Tomato prawns Chinese recipe is an excellent choice for those seeking a delightful and straightforward seafood dish. A staple in Chinese cooking, this recipe combines succulent prawns with a zesty tomato sauce, creating a mouth-watering flavour that is sure to please your palate. If you are in need of a quick and tasty meal option for your busy weeknights, look no further than this classic dish that promises to satisfy your hunger and your taste buds.
Chinese tomato prawns are often served during special occasions, such as Chinese New Year, as they represent joy and happiness. The dish is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to those who eat it. However, you don't need a special occasion to enjoy this delicious recipe. It's a perfect dish for any day of the week, whether you're cooking for yourself or entertaining guests.
Key Takeaways
- Tomato prawns is a classic Chinese dish that is easy to make and bursting with flavour.
- This dish is often served during special occasions as it is believed to bring joy and happiness.
- Tomato prawns can be enjoyed any day of the week and is perfect for entertaining guests or a simple weeknight dinner.
Background on Chinese Tomato Prawns
If you are a seafood lover, then you must have tried the delicious Chinese tomato prawns at least once. It is a classic Chinese dish that is known for its rich flavour and aroma. In this section, we will discuss the historical significance and cultural relevance of this mouth-watering dish.
Historical Significance
The Cantonese people, who are known for their love for seafood, are credited with the invention of this dish. The dish originated in Guangzhou, a city in Southern China, which is famous for its Cantonese cuisine. The recipe for Chinese tomato prawns has been passed down from generation to generation, and it has become one of the most popular seafood dishes in China.
Cultural Relevance
Chinese tomato prawns have become an integral part of Chinese cuisine, and it is often served during special occasions such as Chinese New Year and weddings. The Cantonese people believe that seafood is a symbol of good luck and prosperity, and therefore, they often serve seafood dishes during these special occasions.
In Chinese culture, food is not just a means of sustenance, but it is also a way of bringing people together. Chinese tomato prawns are often served during family gatherings and celebrations, and it is a way of showing love and care for your family and friends.
In conclusion, Chinese tomato prawns are a delicious and culturally significant dish that has been enjoyed by the Cantonese people for centuries. With its rich flavour and aroma, it is no wonder that this dish has become one of the most popular seafood dishes in China.
Ingredients and Substitutions
When it comes to making a delicious tomato prawns Chinese recipe, choosing the right ingredients is key. Here are some tips to help you select the best ingredients and make substitutions if needed.
Choosing the Right Prawns
For the best results, choose fresh, large prawns with the shells still on. You can devein them yourself or purchase them already deveined. If you can't find fresh prawns, you can use frozen ones instead. Just make sure to thaw them completely before using.
Tomato Varieties and Alternatives
When making a tomato prawns Chinese recipe, it's important to choose the right type of tomato. Ripe, juicy tomatoes work best. You can use any variety of tomato you like, but Roma tomatoes are a popular choice. If you can't find fresh tomatoes, you can use canned tomatoes instead. Just make sure to drain them before using.
If you're looking for an alternative to tomatoes, you can use red bell peppers instead. They have a similar sweet and tangy flavour that works well in this dish.
Seasoning for the Perfect Flavour
To give your tomato prawns Chinese recipe the perfect flavour, you'll need to use the right seasoning. Ginger, garlic, and onion are all essential ingredients that add depth and complexity to the dish. Chinese rice wine or dry sherry can be used to deglaze the pan and add a subtle sweetness. Sugar and salt are used to balance the flavours, while ketchup and soy sauce add a tangy and savoury kick.
If you don't have Chinese rice wine or dry sherry, you can use white wine or apple cider vinegar instead. And if you're looking for a low-sodium alternative to soy sauce, you can use coconut aminos or tamari instead.
Cooking Techniques
Preparing the Prawns
To get the best flavour and texture from your prawns, it's important to prepare them properly. Start by cleaning and deveining them. You can do this by making a shallow cut along the back of the prawn and removing the black vein. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
Mastering the Stir Fry
Stir-frying is a quick and easy way to cook prawns and vegetables. To stir-fry, you will need a wok or a large, deep frying pan. Heat the pan over high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the prawns and stir-fry them for 1-2 minutes until they are pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough and rubbery.
Sauce and Seasoning Tips
The sauce and seasoning can make or break a tomato prawn stir-fry. To make a delicious sauce, mix together some soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and cornstarch. You can also add some cooking wine for extra flavour. Once the sauce is mixed, set it aside.
