There’s a certain thrill that comes with the sound of sizzling prawns hitting a hot skillet, and I often find myself drawn to the vibrant colors and aromas that fill my kitchen. The moment I added a splash of sesame oil and a heap of garlic to those tender shrimp, my senses were ignited with anticipation. This recipe for Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns is not only a quick solution for busy weeknight dinners—taking just 15 minutes from start to finish—but it’s also a culinary journey that melds sweet, spicy, and savory flavors beautifully.
Whether you’re entertaining friends, impressing a date, or just treating yourself to a delightful meal, these prawns deliver a satisfying experience reminiscent of your favorite modern Thai restaurant. With options to adjust spice levels or even create a milder version tailored to your taste, this dish is not just versatile; it’s a true centerpiece that can cater to everyone at the table. Grab your ingredients and get ready to unleash a burst of flavor that will have you reaching for seconds!
Why are Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns a must-try?
Quick preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor explosion: The combination of garlic, chili, and sesame creates a robust taste that will tantalize your taste buds.
Customizable spice level: Adjust the heat to suit your preference, offering something for everyone.
Versatile serving options: Pair it with rice or cauliflower rice for a delightful meal.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for dinner parties or casual meals alike, you’ll impress any guest with this dish!
Looking for a salad to complement this? Check out our refreshing Asian Slaw for a balanced meal!
Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns Ingredients
For the Prawns
• Prawns/Shrimp – Use raw, peeled, and deveined prawns for the best texture and flavor; frozen is acceptable if thawed beforehand.
• Vegetable Oil – Necessary for searing the prawns; can be substituted with canola oil if needed.
For the Sauce
• Sesame Oil (toasted) – Gives a rich, nutty flavor; use toasted for more depth, or substitute with untoasted if unavailable.
• Garlic – Essential for flavor; finely mince to really release the aroma in the dish.
• Ginger – Adds a warm, spicy note; optional but recommended for an extra layer of flavor.
• Chili Flakes – Provides the heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance for the Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns. Consider using minced fresh chili for a different type of spice.
• Water – Necessary to help create the desired sauce consistency.
• Sriracha – Adds complex heat and flavor; can be replaced with another hot sauce of similar consistency if preferred.
• Soy Sauce – Provides umami and depth; light or all-purpose soy sauce works well.
• Brown Sugar – Balances the spice with sweetness; can use white sugar as a substitute if you like.
For Garnishing
• Garnishes (optional) – Sesame seeds, green onions, and red chilies add texture and visual appeal, enhancing your dish beautifully.
How to Make Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns
- Preheat a large skillet over high heat and add vegetable oil. Let it heat up for about 2 minutes; you’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers.
- Sear half of the prawns for about 45 seconds on each side, until they’re golden and opaque; then, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium and return the skillet to the stove. Add sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes; sauté until fragrant for about 30 seconds.
- Combine the sauce ingredients: add water, Sriracha, soy sauce, and brown sugar to the skillet. Stir it well and let it simmer for about 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the prawns to the skillet and toss them gently to coat well in the sauce. Heat through for 1-2 minutes, and ensure they are cooked just right—no more than that!
- Garnish your dish with sesame seeds, green onions, and red chilies as desired. Serve with your choice of rice or cauliflower rice for a fantastic finish.
Optional: Top with extra sesame seeds for added crunch and flair!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make this dish your own!
- Dairy-Free: Swap in coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a sweeter, allergen-friendly alternative without compromising flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced fresh jalapeños or Thai bird chilis for an extra layer of heat that will warm your soul.
- Mild Flavor: Skip the chili flakes altogether and use a sweeter sauce like teriyaki as a gentle alternative for those sensitive to spice.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate snap peas, bell peppers, or broccoli florets into the sauté for added color and nutrition; they will absorb that flavor beautifully.
- Herbaceous Twist: Finish the dish with freshly chopped cilantro or basil to add a fragrant herb note that elevates each bite.
- Crispy Texture: Top with crunchy fried shallots for an irresistible contrast to the tender prawns, packing a flavorful punch with every mouthful.
- Asian-Inspired Slaw: Serve alongside a quick pickled cabbage salad to enhance the meal with a fresh, zesty crunch that brightens the palate.
- Soy-Free: Use tamari as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce for those with gluten sensitivities, while still achieving a deep umami flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the prawns with the sauce ingredients (except for the sesame oil) up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to infuse for a more delicious dish. Simply refrigerate the marinated shrimp in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, preheat your skillet, add the sesame oil, and sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant, then toss in the marinated prawns. This method not only streamlines your cooking but ensures your prawns are just as juicy and flavorful when served!
