If you're eager to broaden your cooking skills and experiment with different flavours, perhaps you should give a go at preparing a Chinese drunken prawn dish. Renowned for its distinct taste and aroma, this classic Chinese seafood recipe entails marinating prawns in a blend of Chinese herbs and wine, resulting in a delightful balance of sweetness and savouriness.
When selecting ingredients for your drunken prawn recipe, it is important to choose fresh seafood that is of high quality. You can use different types of seafood for this recipe, but prawns are the most common. If you're not a fan of prawns, you can also use other types of seafood such as scallops, clams, or even fish.
To prepare the dish, you will need to marinate the prawns in a mixture of Chinese herbs and wine for several hours. The herbs used in the recipe can vary depending on your preferences, but some of the most common ones include wolfberries, dang gui (angelica root), and ginseng. Once the prawns have been marinated, they are then cooked in a wok or a large frying pan until they are fully cooked. The dish is usually served with steamed rice or noodles.
Key Takeaways
- Chinese drunken prawn recipe is a classic seafood dish that is known for its unique flavour and aroma.
- When selecting ingredients for the recipe, choose fresh seafood that is of high quality.
- To prepare the dish, marinate the prawns in a mixture of Chinese herbs and wine for several hours, and then cook them in a wok or a large frying pan until they are fully cooked.
Selecting Ingredients
When it comes to making a delicious Drunken Prawn dish, selecting the right ingredients is essential. Here are some tips on how to choose the best ingredients for your recipe:
Choosing Fresh Prawns
Fresh prawns are the key to a tasty Drunken Prawn dish. When selecting prawns, make sure they are firm and have a bright colour. Avoid prawns that have a slimy texture or a fishy smell. You can use either large or small prawns for this recipe, but make sure they are fresh and of good quality.
If you are unable to find fresh prawns, you can use other seafood such as scallops or crab meat. These will add a delicious flavour to your dish and are a great alternative.
Herbs and Spices
Chinese herbs and spices are an essential part of this recipe. The combination of herbs and spices used in this dish is what gives it its unique flavour. The herbs and spices you will need include condonopsis root, red dates, wolfberries, and ginseng. These can be found at most Asian grocery stores and are relatively inexpensive.
In addition to these herbs and spices, you can also add ginger and spring onion to your recipe. These will add a fresh and aromatic flavour to your dish.
Selecting the Right Wine
The type of wine you use in this recipe is crucial. The traditional wine used in this recipe is Huatiao wine, which is a type of Chinese rice wine. This wine has a strong aroma and is slightly sweet, which makes it perfect for cooking.
If you are unable to find Huatiao wine, you can use other types of Chinese rice wine or even sherry. Just make sure to choose a wine that has a similar flavour profile to Huatiao wine.
In addition to wine, you can also use chicken or seafood stock to add more flavour to your dish.
Overall, selecting the right ingredients is crucial when making a delicious Drunken Prawn dish. By following these tips, you can ensure that your dish is full of flavour and has the perfect texture.
Preparation Techniques
Cleaning and Marinating Prawns
Before you start cooking the drunken prawns, it is important to clean and marinate them properly. First, rinse the prawns under running water and devein them. If you can get live prawns, it is recommended to use them for a fresher taste.
Next, boil 1 litre of water in a saucepan over high heat and add the prawns, a pinch of salt, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Boil for about 3 minutes, making sure not to overcook the prawns. Drain off the water and transfer the prawns into the cold herbal brine. Cover and chill the prawns with herbal brine in the chiller.
For the marinade, you can use Chinese rice wine or Huatiao wine, depending on your preference. You can also add ginger, dang gui, ginseng, and red dates to the marinade for added flavour. Marinate the prawns for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to infuse.
Preparing the Herbs
The herbs used in the drunken prawn recipe are important as they add a unique flavour to the dish. Dang gui, ginseng, and red dates are commonly used in herbal drunken prawn recipes.
Dang gui, also known as Chinese Angelica, is a herb that is often used in traditional Chinese medicine. It has a sweet and slightly bitter taste and is believed to have various health benefits.
Ginseng is another herb that is used in traditional Chinese medicine. It has a slightly bitter taste and is believed to have various health benefits, including boosting the immune system.
Red dates, also known as jujubes, are sweet and slightly sour. They are commonly used in Chinese cuisine and are believed to have various health benefits, including improving digestion and blood circulation.
It is important to use fresh herbs for the best flavour. You can also use other seafood such as scallops or mussels in the recipe to add variety. However, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Cooking Method
Boiling vs Steaming
When it comes to cooking drunken prawns, there are two primary methods: boiling and steaming. Boiling is the more traditional method, but steaming is a healthier alternative that can help to preserve the natural flavours of the prawns.
To boil the prawns, fill a pot with enough water to cover the prawns completely. Add some salt and bring the water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the prawns and cook them for around 3 minutes. Do not overcook the prawns, as this can make them tough and rubbery.