When it comes to seasoning, keep it simple. Salt and pepper work well, but you can also add some garlic or ginger for extra flavour. To add these ingredients, finely chop them and add them to the pan with the prawns. Use a spatula to stir-fry everything together.
Overall, when cooking a tomato prawn stir-fry, it's important to use high heat, a wok or a deep frying pan, and to stir-fry the prawns quickly to avoid overcooking. With these tips and techniques, you can create a delicious and authentic Chinese dish in no time.
Serving and Pairing
Accompaniments
To complete your meal, serve the tomato prawns with a side of steamed rice. The rice will help to balance the richness of the dish and provide a neutral base to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also pair the dish with some stir-fried vegetables, such as bok choy or snow peas, to add some crunch and freshness to your plate.
If you're looking for a contrasting flavour to the sweetness of the tomato sauce, you can also serve the dish with a side of sweet and sour sauce. The tanginess of the sauce will complement the sweetness of the tomato and provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the prawns.
Wine Pairing
When it comes to wine pairing, a crisp and refreshing white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, would be an excellent choice. The acidity of the wine will help to cut through the richness of the dish and refresh your palate between bites. If you prefer red wine, a light-bodied Pinot Noir or Gamay would also work well.
Remember, the tomato prawns are the main attraction, so keep the wine pairing simple and light to avoid overpowering the delicate flavours of the dish.
Nutritional Information
Calorie Count
Tomato prawns is a delicious Chinese recipe that is packed with nutrition. One serving of tomato prawns contains approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the method of preparation.
The calorie count of tomato prawns can vary depending on the cooking method used. For example, if you choose to fry the prawns instead of stir-frying them, the calorie count will be higher. However, if you use fresh ingredients and avoid adding excessive amounts of oil or salt, you can keep the calorie count relatively low.
Health Benefits
Tomato prawns is a nutritious dish that can provide several health benefits. Prawns are a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles. They are also low in fat and calories, making them an ideal choice for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet.
Tomatoes are another key ingredient in this dish, and they are packed with nutrition. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin, eyes, and bones. They are also a good source of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Overall, tomato prawns is a healthy and delicious dish that can provide several nutritional benefits. By using fresh ingredients and avoiding excessive amounts of oil or salt, you can enjoy this dish without worrying about the calorie count.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the secret to the juiciest prawns in a Chinese-style tomato recipe?
The secret to juicy prawns is to not overcook them. Prawns cook quickly, so it's important to keep an eye on them. Cook them just until they turn pink and curl into a "C" shape. Overcooking them will make them tough and rubbery. Also, make sure to use fresh prawns for the best flavour.
How do you perfectly tenderise shrimp for a Chinese dish?
To tenderise shrimp, you can use a mixture of cornstarch and egg whites. This will help to break down the proteins in the shrimp and make them more tender. Simply whisk together one egg white and one tablespoon of cornstarch, then toss the shrimp in the mixture before cooking.
What's the best way to serve prawns with tomato sauce over rice?
Prawns with tomato sauce is a classic Chinese dish that is often served over steamed white rice. To make it even more delicious, you can add some chopped scallions and cilantro on top for a burst of fresh flavour. You can also serve it with some stir-fried vegetables on the side for a complete meal.
Could you recommend a top-notch Chinese shrimp sauce recipe?
A classic Chinese shrimp sauce is made with soy sauce, rice wine, sugar, and ginger. You can also add garlic, sesame oil, and chili flakes to give it some extra flavour. Here's a simple recipe to try:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice wine
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- Pinch of chili flakes
Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl and use it to marinate your shrimp before cooking.
Is there a traditional method for preparing shrimp with ketchup in Cantonese cooking?
Yes, there is a traditional Cantonese dish called "shrimp with ketchup" that is made with shrimp, ketchup, soy sauce, sugar, and vinegar. Here's a simple recipe to try:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Mix together the ketchup, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, cornstarch, and water in a bowl. Set aside. Heat some oil in a wok over high heat. Add the garlic and ginger and stir-fry for 30 seconds. Add the shrimp and stir-fry until pink, about 2-3 minutes. Add the ketchup mixture and stir-fry until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper.
Should you fry or boil prawns when making a Chinese shrimp recipe?
It depends on the recipe. Some Chinese shrimp recipes call for frying the prawns, while others call for boiling them. Frying will give the prawns a crispy texture, while boiling will keep them tender. Make sure to follow the recipe instructions for the best results.