Golden Crispy Prawn with Cantonese Style Sauce
Welcome to my culinary journey where we explore the rich and diverse world of Chinese cuisine. Today, we delve into the exquisite flavors of Cantonese cooking with a dish that is both visually stunning and incredibly delicious: Golden Crispy Prawn with Cantonese Style Sauce. This dish not only captures the essence of Cantonese culinary artistry but also provides a delightful experience for your taste buds.
Introduction to Cantonese Cuisine
Cantonese cuisine, originating from Guangdong Province in southern China, is renowned for its subtle flavors and emphasis on fresh ingredients. It is characterized by minimal use of spices and a focus on enhancing the natural taste of the food. The Cantonese style sauce used in this recipe is a perfect example of this approach, balancing sweetness, acidity, and umami to create a harmonious blend that complements the crispy prawns beautifully.
Ingredients
- Large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Flour
- Eggs
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
- Soy sauce
- Dark soy sauce
- Hoisin sauce
- Rice vinegar
- Sugar
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Spring onions
- Chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
Begin by preparing the prawns. Start with large, fresh shrimp, peeling them and removing the veins for a cleaner taste. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they achieve maximum crispiness when fried.
For the batter, mix flour with a beaten egg until you have a smooth paste. Add a pinch of salt for seasoning. Dredge each prawn in the flour mixture, then dip them into the egg batter, and finally coat them generously with panko breadcrumbs. Place the coated prawns on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the coating to set.
While the prawns are chilling, prepare the Cantonese style sauce. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, dark soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it comes to a simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Once the sauce has thickened slightly, remove it from the heat and set aside.
To fry the prawns, heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Test the oil’s readiness by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready. Carefully place the prawns into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the prawns from the oil and drain them on paper towels.
For the garnish, finely chop garlic, ginger, and spring onions. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a small pan and sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add the chopped spring onions and chili flakes (if using) and cook for another minute. Pour this mixture over the fried prawns just before serving to enhance their flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Golden Crispy Prawn with Cantonese Style Sauce is best served as an appetizer or a main course accompanied by steamed rice or noodles. The contrast between the crunchy prawns and the tangy, sweet sauce makes it a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. You can also add some fresh vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for added color and texture.
Nutritional Information
This dish is high in protein due to the prawns and provides a good amount of healthy fats from the oil used for frying. However, it is important to note that the frying process adds extra calories, so moderation is key. For a healthier option, consider baking the prawns instead of frying them.
Tips and Variations
If you prefer a less spicy version, omit the chili flakes. For a more intense flavor, you can marinate the prawns in soy sauce and rice wine for half an hour before frying. Another variation involves adding diced pineapple to the sauce for a hint of tropical sweetness.
Conclusion
Golden Crispy Prawn with Cantonese Style Sauce is a testament to the art of Cantonese cooking, combining simplicity with sophistication. Its preparation requires attention to detail and patience, but the result is a dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a special meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
