Steamed Garlic Prawns Recipe

Prawns: These should be peeled and deveined for ease of preparation. They are the star of the dish, providing a tender and juicy texture.

Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a robust and aromatic flavor to the prawns.

Olive oil: This oil helps to carry the flavors and adds a subtle richness to the dish.

Soy sauce: A salty and umami-rich condiment that enhances the overall taste.

Salt: Used to season the prawns and bring out their natural flavors.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the dish.

When preparing prawns, ensure they are peeled and deveined properly to avoid any gritty texture. For a more intense garlic flavor, let the prawns marinate in the garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper mixture for at least 15 minutes before steaming. This allows the prawns to absorb the flavors more deeply.

• prawns - Substitute with scallops: Scallops have a similar texture and mild flavor, making them a good alternative for prawns in this dish.

• prawns - Substitute with chicken breast: For those who prefer poultry, chicken breast can be used, though it will change the flavor profile slightly.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic, though it may lack the same intensity of flavor.

• minced garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the dish well.

• olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil is a neutral-flavored oil that can be used in place of olive oil.

• olive oil - Substitute with butter: Butter adds a rich flavor and can be used as a substitute for olive oil.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce with a similar flavor profile.

• soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos offer a slightly sweeter and less salty alternative to soy sauce.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in place of regular salt for a slightly different mineral content and flavor.

• salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has larger grains and can be used as a substitute for regular salt.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used as an alternative to black pepper.

• black pepper - Substitute with chili flakes: For a spicier kick, chili flakes can be used in place of black pepper.

• Allow the prawns to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess and spoilage.
• Transfer the cooled prawns to an airtight container. Ensure the container is clean and dry to maintain the freshness of the prawns.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the prawns within 2-3 days. This will keep them fresh and flavorful.
• For longer storage, place the prawns in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date of storage. This helps you keep track of how long the prawns have been stored and ensures you use them within a safe timeframe.
• When ready to reheat, thaw the prawns in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. This gradual thawing process helps maintain the texture and flavor.
• Reheat the prawns gently by steaming them for a few minutes or warming them in a skillet with a bit of olive oil. Avoid overcooking to prevent the prawns from becoming tough.
• Enjoy your reheated steamed garlic prawns as they were originally intended, or incorporate them into other dishes like pasta, salads, or stir-fries.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a splash of olive oil or a small knob of butter.
  3. Once the oil is hot, add the leftover prawns.
  4. Stir occasionally and heat for 2-3 minutes until the prawns are warmed through.
  5. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh taste.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the leftover prawns in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Check the prawns and stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
  5. Let it sit for a minute before serving.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the prawns in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil.
  3. Heat in the oven for about 10 minutes.
  4. Check to ensure the prawns are heated through.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy the revived flavors.

• Steaming Method:

  1. Set up your steamer and bring the water to a boil.
  2. Place the prawns in a heatproof dish and put it in the steamer.
  3. Steam for about 3-5 minutes or until the prawns are heated through.
  4. Remove from the steamer and serve immediately.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the prawns, garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper.

• Steamer: A kitchen appliance used to cook the prawns by steaming them, ensuring they are cooked through without losing moisture.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the olive oil, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper accurately.

• Garlic press: A tool to mince the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.

• Tongs: Used to handle the prawns when placing them in the steamer and when serving.

• Serving dish: A plate or bowl to serve the steamed garlic prawns hot.

Prep ingredients in advance: Mince the garlic and peel and devein the prawns ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use a garlic press: A garlic press can save you time and effort compared to mincing by hand.

Marinate overnight: Combine the prawns with the garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper the night before to enhance flavor and save time.

Use a timer: Set a timer for the steaming process to ensure perfectly cooked prawns without constant checking.