Stir Fry Shrimp (I)

1/2 lb. medium shrimp, shelled, deveined, and cut in half or butterflied1/4 cup water4 tbsp. ketchup1 1/2 tsp. sugarDash of pepper2 tbsp. vegetable or peanut oil1/2 tsp. salt2 garlic cloves, crushed (use a knife handle or the flat part of the blade)1 1/2 tsp. cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp. water

Blanch the shrimp in boiling water for 2 minutes, drain and set aside. Combine 1/4 cup water, ketchup, sugar and pepper in a bowl, and also set aside. Heat the oil in your pan over high heat, adding salt and garlic. Just before the oil begins to smoke, add the liquid mixture. Bring to a boil and add the cornstarch mixture. Stir to combine, then toss in the shrimp just to coat them in the sauce. With rice, this serves 2 to 4.