Deep-Frying Shrimp

When we deep-fry shrimp, we leave the tails on and partially butterfly the shrimp so that they cook fast and evenly. With the tails intact, the fried shrimp resemble the colorful tail of the phoenix, the Chinese symbol of rebirth, auspiciousness, and the feminine qualities of yin-yang. One popular name for shrimp prepared this way is Phoenix-Tailed Shrimp. It is also known as Butterflied Shrimp because the shrimp fan out like butterfly wings when fried. Although it is usually an appetizer, deep-fried shrimp makes a fine entrée served on top of Stir-Fried Bok Choy in Garlic Oil.