Kampot Prawns

Kampot Prawns is a flavorful dish that originates from the coastal regions of Cambodia, particularly in the Kampot province, which is renowned for its world-famous Kampot peppers. This dish is a beautiful amalgamation of fresh seafood and the rich, aromatic flavors of locally grown ingredients. The combination of prawns and Kampot pepper creates a tantalizing dish that is loved both locally and internationally.

History of Kampot Prawns

The history of Kampot Prawns can be traced back to the Cambodian coastal communities that have long relied on the sea for their sustenance. Kampot, known for its fertile lands and proximity to the Gulf of Thailand, not only boasts delicious seafood but also the highly prized Kampot pepper. In fact, Kampot pepper holds a Geographical Indication status, much like Champagne in France, due to its unique flavor and aroma. This dish represents the harmony of land and sea, embodying centuries of culinary tradition.

Ingredients

• Prawns – 500 grams, peeled and deveined
• Kampot pepper – 2 teaspoons, freshly ground
• Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
• Fish sauce – 2 tablespoons
• Lime – 1, juiced
• Lemongrass – 1 stalk, finely chopped
• Coconut milk – 200 ml
• Shallots – 3, finely chopped
• Cilantro – For garnish
• Vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons
• Salt – to taste

Preparation Steps

Before diving into the cooking process, it's essential to prepare all ingredients. This preparation involves cleaning and deveining the prawns, chopping the lemongrass and shallots, and grinding the Kampot pepper to release its full aroma.

Step 1: Preparing the Prawns

1. Thoroughly rinse the prawns and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. In a bowl, marinate the prawns with fish sauce, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Preparing the Aromatics

1. Mince the garlic cloves and finely chop the shallots and lemongrass.
2. In a small bowl, mix the ground Kampot pepper with the chopped aromatics.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Sautéing the Aromatics

1. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add the mixed aromatics to the skillet and sauté until the shallots are translucent.

Step 2: Cooking the Prawns

1. Add the marinated prawns to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes until they turn pink.
2. Pour in the coconut milk and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt if necessary.
3. Sprinkle the ground Kampot pepper over the dish for an extra kick.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.
2. Serve hot with steamed rice and enjoy the fragrant harmony of flavors.

Enjoying Kampot Prawns

Kampot Prawns is best enjoyed freshly cooked, with the flavors of Kampot pepper and coconut melting into each other, creating a symphony of taste. Pair this dish with a bowl of steaming rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For an elevated dining experience, accompany it with a side of pickled vegetables or a green mango salad, which adds a refreshing tang to the meal. Don't forget a chilled beverage such as a young coconut juice to cleanse the palate and complement the spiciness of the Kampot pepper.

For those who want to experiment, try adding a twist of citrus zest to brighten up the dish even more. This recipe not only celebrates the pride of Kampot but also allows you to bring a taste of Cambodia into your home kitchen. Set your cooking timer and embark on a culinary journey to the shores of southeastern Asia with this rich and aromatic dish.