Chilli Garlic Prawns
Juicy prawns fried to a perfect crisp and tossed in a fiery, garlicky sauce with crunchy bell peppers and onions. This popular Indo-Chinese appetizer is a flavor explosion and comes together in just 30 minutes!
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Marinate the Prawns
- b.Ensure the prawns are completely dry by patting them with a paper towel. This is key for a crispy coating.
- c.In a mixing bowl, combine the prawns, cornflour, all-purpose flour, ginger-garlic paste, 0.5 tsp salt, and 0.5 tsp black pepper.
- d.Add the egg white and mix thoroughly until each prawn is evenly coated in a light batter.
- e.Let the prawns marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Fry the Prawns
- b.Heat the oil in a wok or a wide pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
- c.Carefully place the marinated prawns in the hot oil one by one, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in 2-3 batches if necessary.
- d.Shallow fry for 3-4 minutes, turning once, until they are golden brown, crispy, and fully cooked. Overcooking will make them rubbery.
- e.Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried prawns and place them on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare the Stir-Fry Base
- b.Carefully pour out the excess oil from the wok, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons.
- c.Place the wok back on high heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped garlic, ginger, and slit green chillies. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- d.Add the spring onion whites, onion cubes, and capsicum cubes. Stir-fry on high heat for 2-3 minutes. The vegetables should be slightly tender but still retain a distinct crunch.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Finish
- b.Reduce the heat to medium. Add the soy sauce, red chilli sauce, white vinegar, sugar, and the remaining 0.25 tsp each of salt and black pepper. Stir well to combine into a sauce.
- c.Allow the sauce to bubble for about 30 seconds.
- d.Immediately add the fried prawns back into the wok.
- e.Toss everything together quickly and gently for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the prawns are evenly coated with the glossy sauce.
- f.Turn off the heat, garnish with chopped spring onion greens, and serve immediately for the best texture.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the crispiest prawns, ensure they are patted completely dry before marinating. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
- 2Do not overcook the prawns. They cook very quickly, and overcooking will result in a tough, rubbery texture.
- 3Cook the vegetables on high heat for a short time to maintain their crunch and vibrant color, which is characteristic of Indo-Chinese cooking.
- 4If using frozen prawns, thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water. Squeeze out any excess water before marinating.
- 5For a saucier, gravy-style version, mix 1 tbsp of cornflour with 1/2 cup of cold water to make a slurry. Add it to the wok after the sauces and bring to a boil until it thickens, then add the prawns.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
This recipe works wonderfully with boneless chicken cubes, fish fillets, or paneer. Adjust frying times accordingly.
Vegetarian VersionVegetarian Version
Replace prawns with cauliflower florets (gobi), mushrooms, or firm tofu for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
Sauce VariationSauce Variation
Add 1 tablespoon of Schezwan sauce or Sriracha along with the red chilli sauce for an extra layer of heat and complex flavor.
Healthier OptionHealthier Option
Instead of shallow frying, coat the marinated prawns with a light spray of oil and air-fry at 200°C (400°F) for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Prawns are packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes and hormones, and supporting muscle mass.
Rich in Selenium
This dish provides a significant amount of selenium from prawns, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and supports thyroid function.
Immunity-Boosting Properties
Garlic, a key ingredient, contains compounds like allicin, which are known for their immune-boosting, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.
Contains Essential Vitamins
The capsicum (bell pepper) in the recipe is a great source of Vitamin C and Vitamin A, which are crucial for immune function, skin health, and vision.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of Chilli Garlic Prawns contains approximately 380-450 calories. The exact number can vary based on the amount of oil absorbed during frying and the specific sauces used.