Longxia He

Introduction

Longxia He, a traditional dish from the rich culinary heritage of China, translates to "Lobster Ye" and features delicious lobster as the star ingredient. Originating from the coastal regions, this dish was traditionally prepared to celebrate festive occasions, paying homage to the bounties of the sea. Over the centuries, various adaptations have emerged, each region adding its own unique twist to the dish. This recipe reveals the secrets to preparing an authentic Longxia He, combining both traditional techniques and modern touches.

Ingredients

• Lobster - 2 lbs
• Ginger - 1 tablespoon, minced
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Scallion - 2, chopped
• Soy Sauce - 3 tablespoons
• Rice Wine - 2 tablespoons
• Sugar - 1 teaspoon
• Chili Paste - 1 tablespoon
• Sesame Oil - 1 teaspoon
• Pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste

Preparation

Cleaning the Lobster

Start by thoroughly rinsing the lobster under cold water to remove any impurities. Using a sharp knife, cut the lobster in half, lengthwise, ensuring you keep all the juices intact, as they add to the flavor. Remove the vein and stomach from the lobster and pat it dry with a paper towel.

Marinating the Lobster

In a bowl, combine the ginger, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Massage this mixture gently into the flesh of the lobster halves and let them marinate for 15 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and tenderizes the meat, preparing it perfectly for cooking.

Cooking the Longxia He

Stir-Frying the Ingredients

Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil in a wok over medium heat. Add the marinated lobster, flesh side down, and sear for about 3 minutes until the surface turns golden brown. Flip the lobster and add the remaining oil.

Adding the Sauce

Once the lobster shells start to turn bright red, mix in the soy sauce, rice wine, and sugar. Stir gently, allowing the lobster to simmer in this savory concoction for 10 minutes. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, add a spoonful of chili paste at this stage.

Final Touches

As the sauce thickens, sprinkle in the scallions and season with pepper. Allow everything to come together for an additional 3 minutes. The aroma at this point should be nothing short of intoxicating. Ensure the lobster is cooked through but still tender by testing a piece with a fork.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Longxia He freshly prepared on a large serving platter, garnished with additional chopped scallions and a light drizzle of sesame oil. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or crispy Chinese buns to soak up the flavorful sauce. Consider serving with a side of pickled vegetables for a balanced meal.

Cooking Tips

• Use live lobster for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust the spice level to your preference by modifying the amount of chili paste.
• Pay attention to the cooking timer to avoid overcooking the lobster.
• You can add vegetables like bok choy or mushrooms to the dish for added texture and nutrients.

Conclusion

Longxia He is a celebration of the rich marine flavors that have been a staple along China’s coastlines. This dish promises an indulgence into something exciting and unique—each bite balancing the sweetness of the lobster with the aromatic, savory sauce enveloping it. Whether you are hosting a grand feast or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, Longxia He is sure to leave a mark.