Get ready to transform your kitchen into a sizzling Thai street food haven with these irresistible Crispy Garlic Prawns that will make your taste buds dance! Imagine golden, crunchy prawns coated in a fragrant garlic crust, promising a flavor explosion that's both addictive and elegantly simple. Whether you're a seafood lover, a Thai cuisine enthusiast, or just someone who craves restaurant-quality dishes at home, this recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Thai
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb prawns, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Oil for frying
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Chili flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the prawns. Ensure they are peeled and deveined. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which will help achieve a crispier texture when frying.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch and minced garlic. This mixture will create a flavorful coating for the prawns. Make sure the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the cornstarch.
- Take each prawn and coat it thoroughly in the cornstarch and garlic mixture. Shake off any excess coating and set the prawns aside on a plate.
- In a large frying pan or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat. You will need enough oil to submerge the prawns partially, about 1-2 inches deep. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers, indicating it is hot enough for frying.
- Carefully add the coated prawns to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the prawns for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to flip them halfway through cooking.
- Once cooked, remove the prawns from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This will help keep them crispy.
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce and lime juice. This will serve as a dipping sauce for the prawns.
- Arrange the crispy garlic prawns on a serving platter. Drizzle with the soy sauce and lime mixture or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with a sprinkle of chili flakes for added heat and flavor.
- Serve the Thai Crispy Garlic Prawns immediately while they are hot and crispy. Enjoy with steamed rice or as an appetizer!
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy of Crispiness: Always pat your prawns completely dry before coating. Any excess water will prevent that perfect golden crunch.
- Oil Temperature is Crucial: Use a cooking thermometer if possible. Aim for 350-375°F for optimal frying. If you don't have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a small piece of garlic - it should sizzle immediately.
- Batch Cooking is Key: Never overcrowd your pan. Fry prawns in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even, crispy coating.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh garlic and, if possible, freshly squeezed lime juice for the most vibrant flavor.
- Serve Immediately: These prawns are best enjoyed hot and crispy right after cooking. Waiting too long can make them lose their signature crunch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 305kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 100mg
