Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp)

If you’re craving a quick, spicy, and utterly delicious meal, this Easy Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) recipe is the perfect solution. Bursting with bold flavors of fresh garlic and fiery chilli, these prawns are cooked in minutes, making them ideal for weeknight dinners or whenever you want a dish that packs a punch without complicated prep. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just need a tasty dish to impress, this recipe will become your go-to for a flavorful twist on classic Asian-inspired cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Preparation: Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want great taste without the wait.
• Bold Flavor Harmony: Combines the garlicky aroma with fiery chilli for a mouthwatering balance of spice and savoriness.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh prawns, making it easy to pull together anytime.
• Versatility: Works well as a main dish, appetizer, or mixed into noodles and rice for extra excitement.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and minimal added fats, this dish is as nutritious as it is flavorful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) recipe plays a crucial role in delivering fresh taste, heat, and texture. These simple components come together to create a dish that’s as vibrant visually as it is palate-pleasing.

• Fresh Prawns (Shrimp): Choose peeled and deveined for convenience and tender, juicy results.
• Garlic Cloves: Finely minced garlic infuses the dish with its unmistakable pungent aroma and flavor.
• Red Chillies: Fresh or dried, they add the essential heat and a beautiful pop of color.
• Soy Sauce: Brings salty umami depth; opt for low-sodium if preferred.
• Oyster Sauce: Adds rich sweetness and complexity.
• Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle imparts a nutty finish that ties the whole dish together.
• Spring Onions: For freshness and a crisp bite as a garnish.
• Cooking Oil: Neutral oils like vegetable or canola work best for stir-frying at high heat.

Variations for Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp)

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to tailor the heat level, protein, or even the sauce to fit your taste and dietary needs.

• Protein Swap: Use chicken, tofu, or scallops for a different but equally tasty twist.
• Mild Version: Reduce or omit the chillies, and add a touch of honey for sweetness instead.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or baby corn for added crunch and color.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Add a splash of Sriracha or a pinch of chilli flakes for even more heat.

How to Make Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp)

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and deveining fresh prawns if they aren’t prepped yet. Mince the garlic finely and slice your chillies thinly to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor release.

Step 2: Heat the Pan and Oil

Use a large frying pan or wok and heat a couple of tablespoons of neutral cooking oil over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. This step helps sear the prawns quickly.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Chillies

Add the minced garlic and sliced chillies to the hot oil, stirring constantly to avoid burning, for roughly 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Prawns

Toss the prawns into the pan in a single layer and cook them for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, stirring occasionally for even cooking.

Step 5: Add Sauces and Toss

Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Quickly toss everything together so the prawns are coated in the glossy, flavorful sauce.

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

Remove from the heat and sprinkle chopped spring onions on top. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Pro Tips for Making Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp)

• Don’t Overcook Prawns: They cook quickly, so watch closely to avoid toughness.
• Freshness Matters: Use the freshest prawns you can find for the best flavor.
• Balance the Heat: Adjust chillies based on your spice tolerance, adding gradually.
• Keep Stirring: Stirring ensures every prawn is evenly coated and cooked perfectly.
• Prep Ahead: Chop garlic and chillies before you start cooking to keep things smooth and fast.

How to Serve Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp)

Garnishes

Finely chopped spring onions add a fresh, mild bite, while a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds brings an extra layer of texture and nuttiness.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice or fragrant coconut rice to balance the heat, or toss into stir-fried noodles for a complete meal that’s bursting with flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the prawns on a bed of wilted Asian greens or alongside crunchy cucumber salad to add freshness and cool contrast to the spicy profile.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze cooked prawns for up to one month wrapped tightly in freezer-safe bags; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat in a pan over low heat to avoid overcooking the prawns again or microwave in short bursts, stirring often to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?

Yes, frozen prawns work well; just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that can affect the sauce consistency.

How spicy is this Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) recipe?

The spice level is moderate and can be adjusted by the amount and type of chillies used, making it easy to customize for your preferred heat.

What can I substitute if I don’t have oyster sauce?

You can replace oyster sauce with hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a little brown sugar for a similar sweet-savory flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and ensuring other sauces are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, substitute prawns with firm tofu or mushrooms, and use vegan oyster sauce alternatives to keep that umami kick.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) recipe is a vibrant, quick, and incredibly satisfying dish that’s bound to become a household favorite. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it approachable for cooks of all skill levels. So, gather your prawns and spice it up—this dish will bring warmth and bold flavor to your dinner table in no time!

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