Shrimp With Peanuts

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Shell the shrimp, rinse them and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle with coarse salt and add cold water to cover. Leave for at least five minutes.

2. Step 2

   Mix the cornstarch with one tablespoon water until smooth. Lightly beat the egg white with a fork and mix in the cornstarch mixture.

3. Step 3

   Rinse the shrimp, drain well and coat with the egg white. Leave to marinate for 10 to 15 minutes.

4. Step 4

   Meanwhile, combine the black bean paste with chili, the soy sauce, sugar, sherry and sesame oil in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside.

5. Step 5

   Heat the peanut oil in a wok or deep fryer until it is just hot enough so that a shrimp will float when added to it. Add the remaining shrimp and cook for 15 seconds - just enough to turn them opaque. Stir them with a fork or chopsticks to prevent them from sticking together. Be very careful not to overcook. Remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels. (The oil can be reused twice, with seafood.)

6. Step 6

   Pour off all but a tablespoon of oil. Add the peanuts and fry, stirring frequently until golden. Remove with slotted spoon. All these steps can be prepared in advance.

7. Step 7

   Add the scallions and garlic to the oil and cook for one minute, stirring. Add the black bean-sherry mixture and stir well. Add the peanuts and the shrimp, just long enough to heat through. Serve immediately.