Steaming the prawns is a healthier option that can help to preserve the natural flavours of the prawns. To steam the prawns, fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, place the prawns in a steamer basket and place the basket in the pot. Cover the pot and steam the prawns for around 5 minutes.
Sauce and Broth Preparation
To make the sauce for the drunken prawns, you will need chicken stock, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Combine these ingredients in a bowl and mix well. This will be the sauce that you will use to coat the prawns after they have been cooked.
For the broth, you can use the water that you boiled or steamed the prawns in. Add some herbs and spices to the broth, such as ginger, garlic, and green onions, to give it more flavour. You can also add some seafood, such as clams or mussels, to the broth to make it more hearty and flavourful.
When serving the drunken prawns, you can either pour the sauce over the prawns or serve it on the side for dipping. The broth can be served in a separate bowl for sipping or poured over the prawns for added flavour.
Serving Suggestions
Plating
When it comes to plating drunken prawns, simplicity is key. You want the succulent prawns to be the star of the show. A simple white plate or bowl will do the trick. To make it look more appetizing, you can add a few sprigs of spring onions on top of the prawns. This not only adds a pop of colour but also a refreshing crunch.
Garnishes and Accompaniments
Drunken prawns are heavenly on their own, but you can take it up a notch with some garnishes and accompaniments. A sprinkle of wolfberries on top of the prawns will add a touch of sweetness and texture. You can also serve the prawns with some steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious broth. If you want to make it more sharing-friendly, serve it in a large bowl with a ladle for your guests to help themselves.
Proposing the use of seafood in the recipe, you can use other types of seafood such as scallops or mussels to make the dish more interesting. However, prawns are the most commonly used seafood for this recipe. Make sure to use fresh seafood to get the best flavour and texture.
Regional Variations
Singaporean Drunken Prawns
Singaporean Drunken Prawns are a popular seafood dish in Singapore. The dish is made by marinating fresh prawns in Shaoxing wine, which is a type of Chinese wine, and then cooking them in a wok. The prawns are typically served with the marinade, which is rich in flavour and adds a unique taste to the dish.
If you are looking to add some variety to your Singaporean Drunken Prawns, you can try using different types of seafood such as crab, lobster or clams. These seafood options can add a different flavour and texture to the dish, making it a great option for seafood lovers.
Herbal Drunken Prawns
Herbal Drunken Prawns are a variation of the traditional Drunken Prawns dish. This dish is made by marinating fresh prawns in a mixture of Chinese herbs and Shaoxing wine, which is then cooked in a wok. The herbs used in this dish typically include Dang Gui (Chinese Angelica), Yuzhu (Solomon's Seal), Red dates, Wolfberries, and Ginseng roots.
If you are looking to add some variety to your Herbal Drunken Prawns, you can try using different types of Chinese wine such as sake or rice wine. These wine options can add a different flavour and aroma to the dish, making it a great option for those who enjoy experimenting with different ingredients.
Proposing the use of seafood in this recipe, you can use different types of seafood such as scallops, squid, or mussels. These seafood options can add a different flavour and texture to the dish, making it a great option for seafood lovers.
Overall, the regional variations of Drunken Prawns offer a unique and flavourful experience that is worth trying. Whether you prefer the traditional Singaporean Drunken Prawns or the Herbal Drunken Prawns, both options are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to marinate prawns for a drunken prawn dish?
The best way to marinate prawns for a drunken prawn dish is to use a mixture of Chinese rice wine, ginger, and garlic. You can also add some soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil to the marinade for added flavour. Marinate the prawns for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, before cooking.
Can you suggest a simple method for preparing drunken prawns at home?
A simple method for preparing drunken prawns at home is to boil the prawns in a mixture of Chinese rice wine, ginger, and garlic. You can also add some chilli for a spicy kick. Once the prawns are cooked, remove them from the broth and serve with some of the broth as a dipping sauce.
How do you fry prawns for a crispy drunken prawn meal?
To fry prawns for a crispy drunken prawn meal, first marinate the prawns as described above. Then, coat the prawns in cornstarch or tempura batter and deep-fry them until they are golden brown and crispy. Serve with some of the marinade as a dipping sauce.
What are the key herbs for a steam herbal prawn recipe?
The key herbs for a steam herbal prawn recipe are usually condonopsis root, red dates, wolfberries, and ginseng. These herbs are believed to have health benefits and add a unique flavour to the dish. You can also use other herbs such as goji berries or dried longan, depending on your preference.
What's the difference between drunken prawn and drunken shrimp?
The main difference between drunken prawn and drunken shrimp is the type of seafood used. Drunken prawn uses prawns, while drunken shrimp uses shrimp. The preparation method and ingredients are similar for both dishes.
How can I cook prawns with ginger for a flavourful twist?
To cook prawns with ginger for a flavourful twist, first sauté some sliced ginger in oil until fragrant. Then, add the prawns and stir-fry until they are cooked through. You can also add some soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil for added flavour. Serve with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Seafood such as lobsters, crabs, and clams can also be used in place of prawns for a variation of the dish.