Saigon Coconut Prawn Curry

Introduction to Saigon Coconut Prawn Curry

Saigon Coconut Prawn Curry is a delightful fusion of flavor and aroma, hailing from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon. This curry blends the vibrant culinary heritage of Vietnam with influences from its colonial past, predominantly characterized by the rich and creamy textures borrowed from French cooking traditions. The city's close proximity to the sea means fresh seafood is a staple, with prawns being a local favorite. This dish thus represents a confluence of unique flavors and fresh ingredients, embodying the heart of Saigon's food scene.

As a part of Vietnamese cuisine, curries like this one carry a legacy of warmth and communal dining experiences. While traditional Vietnamese curries can be less spicy, they pack a punch of umami, often enhanced by the use of coconut milk, lemongrass, and fish sauce—key staples in Vietnamese kitchens. This recipe will walk you through crafting this iconic dish in your own home, bringing a slice of Saigon to your dining room.

Ingredients

• Prawns (500g, peeled and deveined)
• Coconut Oil (2 tablespoons)
• Onion (1 large, finely chopped)
• Garlic Cloves (3, minced)
• Ginger (1 tablespoon, grated)
• Lemongrass (1 stalk, finely chopped)
• Red Curry Paste (2 tablespoons)
• Coconut Milk (400ml)
• Fish Sauce (2 tablespoons)
• Lime Juice (from 1 lime)
• Brown Sugar (1 tablespoon)
• Cilantro (for garnish)
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• Jasmine Rice (to serve)

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the prawns; ensure they are thoroughly peeled and deveined. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Using a mortar and pestle, grind the lemongrass until it forms a paste-like consistency. This intensifies the flavor it will infuse into the curry.
3. Finely chop the onion and set aside. Mince the garlic cloves and grate the ginger, ready for quick access during cooking.
4. Measure out the coconut milk and set it aside. Have all the sauces and seasoning at arm’s reach for a smooth cooking process.

Cooking Instructions

Cooking this curry is a swift process, so it’s vital to have all ingredients prepped before you start. This ensures you maintain the cooking timer for each step correctly, resulting in the perfect blend of flavors.

1. In a large pan or wok, heat the Coconut Oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant.
2. Stir in the chopped lemongrass and the Red Curry Paste, mixing well to coat all the onions and garlic. Cook for about 2 minutes until the paste begins to separate from the oil, enhancing its aroma.
3. Pour in the coconut milk slowly, stirring continuously to blend. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer so the flavors meld together beautifully.
4. Add the prawns to the curry mixture. Cook them on a gentle heat, ensuring they are fully submerged in the sauce, which will keep them tender and prevent overcooking.
5. Season the curry with fish sauce, Lime Juice, and brown sugar, balancing the sweet and sour notes. Adjust the seasoning with Salt and Pepper to your preference.
6. Simmer until the prawns turn pink and are cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes. Do not overcook as they can become rubbery.
7. Once done, turn off the heat and garnish with chopped cilantro just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Saigon Coconut Prawn Curry hot, accompanied with steamed Jasmine Rice. The fluffy rice soaks up the creamy, aromatic curry, making each bite a burst of flavor. For an authentic Vietnamese experience, pair with a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sugar, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich curry.

How to Enjoy Your Meal

This dish is best enjoyed in a communal setting, celebrating the Vietnamese tradition of shared meals. Encourage diners to serve themselves from a central bowl of curry, allowing everyone to enjoy this flavorful creation. The mix of curry with the subtle fragrance of Jasmine Rice transports your taste buds straight to the vivacious vivariums of Saigon.

For an accompanying beverage, consider a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea. These drinks complement the creamy and rich texture of the curry while balancing the meal's spicy undertones.