Ingredients

  • 2 quarts water
  • 1 pound Napa cabbage, leaves and ribs sliced separately 1/2 inch thick
  • 4 1/2 tablespoons chicken stock or canned low-sodium broth
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon black soy sauce
  • 3/4 teaspoon Asian sesame oil
  • Pinch of freshly ground white pepper
  • 2 teaspoons peanut oil
  • 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1/2 pound medium shrimp, shelled and deveined
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper

Method

  • Bring the water to a boil in a large saucepan.
  • Add the cabbage ribs and cook for 10 seconds.
  • Add the leaves and cook for 20 seconds.
  • Drain the cabbage and rinse under cold water; drain well.
  • In a small bowl, combine the chicken stock with the cornstarch, black soy sauce, sesame oil and white pepper to make the sauce.
  • Warm a wok over high heat for 45 seconds.
  • Add the peanut oil and swirl to coat the wok.
  • Add the ginger and cook for 10 seconds.
  • Stir in the garlic and cook for 10 seconds.
  • Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook, turning once, until they begin to turn pink and curl up, about 15 seconds per side.
  • Add all the cabbage and stir-fry for 2 1/2 minutes.
  • Make a well in the center, pushing the mixture to the side of the wok.
  • Stir the sauce and pour it into the well.
  • Bring to a simmer, stir-frying to blend.
  • Transfer to a platter, sprinkle with the bell pepper and serve.