How to Store and Freeze Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns
-
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The texture may soften, but reheating gently can help restore some moisture.
-
Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. For best results, separate the prawns from the sauce before freezing to maintain their texture.
-
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then gently reheat in a skillet over low heat just until heated through, stirring occasionally.
-
Freshness Tip: For the best experience, enjoy your Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns fresh, as the flavors are most vibrant immediately after cooking.
Tips for the Best Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns
-
Don’t Overcook: Prawns should curl into a “C” shape when cooked properly; overcooking makes them rubbery and less enjoyable.
-
Spice Balance: Adjust chili flakes gradually; start with a little and add more as needed for your own perfect heat level in the Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns.
-
Fresh Ingredients: Always go for fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor infusion; dried or powdered versions won’t yield the same aromatic result.
-
Skip Splatters: When adding chili flakes to the oil, lower the heat first to minimize spattering; this keeps your cooking area cleaner.
-
Sauce Thickness: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer; keep stirring to prevent burning while achieving that glossy finish you desire.
-
Versatile Pairing: Because of its bold flavors, serve the Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns alongside simple sides like rice or salads that won’t compete with its vibrant taste.
What to Serve with Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns?
Elevate your meal experience by complementing the bold flavors of these prawns with some delicious sides and drinks that will create a harmonious dining experience!
-
Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fluffy, fragrant base that soaks up the spicy sauce, enhancing the prawns’ delightful flavors. Perfect for a satisfying bite!
-
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that keeps the meal light yet satisfying, offering a gentle crunch that pairs beautifully with the sauce.
-
Asian Slaw: A refreshing, crunchy salad loaded with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing, providing a contrasting texture and a burst of freshness to balance the dish.
-
Cucumber Salad: Lightly dressed with sesame oil and vinegar, this dish adds a refreshing element that cools down the heat from the prawns.
-
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick-cooked bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli tossed in a light soy glaze are a vibrant side that adds color, nutrition, and crunch to your plate.
-
Chilled Sake or White Wine: A delicate drink that complements the spice of the prawns while accentuating the rich flavor of sesame oil and garlic.
-
Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet treat, this classic Thai dessert offers a comforting counterpart, contrasting the savory elements with its creamy coconut and sweet mango flavor.
Pair your Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns with these suggestions to delight your palate and create a meal that’s nothing short of extraordinary!
Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right prawns?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, opt for raw, peeled, and deveined prawns. Frozen prawns are acceptable too—just remember to thaw them completely before cooking. Look for prawns that are firm to the touch and have a mild, ocean-like smell; avoid ones with dark spots or a strong odor, as these indicate they may not be fresh.
How should I store leftovers?
For the freshest experience, it’s best to enjoy your Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns right away. However, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that they may lose some texture, but gently reheating them in a skillet can help restore moisture and flavor!
Can I freeze Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns?
Yes, you can! For best results, separate the prawns from the sauce before freezing to maintain their texture. Store the prawns in an airtight container for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
What if my prawns are overcooked?
The key to perfectly cooked prawns is to watch them closely; they should curl into a “C” shape when done. If they happen to be overcooked and rubbery, try using them in a stir-fry or blended into a sauce to help disguise the texture. Don’t fret too much; it’s all part of the cooking journey!
Can I modify the spice level?
Very! If you desire a milder dish, simply adjust the amount of chili flakes to your taste. You can also skip the Sriracha altogether or mix in some ketchup combined with rice vinegar for a sweet and mild alternative. Tailoring the heat to suit your diners ensures everyone enjoys the dish!
What dietary considerations should I keep in mind?
When preparing this dish, be cautious if serving to guests with allergies. Most ingredients are gluten-free, but make sure to check for sauces like soy sauce as they can contain gluten. Additionally, always ask about shellfish allergies; prawns are a common allergen that some individuals must avoid.
Savory Asian Chilli Garlic Prawns Ready in 15 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat a large skillet over high heat and add vegetable oil. Let it heat up for about 2 minutes; you'll know it's ready when it shimmers.
- Sear half of the prawns for about 45 seconds on each side, until they're golden and opaque; then, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium and return the skillet to the stove. Add sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes; sauté until fragrant for about 30 seconds.
- Combine the sauce ingredients: add water, Sriracha, soy sauce, and brown sugar to the skillet. Stir it well and let it simmer for about 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the prawns to the skillet and toss them gently to coat well in the sauce. Heat through for 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are cooked just right.
- Garnish your dish with sesame seeds, green onions, and red chilies as desired. Serve with your choice of rice or cauliflower rice.