Name: Spicy Chilli Garlic Prawns - Easy Asian Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 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 ginger, grated or finely chopped; 1 tsp chilli flakes; 1/2 cup water; 3 tbsp Sriracha; 2 tsp light 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). That’s the phrase that conjures up images of perfectly cooked, succulent prawns bursting with vibrant, spicy, and savory flavors. If you’re anything like me, the mere mention of Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) sends your taste buds into overdrive. This dish is a perennial favorite for so many reasons: it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, yet it feels sophisticated enough for guests. What truly sets this recipe apart is the harmonious dance of ingredients – the fiery kick of chili, the pungent depth of garlic, the subtle sweetness, and the umami-rich soy sauce, all coating plump, juicy prawns. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that is simply irresistible, leaving you craving just one more bite.

Ingredients:

500g / 1 lb prawns / shrimp, raw, peeled and deveined (Note 1)
1 1/2 tbsp vegetable oil (or canola)
1 tsp sesame oil, toasted (Note 2)
3 garlic cloves, very finely minced
2 tsp gin extractger, grated or finely chopped (can be omitted)
1 tsp chilli flakes* (Note 3)
1/2 cup (125 ml) water
3 tbsp Sriracha (Note 4)
2 tsp soy sauce, light or all purpose (Note 5)
3 tbsp brown sugar (sub with white)
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Green onions, finely sliced, for garnish
Red chillies, finely sliced or chopped, for garnish

Preparing the Prawns and Sauce

Step 1: Get Your Prawns Ready

The first step to creating these delicious Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns is to ensure your prawns are properly prepared. If you’ve bought them frozen, make sure they’re fully thawed. Then, rinse them under cold running water and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This drying step is crucial because it helps to ensure that the prawns will sear nicely and not just steam in the pan, giving you a better texture and flavour. Ensure all the shells are removed and the dark vein running along the back of the prawn (the deveining) is also taken out. This vein can sometimes impart a slightly gritty texture and a less pleasant flavour, so its removal is a worthwhile step.

Step 2: Building the Flavour Base

Now, let’s get our pan hot and ready. Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and let it heat up until it shimmers slightly – you don’t want it smoking. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the finely minced garlic and the grated or finely gin extractpped ginger. Stir these constantly for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the dish. This initial sautéing releases the aromatic oils fromgin extracte garlic and ginger, forming a wonderful flavour foundation for our sauce.

Step 3: Introducing the Heat and Liquids

Next, it’s time to add the chilli flakes to the pan with gin extract fragrant garlic and ginger. Stir them in for about 15 seconds, allowing their flavour to bloom in the hot oil. Then, it’s time to create the sauce itself. Pour in the 1/2 cup of water. Immediately after, add the Sriracha, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir everything together well to ensure the sugar dissolves completely. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. This simmering process will allow the flavours to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken. The Sriracha provides a delightful spicy kick, the soy sauce adds depth and saltiness, and the brown sugar balances the heat and creates a lovely sticky glaze.

Step 4: Cooking the Prawns to Perfection

Once the sauce is simmering nicely, it’s time to introduce the star of the show: the prawns. Add the prepared prawns to the skillet in a single layer if possible. This helps them cook evenly. Gently stir and toss the prawns in the sauce, ensuring each one is coated. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the prawns turn opaque and pink. They cook very quickly, so it’s important not to overcook them, as they can become tough and rubbery. You’ll notice the sauce will start to thicken further and coat the prawns beautifully. If the sauce seems too thick at any point, you can add another tablespoon or two of water.

Step 5: Finishing Touches and Serving

As the prawns finish cooking, stir in the toasted sesame oil. This adds a wonderful nutty aroma and a final layer of flavour that is characteristic of many Asian dishes. Give it a quick stir to distribute it evenly. The sauce should be glossy and cling to the prawns. Now, remove the skillet from the heat. It’s time to plate these beauties! Transfer the Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns to a serving dish. For a final flourish and a burst of fresh flavour and colour, generously sprinkle the prawns with toasted sesame seeds, finely sliced green onions, and finely sliced red chillies. These garnishes not only make the dish look appealing but also add extra texture and a fresh, vibrant counterpoint to the rich, spicy sauce. Serve immediately with your favourite rice or noodles.

Conclusion:

And there you have it – your guide to creating mouthwatering Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp)! This recipe is a true winner, offering a delightful balance of spicy chilli, aromatic garlic, and succulent prawns that are sure to impress. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and speed, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer.

I love serving Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) over fluffy steamed jasmine rice to soak up all that incredible sauce. You can also enjoy them with noodles, in tacos, or simply on their own as a delightful starter. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations! If you’re not a fan of heat, reduce the amount of chilli. For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or a squeeze of lime juice at the end. The possibilities are endless! So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and I’m confident you’ll fall in love with this vibrant dish. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Frequently Asked Questions about Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp):

Q: Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re using frozen prawns, make sure to thaw them completely before starting. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure they get a good sear and the sauce adheres well.

Q: What kind of chilli should I use?

For this Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) recipe, you can use fresh red chillies like bird’s eye chillies for a good kick, or even dried chilli flakes if fresh ones aren’t available. Adjust the quantity based on your preferred level of spice.