Introduction
Welcome to Love With Recipes, your ultimate destination for culinary inspiration and delectable dishes. Today, we delve into a vibrant, fiery, and irresistibly flavorful Asian-inspired masterpiece: Hot & Spicy Braised Prawns. This dish is a celebration of bold flavors, quick preparation, and versatile ingredients, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or any occasion that calls for an explosion of taste. The recipe combines succulent prawns with a tantalizing sauce infused with garlic, ginger, soy, chili oil, and a splash of sherry wine, resulting in a dish that is simultaneously spicy, savory, and aromatic. Perfectly suited for those who love a bit of heat, this dish can be easily adapted for different protein preferences, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy it. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking for a fast, flavorful meal, this recipe promises to impress with its simplicity and punchy flavors. As featured on Love With Recipes, this dish exemplifies how quick, uncomplicated cooking can yield restaurant-quality results, making it a staple in any culinary repertoire.
Time
The total preparation and cooking time for this dish is approximately 10 minutes. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights or when you need a quick yet satisfying meal. The process involves minimal steps, with most of the time spent on prepping the ingredients and cooking rapidly over high heat. From start to finish, expect to spend around 15 minutes including ingredient assembly and garnishing. This swift turnaround ensures you can enjoy a freshly made, flavorful dish with minimal effort.
Needed Equipment
- Wok or large frying pan – essential for high-heat stir-frying and ensuring even cooking of the prawns.
- Mixing bowls – for preparing and marinating ingredients if desired.
- Measuring spoons and cups – precise measurement of sauces, oils, and liquids for perfect flavor balance.
- Garlic press or mincing knife – to finely mince garlic for maximum flavor extraction.
- Grater or microplane – for fresh ginger.
- Cooking spatula or wooden spoon – to stir and toss ingredients during cooking.
- Serving platter or dish – for presenting the finished prawns attractively.
- Optional: Tongs – for handling prawns during cooking or plating.
Tags
Chinese cuisine, Asian flavors, Spicy dish, Quick recipe, Stir fry, Seafood, Easy dinner, Weeknight meal, Zesty, Aromatic, Soy sauce, Chili oil
Serving Size
Serves approximately 4 people as a main dish, with each serving providing around 1 cup of prawns along with sauce. This portion size makes it suitable for a family meal or a small gathering. For larger groups, easily double or triple the ingredients while maintaining the cooking method.
Difficulty Level
Intermediate — this recipe requires basic stir-frying skills and familiarity with handling seafood. The key is high heat and quick cooking to preserve the prawns’ tenderness. If you’re new to Asian stir-fry techniques, practice handling ingredients efficiently and managing heat to avoid overcooking.
Allergen Information
| Allergen | Presence | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp | Yes | Primary ingredient; substitute with chicken or beef if allergic or avoiding shellfish. |
| Soy | Yes | Contains soy sauce; use gluten-free soy or coconut aminos for gluten sensitivities. |
| Ginger | No | Natural ingredient; generally safe but check for allergies. |
| Garlic | No | Natural ingredient; avoid if allergic. |
| Chili Oil | No | Contains chili peppers; adjust quantity for spice sensitivity. |
Dietary Preference
Gluten-Free: Yes, if gluten-free soy or coconut aminos are used.
Vegan: Not suitable unless substituted with plant-based proteins and vegan-friendly sauces.
Keto: Compatible, with attention to soy sauce and chili oil content.
Paleo: Suitable if using paleo-approved oils and soy substitutes.
Course
Main Course – a flavorful seafood entrée perfect for pairing with rice or noodles.
Cuisine
Chinese/Asian – inspired by traditional Chinese stir-fry techniques with a modern spicy twist.
Ingredients
Ingredient List in Detail
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sherry wine | 1 tablespoon | Adds depth and subtle sweetness to the sauce. |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced finely to maximize flavor. |
| Fresh ginger | 2 teaspoons | Grated for aromatic impact. |
| Green onions | 3 stalks | Sliced thinly for garnish and flavor. |
| Soy sauce | 3 tablespoons | Provides salty umami; opt for low-sodium if preferred. |
| Chili oil | 3 tablespoons | Adjust according to spice tolerance. |
| Prawns | 1½ pounds | Peeled and deveined for ease of eating and presentation. |
| Cooking oil | As needed | Use neutral oils like vegetable or canola for stir-frying. |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Aromatics and Oils
Begin by heating your wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the pan reaches the optimal temperature, add a tablespoon of cooking oil—vegetable oil, canola, or peanut oil work well due to their high smoke points. Allow the oil to heat up until it shimmers slightly, indicating readiness for stir-frying. Now, add the minced garlic and grated ginger into the hot oil. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to stir continuously, ensuring that the garlic and ginger do not burn. Stir-fry for about 10 seconds—just enough for the fragrant oils to be released. The aroma of garlic and ginger should fill your kitchen, signaling that the base flavors are developing. This step is crucial because it forms the aromatic foundation of the dish, infusing the entire sauce with depth and warmth.
Step 2: Incorporating Liquids and Flavorings
Next, carefully pour in the sherry wine, soy sauce, and chili oil. Use a spatula to stir vigorously, blending all the liquids thoroughly. This mixture should immediately start to bubble and steam, indicating it is hot enough to cook the prawns rapidly. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 90 seconds—this helps the flavors meld and intensify. During this time, the alcohol in the sherry will evaporate, leaving behind a subtle sweetness and complexity. The soy sauce will deepen the savory umami profile, while the chili oil adds heat and richness. Stirring continuously ensures an even distribution of flavors and prevents sticking or burning at the bottom of the pan.
