Vietnamese-Style Lemongrass Boiled Shrimp: A Fragrant & Flavorful Delight

When it comes to easy shrimp recipes, this Vietnamese-style lemongrass boiled shrimp is a standout. It’s light, aromatic, and packed with fresh flavors, making it perfect for a quick meal or an impressive appetizer. The delicate citrusy notes of lemongrass pair beautifully with the natural sweetness of shrimp, while a touch of Old Bay seasoning adds just the right amount of spice. Whether you’re new to boiling shrimp on the stove or a seasoned pro, this dish is simple, delicious, and bound to become one of your best seafood boil recipes.

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Vietnamese-Style Lemongrass Boiled Shrimp

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine Vietnamese

Servings 1

Equipment

• Large pot (for boiling shrimp on the stove)
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Knife and Cutting Board
• Small bowl (for the dipping sauce)
• Serving platter

Ingredients

  

• For the Shrimp
• 1 lb large shrimp shell-on (preferably wild-caught for better flavor)
• 4 cups water
• 2 stalks fresh lemongrass smashed and cut into 3-inch pieces
• 3 cloves garlic smashed
• 1- inch piece of ginger sliced
• 1 small shallot halved
• 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• Juice of 1 lime

For the Dipping Sauce

• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 1 Thai chili finely chopped (optional)
• 1 tsp sugar

Instructions

 

Prepare the Lemongrass Infused Broth

1. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add lemongrass, garlic, ginger, shallot, Old Bay seasoning, fish sauce, sugar, and salt. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
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Cook the Shrimp

1. Once the broth is aromatic, add the shrimp directly into the pot. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn bright pink and curl up. Be careful not to overcook them.

Drain and Serve

1. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the shrimp to a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for extra zest.

Make the Dipping Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix fish sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, Thai chili (if using), and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
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Enjoy!

1. Serve the shrimp warm with the dipping sauce and your favorite shrimp boil side dishes like steamed rice, fresh herbs, or a crisp cucumber salad.

Pairings

This dish pairs beautifully with light, refreshing sides. If you’re a fan of pescatarian recipes, consider serving it with steamed jasmine rice, Vietnamese pickled vegetables, or even a chilled vermicelli noodle salad. If you prefer heartier accompaniments, a baguette for dipping in the flavorful broth would be a fantastic choice.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! If using frozen shrimp, thaw them in cold water for about 10-15 minutes before cooking.

2. What type of shrimp should I use?

Wild-caught shrimp with the shell on works best, as they hold onto more flavor. Both jumbo and large shrimp work well for this recipe.

3. Can I make this a steam shrimp recipe Old Bay variation?

Absolutely! Instead of boiling, place the shrimp in a steaming basket over the flavored broth and steam for 4-5 minutes until cooked.