Saigon Spicy Prawns
Introduction
Saigon Spicy Prawns is an iconic dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Ho Chi Minh City straight to your table. Known for its spicy and aromatic profile, this dish reflects the culinary fusion of Vietnamese herbs and spices with the fresh, robust flavor of prawns. This dish is not just about the taste; it is a celebration of Vietnam's rich culinary heritage, where street food cultures meet gourmet innovations.
The origins of Saigon Spicy Prawns can be traced back to the bustling markets of Saigon, where street vendors would combine locally available ingredients to create a meal that was both satisfying and quick to prepare. Over time, this simple street food has evolved into a popular dish served in restaurants around the world, loved for its sharp, tangy, and spicy flavors.
Ingredients
- Prawns - 500g, peeled and deveined
- Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
- Chili paste - 2 tablespoons
- Fish sauce - 3 tablespoons
- Lime - 1, juiced
- Sugar - 2 teaspoons
- Black pepper - 1 teaspoon
- Cilantro - a handful, chopped
- Peanut oil - 2 tablespoons
- Spring onions - 2, finely chopped
Preparation
Start by preparing your prawns: ensure they are thoroughly peeled and deveined to remove the digestive tract. This is crucial for achieving a clean taste. Next, rinse the prawns under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Dry prawns will help you achieve a perfect sear later on.
In a mixing bowl, combine the chili paste, fish sauce, and lime juice. Stir in the sugar and whisk until it's fully dissolved. This will be your marinade, a blend of spicy, salty, and sweet that forms the heart of this dish's flavor profile.
Immerse your prawns in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 20 minutes in the refrigerator. This gives the flavors time to penetrate the prawns, enhancing each bite.
Cooking Process
- Heat the peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant.
- Add the marinated prawns to the skillet. Cook them undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until one side is opaque and lightly seared.
- Turn the prawns and pour the remaining marinade into the pan. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the prawns are cooked through and have absorbed most of the marinade, approximately another 3 minutes. You can use a cooking timer to keep track of time.
- Season the dish with a sprinkle of black pepper for added depth and a finishing touch.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with chopped cilantro and spring onions.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Saigon Spicy Prawns immediately, to enjoy the vibrancy of its flavors at their peak. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, which provides a neutral, fluffy base that complements the robust flavors of the prawns. Alternatively, try serving it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side salad with a lime vinaigrette can add a refreshing counterpoint to the spiciness of the dish.
Enjoy this dish with friends and family, perhaps accompanied by a crisp white wine or even a cold Vietnamese beer, to complete the authentic experience. Sit back and savor each mouthful of these deliciously spicy prawns, letting the vibrant flavors transport you to the lively streets of Saigon.