Description
A bold and addictive Chinese-inspired Kung Pao Prawn Stir Fry with peanuts. This recipe features tender prawns, crisp vegetables, and a glossy, sticky sauce with a kick of heat.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) large tiger prawns, peeled and deveined (tail-on optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Chinese black vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 2 tbsp neutral oil (peanut or vegetable oil)
- 4 dried red chilies, halved and seeds removed (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns (optional)
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 small onion, chopped
- 1/3 cup unsalted roasted peanuts
- 2 scallions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
Instructions
- Marinate the prawns: In a bowl, combine the tiger prawns with salt, white pepper, cornstarch, and Shaoxing wine. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, vinegar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, sugar, cornstarch, and water.
- Sear the prawns: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok over high heat. Add prawns in a single layer and sear for 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
- Stir-fry aromatics: Add another 1 tbsp oil to the wok. Stir-fry dried chilies and Sichuan peppercorns (if using) for 30 seconds. Add ginger, garlic, and white parts of scallions. Cook until fragrant.
- Add vegetables and peanuts: Add onion, red and green bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender. Add roasted peanuts and cook for 30 seconds.
- Combine: Return prawns to the wok. Pour the sauce over everything. Stir quickly to coat and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle with green parts of the scallions. Serve immediately over steamed rice or with noodles.
Notes
- For authentic Sichuan flavor, include the Sichuan peppercorns.
- Adjust the number of dried red chilies based on your spice preference.
- Ensure all ingredients are prepped before you start stir-frying, as the process is very quick.
- Do not overcook the prawns to maintain tenderness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
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