Singapore Chili Prawns is a vibrant and flavorful dish that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and tangy elements. Succulent prawns are sautéed with aromatic garlic, ginger, and chilies, then enveloped in a rich tomato and sweet chili sauce. The addition of a gently stirred egg adds a delightful silkiness to the sauce, making it irresistibly luscious. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, with its bright red sauce contrasting beautifully against the pink prawns. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress, whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests. Serve it over steamed rice or with crusty bread to soak up every drop of the delectable sauce.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon peanut oil
- 1 pound (450g) large prawns, shelled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon garlic, chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup shallots, chopped
- 2 bird’s eye chilies or red jalapeños, sliced
- 1/2 cup water
- 4 tablespoons tomato sauce
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- Juice of half a lime
- 2 teaspoons palm sugar or regular sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
Directions:
- Heat the peanut oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped garlic, grated ginger, chopped shallots, and sliced chilies. Sauté until fragrant, about one minute.
- Add the prawns to the pan and sauté for one minute on each side until they start to turn pink.
- In a bowl, mix together the water, tomato sauce, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, sugar, and cornstarch until well combined.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the pan with the prawns. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Slowly drizzle the beaten egg into the pan while stirring continuously to create egg ribbons. Cook for an additional minute until the egg is set.
- Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes Kcal: Approximately 250 kcal per serving Servings: 4
The Cultural Significance of Singapore Chili Prawns
Singaporean cuisine is a melting pot of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan influences. Singapore Chili Prawns exemplifies this multicultural culinary heritage. The dish draws inspiration from Chinese stir-frying techniques and Malay sambal sauces, showcasing the country’s diverse food culture.
Seafood plays a prominent role in Singapore’s food scene due to its coastal geography and rich maritime history. Chili crab considered Singapore’s national dish has been enjoyed for decades, with numerous variations emerging over time. Singapore Chili Prawns is one such adaptation that caters to modern home cooks seeking to recreate authentic flavors without the hassle of preparing whole crabs. This version preserves the dish’s traditional essence while offering a more convenient and versatile preparation.
Why Singapore Chili Prawns Is a Must-Try Dish
- Bursting with Flavor: The sauce’s unique combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy elements delivers an unforgettable taste experience. Each bite is packed with savory umami notes and a gentle heat that lingers on the palate.
- Quick and Easy to Prepare: Compared to Singapore Chili Crab, which involves cleaning and breaking down whole crabs, this prawn variation is faster and easier to cook. You can prepare it in about 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Serving Options: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, mantou (Chinese steamed buns), or crusty bread. The rich sauce is perfect for dipping, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
- Customizable Heat Levels: You can easily adjust the spice level by using more or fewer chilies. For a milder version, opt for larger, less spicy chili varieties like red jalapeños. If you enjoy fiery heat, bird’s eye chilies will add an extra kick.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Singapore Chili Prawns
- Choose Fresh, High-Quality Prawns: The freshness of the seafood is crucial for this dish. Look for plump, firm prawns with a mild sea scent. You can use either shelled or whole prawns, but leaving the shells on during cooking enhances the flavor.
- Balance the Sauce: The magic of this dish lies in the sauce’s harmony between sweet, tangy, and spicy. Taste as you go and adjust the sugar, lime juice, or chili levels to suit your preference.
- Don’t Overcook the Prawns: Prawns cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Sear them briefly on each side until they turn pink and opaque, then finish cooking them gently in the sauce.
- Create Silky Egg Ribbons: When adding the beaten egg, stir slowly in a circular motion to create delicate, silky ribbons. This step gives the sauce a rich, velvety texture that enhances the overall dish.
Variations and Substitutions
- Protein Swaps: While prawns are the star of this dish, you can experiment with other seafood like scallops, squid, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Make It Healthier: Reduce the sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey for a healthier option. You can also use light soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce to cut down on sodium.
- Spice Control: Customize the heat level by choosing milder chilies or omitting them altogether if you prefer a gentler dish. Adding a splash of coconut milk can also mellow out the spice while introducing a creamy texture.
- Add More Veggies: Boost the nutritional value by adding bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy. Stir-fry these vegetables along with the aromatic base to enhance the dish’s texture and color.
Serving Suggestions
Singapore Chili Prawns is best enjoyed immediately after cooking while the prawns are tender, and the sauce is hot and fragrant. Serve the dish with:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The neutral flavor of the rice balances the bold, spicy sauce.
- Mantou (Steamed Buns): These soft, pillowy buns are perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
- Crusty Bread: A hearty, rustic bread works well for mopping up every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
- Side Vegetables: Light, steamed greens like Chinese broccoli or stir-fried bok choy make a refreshing accompaniment.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, warm the prawns gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if necessary. Avoid microwaving, as this can cause the prawns to become rubbery.
Conclusion:
Singapore Chili Prawns is a vibrant and versatile dish that brings the bold flavors of Singaporean cuisine to your kitchen. With its perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and tanginess, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish to impress guests, Singapore Chili Prawns is an excellent choice.
By following a few simple techniques, you can recreate this iconic Singaporean favorite at home with ease. Don’t be afraid to customize the ingredients to suit your preferences, and savor the taste of this delightful seafood dish. Embrace the culinary diversity of Singapore, and let the flavors of this beloved dish transport you to the bustling hawker centers and vibrant food markets of this extraordinary city-state.