Step 3: Cooking the Prawns
Carefully add the peeled and deveined prawns into the hot sauce. Be gentle to avoid splattering hot liquids. Spread the prawns out evenly across the pan’s surface to ensure uniform cooking. Keep the heat elevated to high, allowing the prawns to braise in the sauce. Cook for approximately 60 to 90 seconds, turning the prawns once or twice with tongs or a spatula to promote even cooking. The prawns will turn a bright pink and become opaque, indicating they are perfectly cooked. Overcooking prawns can lead to a rubbery texture, so it’s essential to watch them closely and remove from heat promptly once done. Aim for tender, juicy prawns that are just cooked through, retaining their succulence and flavor.
Step 4: Adding the Green Onions and Final Touches
Finally, toss in the sliced green onions and stir immediately. This step introduces a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the spiciness and richness of the sauce. Let the green onions wilt slightly, cooking for about 30 seconds, which also helps release their aromatic oils. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary—adding more soy or chili oil according to your spice preference. Serve immediately to enjoy the prawns at their peak flavor and texture.
Preparation Tips
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and green onions provide vibrant flavor and aroma. Organic or high-quality ingredients can make a significant difference.
- Peel and devein prawns properly: For cleaner presentation and better texture, ensure prawns are peeled and deveined completely. Rinse and pat dry before cooking.
- Adjust spice levels: Control the heat by varying the amount of chili oil. For milder dishes, reduce or omit chili oil altogether.
- High heat cooking: Stir-frying at high heat ensures quick cooking and preserves the prawns’ tenderness while developing a flavorful sear.
- Prepare ingredients in advance: Mince garlic, grate ginger, and slice green onions beforehand to streamline the cooking process.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 234.3 kcal | – |
| Fat | 5.8 g | 9% |
| Saturated Fat | 0.8 g | 4% |
| Cholesterol | 285.8 mg | 95% |
| Sodium | 1290 mg | 54% |
| Carbohydrates | 7.8 g | 3% |
| Fiber | 1.1 g | 4% |
| Sugar | 0.9 g | – |
| Protein | 31.8 g | 64% |
Tips and Tricks
- Maintain high heat: Ensures quick cooking and prevents prawns from becoming rubbery.
- Use fresh seafood: Fresh prawns yield better texture and flavor compared to frozen or pre-cooked prawns.
- Control spice levels: Experiment with chili oil and fresh chilies to tailor the heat to your preference.
- Enhance flavor: Add a splash of rice vinegar or a dash of sesame oil at the end for extra depth.
- Presentation: Serve on a hot plate with garnishes like cilantro or additional sliced green onions for presentation flair.
Add-ons
- Vegetables: Add colorful bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy for a more substantial dish.
- Protein variations: Substitute prawns with chicken, beef strips, or tofu for dietary flexibility.
- Sauces: Drizzle with oyster sauce or add a teaspoon of hoisin for a sweeter profile.
- Spice enhancements: Incorporate fresh chopped chilies or chili flakes for extra heat.
Side Dishes
- Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
- Stir-fried vegetables like bok choy or broccoli
- Steamed or fried rice noodles
- Asian-style pickled vegetables or kimchi for contrast
- Crusty bread for dipping the flavorful sauce
Improvements
- Incorporate a splash of fish sauce or oyster sauce for umami richness.
- Add a touch of honey or brown sugar to balance the heat with subtle sweetness.
- Include a dash of sesame oil at the end for a nutty aroma.
- Use roasted or toasted sesame seeds as a garnish for added crunch and flavor.
- Experiment with different chili oils or powders for varied spice profiles.
Save and Store
This dish is best enjoyed immediately for optimal freshness and texture. However, if you need to store leftovers, transfer cooled prawns and sauce into an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to 1 day. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can overcook the prawns and diminish their tenderness. For future use, consider prepping extra prawns and sauces separately to maintain quality upon reheating.
FAQ
Can I use frozen prawns?
Yes, thaw frozen prawns thoroughly before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better searing and prevents steaming.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely. Increase the chili oil quantity, add fresh chopped chilies, or sprinkle chili flakes during cooking for more heat.
Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, provided you use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos. Double-check all ingredients for gluten content.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
This dish is best served immediately. However, you can prepare the sauce and prawns separately and combine during reheating to preserve freshness and texture.
What are good substitutes for shrimp if I have allergies?
Chicken or beef strips can be used as a substitute. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as they may require longer to cook through.
Conclusion
In summary, the Hot & Spicy Braised Prawns recipe from Love With Recipes embodies the perfect harmony of speed, flavor, and versatility. Its bold Asian-inspired flavors, combined with the succulent texture of prawns, make it an irresistible addition to any meal plan. Whether serving as a standalone main dish or as part of a larger Asian feast, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver satisfaction with minimal effort. By mastering this dish, you’ll have a go-to recipe that impresses friends and family alike, and invites endless variations to suit your taste preferences. Embrace the vibrant flavors, experiment with add-ons, and enjoy the culinary journey that this simple yet sophisticated dish offers.
References
- “The Wok: Recipes and Techniques,” by J. Chen, 2018.
- “Asian Flavors: Simple Recipes for Delicious Meals,” by L. Nguyen, 2020.