Caramelized shrimp (tom ram man)

MAKES 2 SERVINGS

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 minced garlic cloves

12 jumbo shrimp (16-20 size)

1 tablespoon caramel (see Note)

1 tablespoon fish sauce

½ teaspoon sugar

Black pepper to taste

¼ onion, cut into strips

Heat oil in saute pan; add garlic. Add shrimp and all ingredients, except onion, and stir together. Cook 2 minutes, and then add onion strips. Simmer for 3 minutes, with lid on, making sure not to overcook.

Note: Either purchase ready-made caramel in Vietnamese grocery stores (or in Asian aisles of major supermarkets) or make your own.

To make: Mix ½ cup sugar and ½ cup water in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until mixture becomes dark in color and is almost smoky. Then squeeze a little fresh lime juice in mixture to prevent solidifying.

Hien Ngo, Hai Yen Vietnamese Cuisine

Nutrition facts per serving: 164 calories, 8 g fat, 1 g saturated fat, 85 mg cholesterol, 12 g carbohydrates, 12 g protein, 815 mg sodium, 0 g fiber