How to Make Vietnamese Prawn Stir-Fry with Garlic and Chili
Vietnamese Prawn Stir-Fry with Garlic and Chili is a delicious and vibrant dish that showcases the beautiful flavors of Vietnam. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Follow these steps to create an exceptional dish that is not only easy to prepare but also visually stunning.
Ingredients
To make this Vietnamese Prawn Stir-Fry, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 500g large prawns, shelled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 red chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Fresh coriander, for garnish
- Steamed rice, for serving
Instructions
1. Prepare the Prawns
Begin by rinsing the prawns under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. This step is essential to ensure the prawns sauté properly without excess moisture.
2. Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the prawns, as this will help them sear nicely.
3. Stir-Fry the Garlic and Chili
Add the minced garlic and sliced red chilies to the hot oil. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds, or until the garlic is fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Cook the Prawns
Next, add the prawns to the skillet, stirring quickly to coat them with the garlic and chili oil. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the prawns turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking them to maintain their tender texture.
5. Add Vegetables
Once the prawns are cooked, add the sliced bell pepper and onion. Stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly while still retaining their crunch.
6. Season the Stir-Fry
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Pour this sauce over the prawns and vegetables, stirring well to combine. Cook for another minute to let the flavors meld together.
7. Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the stir-fry to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander for a burst of flavor and color. Serve hot with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Vietnamese Prawn Stir-Fry
- Use fresh prawns for the best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of chili according to your heat preference.
- For added crunch, consider adding broccoli or snap peas to the stir-fry.
- Marinating the prawns in a little bit of soy sauce and garlic for 15 minutes before cooking can enhance the flavor.
Enjoy this tantalizing Vietnamese Prawn Stir-Fry with Garlic and Chili and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings a touch of Vietnamese cuisine to your dining table.