Dragon Prawns is a fiery, crunchy, and flavorful seafood dish that has gained popularity in many Asian cuisines. Known for its perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors, this dish is a favorite appetizer or side dish at many seafood restaurants. The prawns are coated in a crispy batter, fried to perfection, and then tossed in a spicy, tangy sauce that brings out a smoky-sweet heat. If you’re a fan of bold flavors and seafood, this recipe will undoubtedly become a household favorite. Let’s dive into how you can make this restaurant-style Dragon Prawns at home.

Ingredients for Dragon Prawns

Here’s what you’ll need to make Dragon Prawns:

For the Prawns:

• 500 grams large prawns (peeled and deveined)
• 1/2 cup cornflour
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

For the Dragon Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
• 1 tablespoon red chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
• 1/2 teaspoon vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• 1/2 cup water
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

How to Make Dragon Prawns: Step-by-Step Process

1. Prepare the Prawns

Start by peeling and deveining the prawns, leaving the tails on for an attractive presentation. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help the batter adhere better when frying.

2. Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine cornflour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the egg and mix well to form a smooth batter. The batter should be thick enough to coat the prawns, but not so thick that it forms clumps. Add a little water if necessary to adjust the consistency.

3. Coat the Prawns

Dip each prawn into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess batter before frying.

4. Fry the Prawns

Heat oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated prawns to the oil. Fry them in batches, turning them occasionally until golden brown and crispy (around 3-4 minutes per batch). Remove the prawns and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

5. Prepare the Dragon Sauce

In a separate pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing them until fragrant and golden. Add the red chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, tomato ketchup, and vinegar. Stir to combine, then add water to adjust the sauce’s consistency. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you prefer extra spice, add chili flakes at this stage.

6. Toss the Prawns in the Sauce

Once the sauce is ready, add the crispy prawns to the pan and toss them gently, ensuring they are well coated in the sauce. The sauce should give the prawns a glossy, sticky finish. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the prawns to absorb some of the sauce, but be careful not to overcook them.

7. Garnish and Serve

Once the prawns are well-coated in the sauce, transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of freshness and color. Serve the Dragon Prawns hot, alongside some steamed rice or noodles.

Tips for Making Perfect Dragon Prawns

• Prawns Selection: Choose large, fresh prawns that are firm and have a sweet smell. Frozen prawns can also be used, but make sure to thaw them properly and remove any excess water.
• Batter Consistency: The batter should be thick enough to coat the prawns but not too heavy. A thinner batter will result in a light and crispy coating.
• Adjust Spice Level: You can adjust the spice level of the Dragon Prawns by modifying the amount of chili sauce and chili flakes. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of chili.
• Crispy Coating: For an extra-crispy coating, double dip the prawns in the batter before frying. This will create a thicker, crunchier layer around the prawns.

Health Benefits of Dragon Prawns

• Rich in Protein: Prawns are an excellent source of high-quality protein, making them an ideal addition to a balanced diet.
• Low in Calories: Prawns are low in calories, so this dish makes for a healthy, indulgent treat when enjoyed in moderation.
• Packed with Nutrients: Prawns are rich in vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium, which help boost overall health and well-being.

How to Serve Dragon Prawns

Dragon Prawns are best served hot as a starter or appetizer. They can also be paired with a side of fried rice, steamed rice, or even noodles. The sweet and spicy sauce makes it a perfect match with a refreshing drink like lemonade or a cold beer. These prawns also work well as a topping for a salad or as a filling for wraps.

Dragon Prawns are a fantastic choice if you’re craving a flavorful, crispy, and spicy seafood dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a treat at home, this dish is sure to impress. With its perfect balance of flavors, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it today and experience the bold, delicious flavors of Dragon Prawns