There’s a certain joy that comes from cooking a dish that dazzles both the eyes and the palate. Picture this: plump, succulent prawns glistening with a crispy, golden coating, each bite bursting with a rich, creamy salted egg yolk flavor that wraps around your taste buds like a warm hug. When I first tried Salted Egg Yolk Prawns at a bustling Asian market, I was hooked. The intoxicating aroma wafting from the chef’s kitchen was impossible to resist, and what I discovered was a delightful harmony of textures and tastes that elevated my idea of seafood.
This dish isn’t just a feast for the senses; it’s remarkably easy to make at home! With just a few fresh ingredients and a simple process, you can impress your family or guests with a meal that feels luxurious but comes together in no time. Perfect for gatherings or a special night in, these Salted Egg Yolk Prawns are here to transform your dining experience from ordinary to extraordinary. So let’s dive in and embark on this culinary adventure together!
Why are Salted Egg Yolk Prawns irresistible?
Decadent Flavor: Each bite of these prawns transports you with the sumptuous richness of salted egg yolk paired with buttery goodness.
Crispy Delight: The perfect crispy coating provides a satisfying crunch, making them an instant crowd favorite.
Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and a fast cooking process, you can whip up this seafood masterpiece in no time.
Versatile Serving: Enjoy as an eye-catching appetizer or a luxurious main dish alongside rice for a full meal.
Cultural Experience: Bring a taste of Asian cuisine to your table, celebrating flavors cherished during festive occasions.
Salted Egg Yolk Prawns Ingredients
For the Prawns
• Fresh Prawns – Use large, raw, peeled prawns for optimal texture and flavor.
• Potato Starch – Coats prawns for a crispy finish; can be replaced with corn starch if unavailable.
For the Sauce
• Salted Egg Yolks – Provide the unique, rich flavor that makes salted egg yolk prawns a standout dish; available at Asian markets or homemade.
• Butter – Adds a luscious creaminess to the sauce; substitute with margarine if needed.
• Chicken Bouillon Powder – Enhances the umami richness; for a vegetarian version, use vegetable bouillon.
• Sugar – Balances the savory elements of the sauce; adjust to taste based on saltiness.
This ingredient lineup sets the stage for crafting those mouthwatering Salted Egg Yolk Prawns you’ve been dreaming of!
How to Make Salted Egg Yolk Prawns
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Prepare the salted egg yolks: Start by steaming salted egg yolks on high for 15 minutes. Once cooked, allow them to cool before mashing them until fine and smooth.
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Prepare the prawns: Boldly trim off any sharp parts from the prawns. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with a paper towel to ensure a crispy finish.
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Coat the prawns: Lightly dust the prawns with potato starch. Let them rest in a colander for a few minutes to ensure the coating adheres well.
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Fry the prawns: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Carefully add the prawns and fry them for about 10 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and crispy.
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Make the sauce: In another pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the mashed salted egg yolks, sugar, and chicken bouillon powder. Stir and cook for about 3 minutes until just bubbly.
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Combine: Gently toss the crispy prawns in the luscious sauce until every prawn is evenly coated with that irresistible golden mixture.
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Serve: Plate your sumptuous Salted Egg Yolk Prawns immediately, garnishing with a wedge of lemon or a dollop of spicy mayonnaise for extra zing.
Optional: Serve with steamed jasmine rice for a complete, satisfying meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Salted Egg Yolk Prawns
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps the prawns safe and helps maintain their flavor, although they are best enjoyed fresh.
- Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring they regain that delightful crunch.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uneaten prawns in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Best used within 1 month for optimal taste.
- Thawing: Thaw frozen Salted Egg Yolk Prawns overnight in the fridge before reheating to ensure even cooking and preserve texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Egg Yolk Prawns are ideal for meal prep, transforming your cooking routine and saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the salted egg yolks up to 24 hours in advance by steaming, cooling, and mashing them for the sauce. The prawns can be coated in potato starch and refrigerated for up to 3 days ahead; this keeps them ready for frying while ensuring that their crispy texture remains intact. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the prawns, make the sauce with the prepped egg yolks, and combine. With these prep tips, you’ll savor the same delicious flavors and textures with minimal effort!
Salted Egg Yolk Prawns Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delicious twists that take your Salted Egg Yolk Prawns to the next level!
- Chicken Swap: Use chicken breast strips for a different protein option while still enjoying that luscious sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a thrilling heat that tantalizes your taste buds.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute potato starch with tapioca flour to cater to gluten-sensitive friends without sacrificing crunch.
- Veggie Delight: Replace prawns with firm tofu or cauliflower for a plant-based version equally rich and flavorful.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate finely chopped garlic or shallots into the sauce for a fragrant flavor boost.
