Today, we are going to talk about a classic and delicious dish - prawn fried rice. This recipe is a perfect combination of juicy prawns, colorful mixed vegetables, fluffy basmati rice, and a hint of soy sauce and pepper. It's quick, easy to make, and bursting with flavors that will leave you wanting more. So, let's dive into the recipe and learn how to make this delightful prawn fried rice at home!

What Is Prawn Fried Rice?

• Prawn fried rice is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines succulent prawns with cooked basmati rice and an array of mixed vegetables. This dish is seasoned with light soy sauce, pepper powder, garlic, and spring onions, bringing out the rich and aromatic flavors of Indian spices. The unique seasoning and blend of ingredients make prawn fried rice a popular and delicious choice for a satisfying meal.
• Enjoying prawn fried rice is a wonderful way to experience the fusion of Indian flavors and classic fried rice, creating a dish that is both comforting and full of depth.

Why You'll Love Prawn Fried Rice?

• Delicious Texture: The prawn fried rice has a delightful combination of flavors and textures, with the juicy prawns, crunchy vegetables, and fluffy rice coming together in each mouthful.
• Protein-packed Prawns: Prawns are a great source of high-quality protein, making this dish a filling and satisfying option for a meal.
• Nutrient-rich Vegetables: The mixed vegetables in the fried rice provide essential vitamins and minerals, adding a healthy boost to the dish.
• Low in Fat: By using olive oil for cooking, this recipe keeps the fat content low while still delivering on flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: With the use of soy sauce as the only potential gluten-containing ingredient, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by opting for a gluten-free soy sauce.
• Customizable and Versatile: Prawn fried rice is a versatile dish that can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables and seasonings, making it a perfect go-to meal when you want something quick and delicious.

Ingredients for Prawn Fried Rice

• Basmati Rice: Provides a fluffy and aromatic base for the fried rice dish, creating a light and delicate texture.
• Prawns: Adds a seafood flavor and protein to the dish, enhancing the overall taste and texture.
• Mixed Vegetables: Contributes a variety of flavors and textures, as well as essential nutrients to the dish.
• Capsicums: Adds a crunchy texture and a slightly sweet, tangy flavor to the fried rice.
• Garlic: Adds a bold and aromatic flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste profile.
• Egg: Provides a creamy and slightly rich element, as well as added protein to the prawn fried rice.

How To Make Prawn Fried Rice?

To make delicious prawn fried rice, follow these simple steps for a flavorful experience:

• Marinate the prawns with soy sauce and pepper powder, and set aside for 10 minutes for the flavors to infuse.
• When cooking the rice, add salt, lemon juice, and oil to ensure the rice is fluffy and separated.
• Spread the cooked rice on a plate and let it cool completely, or you can also use leftover rice for this recipe.
• Stir-fry the marinated prawns in olive oil for about 3 minutes or until cooked, then set them aside.
• In a wide pan, heat olive oil and stir-fry garlic and spring onion whites until fragrant.
• Add the mixed vegetables and fry until they are almost cooked but still crunchy, then add capsicum and give a quick stir.
• Create a well in the center of the vegetables and pour in the lightly beaten egg. Scramble the egg and mix it with the vegetables.
• Add pepper powder, salt, and soy sauce, then stir in the cooked prawns.
• Mix in the cooked rice and stir well for 1-2 minutes.
• Stir in vinegar and pepper powder, and adjust the seasoning if needed.
• Garnish the prawn fried rice with spring onion greens and serve hot.

Following these steps will result in a delicious prawn fried rice that is bursting with flavor and perfect for any meal. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dish Ideas: Consider serving the prawn fried rice with a side of crispy vegetable spring rolls or a light cucumber salad to balance out the flavors.
• Refreshing Beverage: Pair the prawn fried rice with a cool glass of iced green tea or a refreshing pineapple mint smoothie for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Garnish with Herbs: Add a touch of freshness to the dish by garnishing the prawn fried rice with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or a few fresh basil leaves.
• Spicy Condiments: Offer a selection of spicy condiments such as chili garlic sauce or sambal oelek for those who enjoy an extra kick of heat with their meal.
• Fresh Fruit Dessert: Finish off the meal with a light and refreshing dessert such as a platter of mixed tropical fruits or a serving of mango and coconut milk tapioca pudding.
• Presentation Tip: Serve the prawn fried rice in a vibrant and colorful serving bowl to make the dish even more visually appealing and inviting.

Tips for Making Delicious Prawn Fried Rice

Furthermore, I would like to share some of my suggestions for making perfect prawn fried rice.

• Firstly, the key to the perfect fried rice is the rice, so you have to cook it till it is dense and fluffy. Additionally, when cooking the rice, adding a teaspoon of lemon juice and oil will help to keep the grains separated and fluffy, resulting in a better texture for your fried rice. You can also use the fork while fluffing the rice. And if you use the leftover rice, then your fried rice will be even better.
• When marinating the prawns, be sure to set them aside for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. When stir-frying the prawns, be sure to cook them for 3 minutes or until fully cooked to ensure they are tender and flavorful.
• When adding the vegetables, make sure to fry them until they are almost cooked but still crunchy, to retain their freshness and vibrant colors in the finished dish.
• Garnishing with spring onion greens adds a pop of color and freshness to the prawn fried rice, making it not only delicious but visually appealing as well. The presentation of the dish is just as important as the taste, so take the time to garnish it beautifully before serving.

