Description
This Savory Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp recipe brings a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors with succulent prawns coated in a glossy caramel sauce. Infused with garlic, fish sauce, and aromatic spring onions, this dish is quick to prepare and ideal for flavorful dinners paired with steamed rice.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 kg fresh prawns (Make sure they’re fresh for the best flavor and texture.)
Marinade & Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
- 1.5 tsp salt (Adjust to taste; enhances natural sweetness)
- 1 tsp pepper (freshly cracked)
- 1 tbsp chicken bouillon powder
- 1 tsp dark soy sauce
- 3 tbsp fish sauce
- 3 tbsp sugar (key for caramelization)
Cooking
- 4 tbsp cooking oil (neutral oil preferred)
- 1 sprig spring onion (divided into 5cm/2″ segments)
Instructions
- Preparation: Gather all ingredients and equipment. Rinse the prawns thoroughly under cold water and set aside.
- Prepare the Prawns: Cut off the sharp part of the head of each prawn, snip the legs from tail to head, and carefully cut off the tail for easier cooking and eating.
- Devein the Prawns: Use a toothpick or small knife to gently scoop out and remove the intestinal tract along the back of each prawn to ensure cleanliness and better taste.
- Marinate the Prawns: In a large bowl, combine prawns with finely chopped garlic, salt, pepper, chicken bouillon powder, and dark soy sauce. Mix well and allow to marinate for 20 minutes, absorbing the flavors.
- Heat the Pan: Place a wok or large pan over high heat. Pour the cooking oil in and heat it until it shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough for cooking.
- Test the Oil: Dip a wooden utensil into the oil; if bubbles form around it, the oil is hot. Add the marinated prawns and sugar directly into the hot oil.
- Cook the Prawns: Sauté the prawns for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn caramelized and develop a glossy, rich brown coating.
- Add the Sauce: Pour in the fish sauce and stir well to combine. Allow the mixture to bubble and thicken for an additional 3 minutes to deepen the flavors.
- Finish with Aromatics: Toss in the spring onion segments (and chili if desired) for 2 minutes to add freshness and subtle spice. Remove the pan from heat immediately afterwards.
- Serve Hot: Plate the caramelized shrimp immediately, ideally accompanied by steamed white rice, and enjoy the rich, savory-sweet flavors.
Notes
- Ensure prawns are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Marinating helps infuse the shrimp with deeper flavors.
- Adjust salt and sugar amounts to suit your taste preference.
- Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or vegetable oil.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the caramelized texture at its best.
- Optional: Add sliced chili for extra heat.
