Name: Spicy Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 500g prawns, raw, peeled and deveined; 1 1/2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 tsp toasted sesame oil; 3 garlic cloves, very finely minced; 2 tsp grated ginger; 1 tsp chilli flakes; 1/2 cup water; 3 tbsp Sriracha; 2 tsp soy sauce; 3 tbsp brown sugar; Sesame seeds, for garnish; Green onions, finely sliced, for garnish; Red chillies, finely sliced or chopped, for garnish

Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) are more than just a meal; they’re an explosion of vibrant flavors and irresistible textures that have captured the hearts (and taste buds!) of food lovers everywhere. What is it about this dish that makes us crave it so intensely? It’s that perfect dance between the sweet, succulent prawns and the fiery kick of chili, all brought together by the aromatic punch of garlic. This isn’t just another stir-fry; it’s a symphony of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet notes that sing on your palate. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook looking for a quick yet impressive weeknight dinner or a begin extractner eager to dive into the exciting world of Asian cuisine, these Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) will undoubtedly become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Get ready to be amazed by how simple ingredients can transform into something truly extraordinary.

Ingredients:

500g / 1 lb prawns / shrimp, raw, peeled and deveined
1 1/2 tbsp vegetable oil (or canola oil)
1 tsp toasted sesame oil
3 garlic cloves, very finely minced
2 tsp grated or finely chopped gin extractger (optional)
1 tsp chilli flakes
1/2 cup (125 ml) water
3 tbsp Sriracha
2 tsp soy sauce (light or all-purpose)
3 tbsp brown sugar (or white sugar)
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Green onions, finely sliced, for garnish
Red chillies, finely sliced or chopped, for garnish

Preparing Your Prawns and Aromatics

Step 1: Prepare the Prawns

Start by ensuring your prawns are properly prepped. If you bought them frozen, make sure they are completely thawed. Peel and devein them if they aren’t already. A quick rinse under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels is essential. This step might seem small, but it’s crucial for achieving a good sear and preventing them from steaming rather than frying in the pan. Dry prawns will help them develop a nice texture. If you notice any lingering shell fragments, now is the time to remove them.

Step 2: Mince Garlic anGin Extractrate Ginger

Next, focus on your aromatics. Take your 3 garlic cloves and mince them as finely as possible. The smaller the pieces, the more evenly the garlic flavor will distribute through the sauce. You can use a garlic press if you prefer, but mincing with a knife offers more control over the texture. gin extractyou’re using ginger, grate it finely or cgin extract it very finely. The ginger adds a lovely warmth and a slight zest that complements the chili angin extractarlic beautifully. Remember, ginger is optional, so skip this if you’re not a fan or don’t have any on hand.

Creating the Delicious Sauce

Step 3: Combine Sauce Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the water, Sriracha, soy sauce, and brown sugar. This is where the magic happens, creating the sweet, spicy, and savory base for our Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns. Ensure the brown sugar is well incorporated, and you might need to give it a good whisk to dissolve any clumps. Taste this mixture and adjust the sweetness or spiciness to your liking. If you prefer it spicier, add a touch more Sriracha or chilli flakes later. If you like it sweeter, add a little more sugar.

Cooking the Prawns

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics and Chilli

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmgin extractng, add the minced garlic and grated ginger (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Burnt garlic can turn bitter, so keep a close eye on it. Immediately add the chilli flakes and stir them into the fragrant oil for another 15-20 seconds. This blooming process intensifies the chilli flavor and aroma.

Step 5: Cook the Prawns and Add Sauce

Add the prepared prawns to the hot skillet in a single layer if possible. This helps them cook evenly and get a nice sear. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked prawns can become tough and rubbery, so be vigilant. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the prawns in batches. Once the prawns are almost cooked through, pour the prepared sauce mixture over them. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it bubble and thicken slightly, coating the prawns. This usually takes another 1-2 minutes. Stir in the toasted sesame oil during the last 30 seconds of cooking. The sesame oil adds a wonderful nutty aroma and flavor.

Finishing and Serving

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency and the prawns are perfectly cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns to a serving dish. Garnish generously with fresh, finely sliced green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and a few slices of fresh red chillies for an extra pop of color and a hint of freshness. These prawns are fantastic served immediately with steamed rice, noodles, or even as an appetizer. The combination of tender prawns, a glossy, flavorful sauce, and the fresh garnishes makes this dish a real crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the delightful balance of heat, sweetness, and umami!

Conclusion:

We’ve now reached the delicious conclusion of making your own Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp)! This recipe is incredibly rewarding, offering a burst of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that are sure to impress. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the complexity of the taste, making it an ideal dish for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

For serving suggestions, consider pairing your Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) with fluffy steamed jasmine rice to soak up all that incredible sauce. A side of crisp stir-fried bok choy or tender green beans also makes a wonderful complement. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving them with noodles or even as a vibrant topping for tacos.

Don’t be afraid to explore variations! You can adjust the chili heat by adding more or less of the red chili flakes, or even incorporating fresh chilies for a different kind of spice. For an extra layer of umami, a splash of fish sauce or a touch of oyster sauce can be added. For those who enjoy a citrusy note, a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving is a fantastic addition.

We hope you enjoy making and devouring these Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) as much as we do! It’s a recipe that’s truly hard to mess up and always delivers fantastic results. Happy cooking!

Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) FAQs

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Absolutely! To increase the heat of your Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp), you can add more red chili flakes. For a fresh, vibrant heat, finely mince one or two fresh red chilies (like bird’s eye chilies) and sauté them with the garlic. Remember to start with a small amount and add more to your preference.

What kind of prawns (shrimp) should I use?

For this Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) recipe, medium to large prawns (shrimp) work best. Whether you use fresh or frozen, ensure they are peeled and deveined. If using frozen, thaw them completely before cooking according to the recipe instructions. The size will affect cooking time slightly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.