Spicy Lemongrass King Prawns

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Spicy Lemongrass King Prawns, a quick and delightful seafood dish that brings the taste of Asia to your table. This recipe combines fresh ingredients like lemongrass and tomatoes for a zesty sauce, perfectly complementing the juicy king prawns.

Ingredients

• 2 stalks lemongrass
• 2 spring onions
• 1 large clove garlic
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger
• Juice and zest of half a lime
• Handful of fresh coriander
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Fish sauce - a few drops
• 1 yellow pepper
• 8 large vine tomatoes
• 2 packs raw king prawns
• Steamed Jasmine rice, for serving

Instructions

1. In a food processor, combine the lemongrass, spring onions, garlic, ginger, lime juice and zest, fresh coriander, sugar, and fish sauce. Blend into a smooth paste.
2. In a large pot, stew down the yellow pepper and tomatoes until they are softened.
3. Add the blended paste to the pot and mix well. Cook for a few minutes until everything is heated through.
4. Stir in the raw king prawns and cook for approximately 7 minutes, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
5. Serve the prawns and sauce over steamed Jasmine rice, garnished with additional fresh coriander if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories per serving: Approximately 250 kcal (may vary based on specific ingredients used).

Cooking Tips and Tricks

When preparing Spicy Lemongrass King Prawns, the freshness of your ingredients is crucial for achieving that authentic Asian flavor. Start by selecting firm, vibrant king prawns; the fresher they are, the better your dish will taste. If you re unsure about the quality of the prawns, purchasing them from a reputable seafood market or a trusted grocery store can make a significant difference.

Using a food processor to create the lemongrass paste is not just a time-saver but also ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully. Make sure to chop the lemongrass and ginger into smaller pieces before adding them to the processor; this will help them blend more evenly. If you prefer a chunkier texture, try chopping the ingredients by hand for a rustic feel.

Don t shy away from adjusting the spice levels of your dish. If you love heat, consider adding fresh chilies or a pinch of chili flakes to the blended paste. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of garlic or skip the fish sauce. Remember, cooking is an art, and personalizing recipes to suit your taste is part of the process!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen king prawns for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen king prawns are a great option and can be just as delicious as fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking, and pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture.

What can I substitute for lemongrass?

If you can t find lemongrass, you can use lemon zest mixed with a bit of lime juice for a similar citrusy flavor. Alternatively, you might consider using a combination of lemon zest and ginger, though the taste will vary slightly.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, you can replace the king prawns with firm tofu or a medley of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through and tender.