Quick, Spicy Leek and Shrimp Stir-Fry
- 2 pounds leeks, preferably smaller, thinner ones
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 8 ounces peeled and deveined medium shrimp (16 to 20 count), halved lengthwise
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- Serving suggestion: steamed white rice
- Trim the ends and dark green tops from the leeks and discard.
- Cut the leeks in half lengthwise, then crosswise into 1-inch pieces.
- Immerse them in a bowl of cold water, swish to remove any grit and lift them out into a colander.
- Clean the bowl, change the water and repeat until the water remains clear.
- You should have 6 cups leeks.
- Once they are all in the colander, toss them a bit with your fingers to separate the leaves.
- Heat a large skillet over high heat until hot.
- Add 1 tablespoon of the oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan.
- Add half the leeks and a generous pinch each salt and pepper.
- Spread the leeks into a single layer and cook, without stirring, until slightly charred, about 1 minute.
- Stir in a small pinch pepper flakes and continue cooking, without stirring, 1 minute.
- Toss and stir until the leeks just start to wilt, about 1 more minute.
- Transfer to a bowl.
- Repeat with 1 tablespoon of the oil, the remaining leeks, a generous pinch each salt and pepper and another small pinch pepper flakes, adding the leeks to the bowl when done.
- Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in the skillet (let it get really hot).
- Add the shrimp, garlic and another pinch pepper flakes (or to taste).
- Season with salt and pepper, and cook, tossing, until the shrimp just starts to turn pink in spots, less than 1 minute.
- Add the leeks and toss to combine; the shrimp should now be pink.
- Serve immediately over rice if using.
leeks, vegetable oil, kosher salt, red pepper, shrimp, garlic, suggestion
Taken from www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/quick-spicy-leek-and-shrimp-stir-fry.html (may not work)