Hue Spice Temptation

Background and History

Hue Spice Temptation is a dish that reflects the intricate flavors and rich history of the Imperial cuisine of Hue, a city in central Vietnam. Known as the ancient imperial capital, Hue is celebrated for its gastronomic diversity and the perfect balance of flavors in its dishes—spicy, sour, salty, sweet, and bitter. The Hue Spice Temptation combines these unique tastes, offering an explosion of flavors that embodies the essence of Vietnamese culinary traditions.

The Imperial cuisine of Hue dates back to the time of Emperor Nguyen Phuc Khoat, who insisted on culinary excellence in the royal kitchens. This dish, sought after for its rich taste and aromatic blend, offers an insight into the dining experiences of Vietnamese royalty. The meticulous preparation and the vibrant use of spices have been handed down through generations, making it a timeless classic.

Ingredients

• Lemongrass - 2 stalks, finely chopped
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 1-inch piece, grated
• Chili - 2, finely chopped
• Turmeric - 1 tablespoon, ground
• Shrimp - 500g, peeled and deveined
• Fish Sauce - 2 tablespoons
• Coconut Milk - 400ml
• Lime - 1, juiced
• Sugar - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Fresh Basil - for garnish

Preparation

• Begin by preparing all ingredients. Finely chop the lemongrass, garlic, and chili. Grate the ginger. Ensure the shrimp is peeled and deveined.
• In a small bowl, mix the ground turmeric with a tablespoon of water to create a paste.
• Set up the cooking timer for stages in this recipe to ensure perfect timing.

Cooking Process

1. Heat a large pan over medium heat and dry fry the lemongrass for a minute to release its aroma.
2. Add the garlic, ginger, and chili, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant.
3. Introduce the turmeric paste to the mixture, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
4. Gently add the shrimp to the pan and cook until they start to change color.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Season the dish with fish sauce, the juice of the lime, and sugar. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper.
7. Let the dish simmer until the shrimp are fully cooked and have absorbed the vibrant flavors, usually about 5-7 minutes. Use a cooking timer to keep track.

How to Enjoy

Serve the Hue Spice Temptation hot, garnished with fresh basil. It pairs excellently with steamed rice or rice noodles. The sweetness of the coconut milk harmonizes with the spicy kick from the chili and the tang of the lime, creating a dish that is both balanced and complex in flavor. Enjoy the contrasting textures and vibrant colors that make each bite a delight.