The term references a dish often found on Chinese restaurant menus. It typically describes shrimp prepared with a specific sauce, often characterized by its color, which may be achieved through the use of tomato products, chili, or other ingredients. The ‘coral’ element alludes to the reddish-orange hue reminiscent of coral reefs, a visual cue that indicates the nature of the sauce.
Understanding the terminology is beneficial for diners seeking specific flavor profiles. The presence of this description on a menu suggests that the dish will likely have a somewhat sweet and savory profile, potentially with a mild level of spice depending on the establishment’s interpretation. Historically, Chinese-American cuisine has adapted dishes to suit local tastes, making precise definitions challenging and subject to regional variations.
