Can I make my own sambal belacan?
Yes, you can! It typically involves pounding fresh chilies, belacan (toasted shrimp paste), shallots, and lime juice.
DINNER
Malaysian Stir-fried Prawns with Sambal Belacan
This vibrant Malaysian dish features succulent prawns stir-fried in a fiery, aromatic sambal belacan. It's a quick and flavorful dinner that brings the authentic taste of Malaysian cuisine to your table.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
Pat the peeled and deveined prawns dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better.
02
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
03
Add the minced garlic and sliced red onion to the hot oil. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
04
Add the sambal belacan to the wok. Stir-fry for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sambal to become aromatic.
05
Add the prawns to the wok. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the prawns turn pink and opaque, ensuring they are cooked through.
06
Stir in the lime juice, sugar, and salt. Toss everything together for 30 seconds to coat the prawns evenly.
07
Remove from heat and serve immediately.
About This Recipe
This vibrant Malaysian dish features succulent prawns stir-fried in a fiery, aromatic sambal belacan. It's a quick and flavorful dinner that brings the authentic taste of Malaysian cuisine to your table.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For extra heat, add a few thinly sliced bird's eye chilies along with the sambal. Adjust sugar and lime juice to balance the spice to your preference. Do not overcook the prawns, as they can become rubbery quickly.
Easy Substitutions
If fresh prawns are unavailable, frozen prawns can be used; ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of sambal belacan or use a less spicy variety. Chicken or firm tofu can be substituted for prawns.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Malaysian Stir-fried Prawns with Sambal Belacan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these flavorful prawns with a generous portion of steamed white rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of blanched kangkung (water spinach) or cucumber slices provides a refreshing contrast. For a more complete meal, add a fried egg on top.
Common Mistakes
1. Overcooking the prawns: Prawns cook very quickly; remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque to avoid a rubbery texture. 2. Not patting prawns dry: Excess moisture prevents a good sear and can make the dish watery. 3. Using too little oil: Ensure enough oil is used to properly stir-fry the ingredients and prevent sticking. 4. Not allowing sambal to cook: Briefly stir-frying the sambal helps to deepen its flavor and aroma.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don't like spicy food?
You can reduce the amount of sambal belacan or choose a milder brand. You can also add a touch more sugar to balance the heat.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, green beans, or snap peas would be excellent additions. Add them after the garlic and onion, stir-frying until tender-crisp before adding the sambal.
MORE TO KNOW
Sambal belacan is a cornerstone of Malaysian cuisine, a spicy chili paste made with fermented shrimp paste (belacan), chilies, and other aromatics. Its unique umami depth is what truly defines this dish. When stir-frying, ensure your wok is very hot to achieve a good sear on the prawns without overcooking them. The quick cooking time is key to tender, juicy prawns.
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