shrimp wrapped w/snowpeas Recipe

20 uncooked large shrimp, peeled, deveined
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1 large garlic clove, pressed
1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder

20 large snow peas, stringed
1 teaspoon oriental sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds, toasted

2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce

20 small wooden skewers or toothpicks

SPICY SHRIMP WRAPPED IN SNOW PEAS

Asian flavors accent this do-ahead appetizer.

Combine shrimp, ginger, vegetable oil, garlic and five-spice powder in medium bowl; toss to blend. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour and up to 4 hours. Bring medium pot of salted water to boil. Add snow peas; cook just until crisp-tender, about 45 seconds.
Drain. Rinse with cold water. Drain; pat dry. Transfer to bowl. Drizzle sesame oil and sesame seeds over; toss to coat. Set aside.

Heat large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp mixture and sauti 3 minutes. Add soy sauce; stir until shrimp are just opaque in center and liquid evaporates, about 1 minute. Transfer to plate and cool completely.

Wrap 1 snow pea lengthwise around each shrimp from head to tail. Secure with skewers. (Can be prepared 6 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate.) Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature.

Makes 20.

Bon Appitit
December 1997