Mermaid Prawns
Mermaid Prawns Recipe - A Cambodian Delight with Curry, Tomato, Peanuts, Spinach, and More
Introduction
Mermaid Prawns is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the bold flavors of red curry Cambogee with succulent prawns. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers looking for a unique and exotic meal.
History
The recipe for Mermaid Prawns is inspired by traditional Thai cuisine, which is known for its use of aromatic herbs and spices. The combination of red curry Cambogee and prawns creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both spicy and savory.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of red curry Cambogee
- 6 prawns (in the shell)
- 2 tbsp of tomato paste
- 1 tbsp of chopped peanuts
- 1 cup of cooked spinach
- 12 fresh basil leaves
- 1 tbsp of chile paste
- 1 tsp of minced fresh ginger root
How to prepare
- In a mixing bowl, combine the curry Cambogee, prawns, tomato paste, and peanuts.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Take a heated plate and evenly spread a layer of spinach on the bottom.
- Remove the prawns from the sauce and remove their shells. Arrange the prawns on top of the spinach.
- Stir in the basil and chile paste into the sauce, then pour the sauce over the prawns. Sprinkle with fresh ginger and serve.
Variations
- Substitute chicken or tofu for the prawns for a different protein option.
- Add vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to cook the prawns just until they turn pink and opaque, as overcooking can make them tough and rubbery.
- Adjust the amount of chile paste to suit your spice preference.
- Fresh ingredients, such as basil and ginger, will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mermaid Prawns over steamed rice or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Cooking Techniques
The key cooking techniques for this dish include simmering the curry sauce to develop the flavors and cooking the prawns just until they are cooked through.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can't find red curry Cambogee, you can use red curry paste as a substitute. You can also use cashews instead of peanuts for a different nutty flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the curry sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Cook the prawns and assemble the dish just before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Mermaid Prawns with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager beer to complement the spicy flavors.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Mermaid Prawns contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
The carbohydrates in this dish primarily come from the tomato paste and spinach, providing essential energy for your body.
Fats
The fats in this dish come from the peanuts and the coconut milk in the red curry Cambogee, which add richness and flavor to the dish.
Proteins
Prawns are a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the tomatoes and spinach, and iron from the prawns.
Alergens
This dish contains shellfish (prawns) and peanuts, which are common allergens. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving.
Summary
Mermaid Prawns is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
Summary
Mermaid Prawns is a delicious and exotic dish that combines the bold flavors of red curry Cambogee with succulent prawns. With a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and aromatic flavors, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a sunny afternoon, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, who lived by the sea. As we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping tea, she suddenly got up and rummaged through her old recipe box.
"Ah, here it is!" she exclaimed, pulling out a faded piece of paper. "Mermaid Prawns - a family recipe passed down from generations."
I leaned in eagerly, watching as she gathered the ingredients and began to cook. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating - a mix of garlic, butter, and fresh seafood. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.
As Mrs. Jenkins plated the prawns, she looked at me with a twinkle in her eye. "This recipe is special," she said. "It was inspired by the mermaids that are said to swim in these waters."
I chuckled at her whimsical tale, but as soon as I took my first bite, I understood what she meant. The prawns were tender and juicy, with a subtle hint of the sea. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.
From that moment on, Mermaid Prawns became a staple in my kitchen. I would make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on a quiet evening. Each time I cooked it, I would think back to that sunny afternoon with Mrs. Jenkins and smile.
Over the years, I perfected the recipe, adding my own touch here and there. I would experiment with different spices, herbs, and cooking techniques, always striving to improve upon the original. But no matter how many variations I tried, the essence of Mermaid Prawns remained the same - a dish that captured the magic of the sea.
As I continued to cook and share this recipe with others, I began to realize just how powerful food can be. It has the ability to bring people together, to create memories, and to tell stories. And for me, Mermaid Prawns was more than just a recipe - it was a connection to my past, a link to my friend Mrs. Jenkins, and a way to honor the traditions that had been passed down to me.
Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, surrounded by the familiar smells and sounds of cooking, I can't help but feel grateful for all the recipes that have come into my life. Each one has its own story, its own history, and its own magic. And as I take a bite of the Mermaid Prawns simmering on the stove, I am reminded once again of the power of food to nourish not only the body, but the soul as well.
So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, trying out a new recipe or revisiting an old favorite, remember to savor the moment. Take a moment to appreciate the flavors, the textures, and the love that went into creating that dish. And who knows, you may just discover a little bit of magic along the way - just like I did with my beloved Mermaid Prawns.
Categories
| Basil Recipes | Cambodian Meat Dishes | Cambodian Recipes | Chile Pepper Recipes | Curry Recipes | Spinach Recipes |