How to Make Vietnamese Coconut-Caramel Shrimp (Tom Rim) - A Step-by-Step Guide

The rich, bold flavors of Vietnamese cuisine are beloved by many for their unique combination of sweet, savory, and spicy elements. One classic dish that perfectly embodies this culinary tradition is Vietnamese Coconut-Caramel Shrimp, also known as Tom Rim. This dish is a true celebration of fresh seafood, vibrant herbs, and the signature balance of flavors that Vietnamese cooking is known for.

At the heart of this dish is a luxurious caramel sauce that is simmered with tender shrimp ...

Read more Snack recipes

Ingredients

  • 1 pound uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons white sugar
  • ¼ cup coconut water
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 dash sesame oil
  • 1 shallot, minced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives

Information

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 15 mins
  • Additional Time: 15 mins
  • Total Time: 45 mins
  • Servings: 4
  • Yield: 4 servings

  • Clean the shrimp by placing them in a bowl and rinsing them with water. Drain. Add salt and rub into shrimp thoroughly. Rinse well again. Set aside for 15 minutes.
  • Heat sugar in a heavy pot over medium-low heat and stir until melted. Once sugar begins to caramelize, pour in coconut water, using caution so it does not splatter. Pour in maple syrup. Stir until sugar syrup is well combined and smooth. Remove pot from heat and set aside.
  • Warm olive oil and sesame oil in a saute pan over medium heat. Add shallot and garlic and cook until shallot is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add fish sauce and sugar syrup; stir for 1 to 2 minutes.
  • Add shrimp to the saucepan and cook, turning them in the syrup, until shrimp turn pink and are well cooked, 3 to 4 minutes. Sprinkle chives over shrimp.
  • Nutrition

    229 cal.

    • Total Fat: 9g
    • Saturated Fat: 1g
    • Cholesterol: 173mg
    • Sodium: 2477mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 12g
    • Dietary Fiber: 0g
    • Total Sugars: 8g
    • Protein: 24g
    • Vitamin C: 5mg
    • Calcium: 77mg
    • Iron: 3mg
    • Potassium: 325mg