By following these practical tips, you can create a delicious prawn fried rice that is bursting with flavor and visually stunning. Enjoy the process and the end result of this fantastic dish!

Variations for Prawn Fried Rice

• Protein options: Experiment with different protein options such as chicken, tofu, or even a combination of seafood for a unique twist on the classic prawn fried rice.
• Spice it up: Add a kick of heat by incorporating some red chili flakes or diced fresh chili peppers to the stir-fry for a spicy version of prawn fried rice.
• Nutty addition: For an extra crunch and a nutty flavor, consider adding some cashews or peanuts to the dish for a delightful texture.
• Tropical twist: Incorporate some diced pineapple or mango to the mix for a tropical flair and a hint of sweetness in the prawn fried rice.
• Herbs and aromatics: Enhance the flavor profile by adding some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or mint to bring a burst of freshness to the dish.
• Vegetarian option: For a vegetarian twist, omit the prawns and replace them with additional mixed vegetables or add some meat substitute like seitan or tempeh for a meaty texture.

How to Store Prawn Fried Rice

Storing Leftover Rice:

• Store any leftover prawn fried rice in an airtight container and refrigerate it within 2 hours of cooking.
• Ensure the rice is cooled down completely before storing it to prevent bacterial growth.
• When reheating, add a few drops of water to the rice and microwave it to maintain its moisture.

Preserving Prawns:

• If you have leftover cooked prawns, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• For raw prawns, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out, and store them in the coldest part of the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Maintaining Freshness of Vegetables:

• Store chopped mixed vegetables in an airtight container or resealable plastic bags in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• If you have any leftover mixed capsicums, wrap them in a damp paper towel and place them in a resealable plastic bag before storing them in the refrigerator.

Preservation of Cooked Rice:

• If you plan to keep the prawn fried rice for a longer period, consider freezing it in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
• When reheating frozen rice, add a splash of water and microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, to prevent it from drying out.

Importance of Proper Storage:

• Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the freshness and flavor of the prawn fried rice.
• It helps in preventing food waste and ensures that the ingredients remain safe to consume.

Tips for Reheating:

• When reheating prawn fried rice, add a little bit of water or broth to the dish to maintain its moisture.
• Reheat the rice in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to distribute the heat evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen prawns for the fried rice?

• Yes, you can use frozen prawns for the fried rice. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?

• Yes, you can use other types of rice like jasmine or long-grain rice. Just adjust the cooking time and water ratio according to the specific type of rice you choose.

Can I add extra vegetables to the fried rice?

• Absolutely! Feel free to customize the vegetable mix by adding or substituting with your favorite vegetables. Just make sure to chop them into small, uniform pieces for even cooking.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to the prawn fried rice?

• Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of fried rice by omitting the prawns and using tofu or extra vegetables as a substitute. The cooking process remains the same.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

• If you prefer spicier fried rice, you can add a dash of hot sauce or finely chopped chilies during the cooking process. Adjust the spice level according to your taste preference.

Can I prepare the prawn fried rice in advance?

• While the fried rice tastes best when served fresh, you can make the preparation process easier by cooking the rice and marinating the prawns ahead of time. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook the fried rice.

Recipe Card

Prawn Fried Rice

Prawn Fried Rice 2017-03-05 08:22:00

Serving Size: 2-3

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked basmati rice
• 150 grams medium sized cleaned and de-veined prawns
• 1 tsp light soy sauce
• 1/4 tsp pepper powder
• 2 tsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, green peas and sweet corn)
• 1/4 cup chopped mixed capsicums
• 1 tbsp finely chopped garlic
• 2 tbsp chopped spring onions (green and white separated)
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tsp light soy sauce
• 1 tsp white or black pepper powder
• 1/2 tsp white vinegar
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

• Marinate prawns with soy sauce and pepper powder, and mix well until well combined, set aside for 10 mins.
• While cooking the rice, add salt as needed and 1 tsp of lemon juice and 1 tsp of oil. Rice should be separated and fluffy.
• Spread the rice on a plate and cool down completely. You can also use the leftover rice.
• Heat a small pan with 2 tsp of olive oil. When the oil heats, add the marinated prawns and stir-fry for 3 minutes or until cooked and keep it aside.
• Then heat a wide pan over high heat, add olive oil.
• When the oil heats, add chopped garlic and stir well till the aroma comes or it turns into light golden brown.
• Also add spring onion whites and stir well.
• Now add mixed vegetables and fry till they are almost cooked, but crunchy.
• Then add capsicum and give a quick stir.
• Turn the heat to medium, make a well in the center of the vegetables and pour the lightly beaten egg in it.
• When the bottom starts to set, scramble the egg, then stir through the vegetables.
• Again turn the heat to high, add pepper powder (1/2 tsp only), salt and soy sauce and give a quick stir.
• Then add the cooked prawns and saute well.
• At this stage, add rice and mix well for 1 or 2 mins.
• Then add vinegar and 1/2 tsp of pepper powder and mix well for one minute or until well combined.
• Check the salt, if needed.
• Finally, garnish prawn fried rice with spring onion greens and switch off the heat and serve hot. Enjoy!

By Santhi Therese The Indian Claypot