- Citrus Zest: A dash of lemon or lime juice in the sauce adds a bright freshness that complements the salted egg yolks beautifully.
- Sweet Touch: Enhance the sauce with a splash of honey or coconut sugar for a unique flavor twist that balances savory and sweet.
- Crunchy Finish: Top your plated prawns with toasted sesame seeds or crushed nuts for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
What to Serve with Salted Egg Yolk Prawns?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing savory dishes that transform every meal into a feast.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant, fluffy rice absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully, making each bite perfectly balanced.
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Garlic Bok Choy: The tender-crisp veggies bring a refreshing crunch and vibrant color that complements the richness of the prawns.
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Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in a zesty vinegar dressing add a cool, refreshing contrast to the richness of the salted egg yolk sauce.
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Chili Garlic Sauce: A dollop of this fiery condiment adds an exciting kick, enhancing the flavors and providing a bold, spicy element.
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Stir-Fried Noodles: Pairing with savory stir-fried egg noodles creates a heavenly combination, offering both texture and satisfying flavors.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc brings out the prawns’ natural sweetness while cutting through the richness.
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Mango Sticky Rice: As a dessert, this tropical treat perfectly balances the savory flavors of the main dish with its sweetness and creaminess.
Let these pairings inspire your next dining adventure!
Expert Tips for Salted Egg Yolk Prawns
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Pat Dry Prawns: Make sure to dry the prawns thoroughly before frying; moisture will prevent them from achieving that desired crispy texture.
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Control Oil Temperature: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature. Too many prawns at once can lower the heat, leading to soggy results.
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Perfect Sauce Consistency: Use a food processor to mash the salted egg yolks for a velvety smooth sauce that coats the prawns evenly.
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Taste Adjustment: Always taste your sauce before serving! Adjust the sugar according to your personal preference for sweetness versus saltiness in the salted egg yolks.
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Proper Storage: Enjoy your Salted Egg Yolk Prawns fresh, but if storing, keep in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.
Salted Egg Yolk Prawns Recipe FAQs
What type of prawns should I use for Salted Egg Yolk Prawns?
I recommend using large, raw, peeled prawns for the best texture and flavor. Look for prawns that are firm to the touch and have a glossy, moist appearance. Avoid any that are discolored or have dark spots all over, as they may not be the freshest.
How should I store leftover Salted Egg Yolk Prawns?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will keep the prawns safe and help maintain their flavor, though they are best enjoyed fresh. When reheating, pop them in the oven or an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their original crispy texture.
Can I freeze Salted Egg Yolk Prawns?
Absolutely! To freeze, arrange the uneaten prawns in a single layer on a baking sheet, then place in the freezer until solid. After that, transfer them to a freezer bag. They’re best used within 1 month for optimal taste. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the fridge to ensure even reheating.
What if the sauce is too thick or not flavorful enough?
If your sauce turns out too thick, you can add a splash of water or more melted butter to achieve your desired consistency. For flavor adjustments, taste the sauce before serving. If it needs more saltiness, consider adding a touch of soy sauce or additional bouillon. To balance the flavors, you can also adjust the sugar according to your preference.
Are there any dietary considerations for Salted Egg Yolk Prawns?
For those with allergies, note that this recipe contains seafood and eggs. If you’re accommodating vegetarians, you can try using vegetable bouillon instead of chicken bouillon in the sauce. Additionally, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute potato starch with tapioca flour for the coating.
How can I ensure my prawns are crispy?
For maximum crispiness, ensure the prawns are thoroughly dried after washing them. Moisture will prevent achieving that desired crunch. Fry them in small batches; overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature and lead to sogginess. Make sure the oil is at the right temperature before adding the prawns, about 350°F (175°C) is ideal.
Crispy Salted Egg Yolk Prawns for a Flavorful Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the salted egg yolks: Start by steaming salted egg yolks on high for 15 minutes. Once cooked, allow them to cool before mashing them until fine and smooth.
- Prepare the prawns: Boldly trim off any sharp parts from the prawns. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with a paper towel to ensure a crispy finish.
- Coat the prawns: Lightly dust the prawns with potato starch. Let them rest in a colander for a few minutes to ensure the coating adheres well.
- Fry the prawns: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Carefully add the prawns and fry them for about 10 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and crispy.
- Make the sauce: In another pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the mashed salted egg yolks, sugar, and chicken bouillon powder. Stir and cook for about 3 minutes until just bubbly.
- Combine: Gently toss the crispy prawns in the luscious sauce until every prawn is evenly coated.
- Serve: Plate your sumptuous Salted Egg Yolk Prawns immediately, garnishing with a wedge of lemon or a dollop of spicy mayonnaise.