lightly infused with ginger and garlic. It’s a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that feels both indulgent and wonderfully balanced. Whether you’re serving it for a special dinner or just want to elevate your weeknight menu, this recipe delivers a unique twist on classic Chinese-inspired cooking that’s easy to master and sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes the Chinese Peaches and Cream Shrimp Recipe so approachable is that it uses simple, fresh ingredients that each play an essential role. From the juicy peaches adding a burst of natural sweetness to the creamy sauce that holds everything together, every element contributes to the dish’s irresistible charm.
- Raw shrimp (1 pound): Peeled and deveined shrimp provide tender, juicy protein as the star of the dish.
- Ripe peaches (2, sliced): Their sweetness and delicate texture perfectly complement the savory cream sauce.
- Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): Helps to sauté the shrimp and garlic evenly without overpowering flavors.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds a fragrant base note that makes your kitchen smell irresistible.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates a rich, luscious sauce that ties the dish together beautifully.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Injects classic umami flavor for depth and balance.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): Enhances sweetness and smoothness, pairing wonderfully with the peaches.
- Fresh grated ginger (½ teaspoon): Offers a gentle warmth and zest that lifts the entire dish.
- Cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water): Essential for thickening the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Seasoning that sharpens and rounds out the flavors.
- Chopped green onions (for garnish): A fresh, vibrant finishing touch to brighten every bite.
How to Make Chinese Peaches and Cream Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Shrimp
Start by rinsing your shrimp under cold water and patting them dry to ensure they sear nicely. Lightly season them with salt and pepper – this simple step enhances their natural flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Heat the vegetable oil over medium heat in a large pan until shimmering. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. The garlic will release its fragrant aroma, creating a delicious foundation for the sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, just until they turn a beautiful pink and curl up slightly. Remove them from the pan and set aside so they don’t overcook later.
Step 4: Craft the Creamy Sauce
In the same pan, pour in the heavy cream, soy sauce, honey, and freshly grated ginger. Stir everything together and simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and develop a silky texture that’s truly comforting.
Step 5: Incorporate the Peaches
Gently fold in your sliced peaches, letting them cook for 2 to 3 minutes more. They’ll soften slightly but still hold their shape, providing a juicy, fruity contrast to the rich sauce.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
Slowly stir in your prepared cornstarch slurry to the pan, cooking for another minute. You’ll see the sauce thicken into a creamy coating that clings beautifully to every bite of shrimp and peach.
Step 7: Bring It All Together
Return your cooked shrimp to the pan and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Give it a final taste, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before removing from heat.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor. Your Chinese Peaches and Cream Shrimp Recipe is now ready to delight.
How to Serve Chinese Peaches and Cream Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped green onions are the obvious choice, but a light dusting of toasted sesame seeds or a few sprigs of fresh cilantro can add extra flair and flavor. These simple additions elevate the dish visually and add fresh, vibrant notes that complement the creamy sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with plain jasmine rice or steamed basmati to soak up the luscious sauce. For a vegetable side, lightly steamed broccoli or snap peas add crunch and contrast while keeping the meal light and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the shrimp and peaches over a bed of fluffy rice in a shallow bowl. Garnish with thin slices of peach, a sprinkle of green onions, and maybe a small drizzle of chili oil for a hint of heat. For entertaining, consider plating in individual small bowls to showcase the colors and textures up close.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chinese Peaches and Cream Shrimp Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The creamy sauce may thicken more upon cooling, but a quick reheating will bring it right back to its silky goodness.
Freezing
While shrimp dishes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to one month. Place the dish in a freezer-safe container, making sure to cool it completely before sealing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream sauce from breaking. Adding a splash of water or cream can refresh the sauce if it’s become too thick. Avoid microwaving, which can cause the shrimp to toughen unexpectedly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture, which can alter the cooking process and texture.
Are fresh peaches necessary, or can I use canned?
Fresh ripe peaches are best here for their juicy sweetness and texture, but if you only have canned, choose those packed in juice (not syrup), and drain well to avoid diluting the sauce.
How spicy is this dish?
This Chinese Peaches and Cream Shrimp Recipe is mild and creamy with gentle warmth from ginger, but you can always add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil if you prefer a bit more heat.
Can I substitute the cream with a non-dairy option?
Heavy cream provides the signature richness, but for a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream. It will add a slight coconut flavor that pairs interestingly with the peaches and shrimp.
What’s the best way to peel and devein shrimp?
Use a small paring knife or shrimp deveiner tool to remove the shell and gently cut along the back to pull out the vein. Rinse under cold water and pat dry before cooking to ensure the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried something quite like the Chinese Peaches and Cream Shrimp Recipe, you’re in for a treat. This dish is a delightful mix of creamy, sweet, and savory all focused on the juicy shrimp and fresh peaches. It’s not only satisfying to eat but truly fun to make. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy shrimp with a twist!
Print
Chinese Peaches and Cream Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
Chinese Peaches and Cream Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with the sweet and tangy flavors of ripe peaches, all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. Quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe offers a harmonious blend of fruity sweetness and savory notes, enhanced with garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey. Garnished with fresh green onions, it makes for an elegant and tasty meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasonings
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce and Flavorings
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
Produce
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Shrimp: Rinse and pat dry the shrimp thoroughly. Season them lightly with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor before cooking.
- Heat Oil: Place a large pan over medium heat and add the vegetable oil, allowing it to heat up properly for sautéing.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Create Sauce: In the same pan, pour in the heavy cream, soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger. Stir well to combine the ingredients and cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Add Peaches: Gently fold in the sliced peaches, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peaches become tender but still hold their shape.
- Thicken Sauce: Mix the cornstarch slurry and stir it into the pan to thicken the sauce. Cook for another minute or until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss them gently in the peach cream sauce to coat evenly.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust salt and pepper as needed for balanced flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh, colorful garnish. Serve immediately for best taste.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm peaches to ensure they hold their shape during cooking.
- Adjust honey and soy sauce to your preference for sweetness and saltiness balance.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Ensure shrimp is fresh or properly thawed before cooking to optimize texture and flavor.
