Tôm Rim (Vietnamese Braised Shrimp)

For the Caramel Sauce: In a 2-quart saucepan, combine sugar and water and set over medium-high heat. Cook, swirling the pan to ensure even caramelization, until the mixture bubbles vigorously and becomes slightly golden, about 5 minutes. Continue cooking until light smoke comes off the pan and color changes from light to dark amber very quickly, about 2 minutes longer. Remove pan from heat and stir in coconut water. If the mixture looks like it’s seizing, return pan to low heat and stir gently until sugar is fully dissolved. Transfer to a heatproof bowl and set aside. Serious Eats / Vy Tran Meanwhile, for the Braise: In a large mixing bowl, combine shrimp, half of shallot, half of garlic, sugar, salt, chiles, and pepper, and marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Serious Eats / Vy Tran Wipe out pan and return to medium-high heat. Heat oil until shimmering, then add remaining shallot and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant, 30 to 45 seconds. Add caramel sauce and fish sauce and let simmer until sauce has reduced by half, 7 to 8 minutes. Serious Eats /Vy Tran Add shrimp and marinade ingredients and toss to coat. Continue cooking on medium-high heat until shrimp turn opaque and are cooked through, about 7 minutes. Remove from heat, season with more freshly ground black pepper, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving with rice and vegetables. Serious Eats / Vy Tran