If you’re craving something vibrant, delicious, and bursting with bold flavors, then this Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns Recipe is going to be your new go-to! Imagine succulent prawns sizzling in a fragrant garlicky sauce with just the right kick of chili, balanced by the perfect harmony of sweet, sour, and savory notes. This dish is quick to whip up, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or an impressive meal when friends come over. The Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns Recipe not only brings fantastic taste to your table but also fills your kitchen with the most irresistible aroma that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns Recipe shine, the list of ingredients is refreshingly straightforward but absolutely essential. Each component adds a unique layer of flavor or texture, ensuring every bite is packed with that delightful balance of heat, sweetness, and umami.
- 1 lb (450g) large prawns or shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star of the dish, offering tender, juicy seafood goodness that cooks in a flash.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Perfect for a high-heat stir-fry that keeps prawns beautifully seared without sticking.
- 4 garlic cloves (minced): This infusion of pungency and warmth is what gives the dish its unmistakable aromatic base.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated): Adds a subtle zesty freshness that perfectly complements the garlic’s punch.
- 1–2 red chilies (finely chopped): The heart of the heat in this recipe—adjust based on your preferred spice level.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings essential savory depth and saltiness to elevate the taste profile.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds a luscious, rich umami undertone that makes the sauce velvety and satisfying.
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar: Balances the spice with just a touch of sweetness for perfect harmony.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice: Injects a bright, tangy note to lift the flavors beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: A fragrant finishing touch that infuses a toasty, nutty aroma.
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional): For a fresh crunch and extra visual appeal when serving.
How to Make Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by whisking together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar or lime juice, and sesame oil in a small bowl. This flavorful sauce will be the magical coating that transforms your prawns into a sticky, glossy masterpiece. Setting it aside now means you’ll have everything ready once the prawns are perfectly seared.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or wok until shimmering. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and finely chopped red chilies. Stir-fry for 30 seconds to 1 minute until the mixture releases its signature fragrant aroma that instantly signals great food is on its way.
Step 3: Cook the Prawns
Lay the prawns in a single layer in the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes on one side until they turn an inviting pink. Flip the prawns and continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until just cooked through. This method ensures your prawns stay juicy and tender without any rubbery surprises.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Pour the pre-mixed sauce over the cooked prawns and gently toss to coat every piece evenly in that flavorful glaze. Let it simmer on the heat for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and cling to the prawns, creating that irresistible sticky finish.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle over sliced green onions and sesame seeds if you like a little crunch and color contrast. Then, serve your Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns Recipe hot for the best experience!
How to Serve Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds not only lifts the presentation but adds delightful texture and freshness that balance the saucy richness of the prawns. Feel free to toss in a handful of fresh coriander or a drizzle of extra sesame oil for even more aromatic layers.
Side Dishes
This dish shines best alongside steamed jasmine rice or fluffy noodles, which soak up every last bit of the lip-smacking sauce. Alternatively, pair it with stir-fried veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy to introduce vibrant color and satisfying crunch to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the prawns on a bed of fragrant coconut rice or inside crisp lettuce cups for fun, hands-on dining. For a casual vibe, present the Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns Recipe as part of a larger Asian-inspired spread with dipping sauces and fresh herbs for an interactive feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pop any leftover cooked prawns into an airtight container and refrigerate. They keep well for up to 2 days, making it easy to enjoy this flavorful dish again without the hassle of cooking from scratch.
Freezing
While fresh is best for optimal tenderness, you can freeze the prawns after cooking. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and consume within a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently to avoid toughening the seafood.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the prawns gently in a skillet over low to medium heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it may make them rubbery. Adding a splash of water or a dash of soy sauce while reheating can help maintain moisture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen prawns for this Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture, which can affect the sauce’s consistency and the prawns’ texture.
How do I adjust the spice level in the dish?
It’s simple—reduce or omit the red chilies for a milder flavor, or increase the amount and include chili seeds for extra heat. You can also balance the spice with a little more honey if desired.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce alternatives, this recipe works perfectly for gluten-free diets.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Adding bell peppers, snap peas, or baby corn during the aromatic sauté step adds freshness and crunch, making the dish more colorful and nutritious.
What should I serve with Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns?
Classic steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles are excellent choices. For a lighter option, try serving with steamed or sautéed greens to complement the bold flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns Recipe is a delightful celebration of fresh, big flavors that comes together quickly and easily, which is why it’s such a favorite in my kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or gathering loved ones around the table, this dish promises deliciousness that satisfies every time. Give it a try soon and enjoy the magic of those sweet, spicy, and garlicky prawns in every bite!
Print
Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and flavorful Asian-inspired recipe featuring large prawns stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and red chilies, tossed in a savory-sweet sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Perfect for a spicy seafood main course served with rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 lb (450g) large prawns or shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Cooking Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1–2 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust heat preference)
Garnish
- Sliced green onions (optional)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar (or lime juice), and sesame oil until well combined. Set aside.
- Heat aromatics: Warm the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and finely chopped red chilies. Stir-fry for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook prawns: Add the peeled and deveined prawns to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until the prawns turn pink and are cooked through, flipping carefully to ensure even cooking.
- Add sauce and simmer: Pour the prepared sauce over the prawns. Toss to coat all the prawns evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer for 1–2 minutes so the sauce slightly thickens and flavors meld.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the pan from heat. Garnish the prawns with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a milder version, use fewer chilies or remove their seeds to reduce heat.
- Add bell peppers or snap peas to the stir-fry for extra crunch and color.
- This dish cooks quickly, so prepare all ingredients in advance before starting to cook.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stirfrying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
