Tiger prawns, also known as tôm sú in Vietnamese, are one of the most sought-after seafood delicacies in many cuisines around the world. With their firm texture and delicate flavor, they provide an excellent base for creating a variety of mouth-watering dishes. One of the standout preparations for tiger prawns is the famous Stir-Fried Tiger Prawns with Satay (Tôm Sú Xào Sa Tế). This dish combines the natural sweetness of the prawns with the bold, spicy, and aromatic flavors of satay sauce, making it a perfect choice for spice lovers and seafood enthusiasts alike.

In this article, we will explore the origins of stir-fried tiger prawns with satay, its key ingredients, the cooking techniques, and tips on how to prepare this delicious dish at home. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef looking to experiment with new flavors, this recipe is sure to impress.

The Origins of Satay and Its Use in Southeast Asian Cuisine

Satay is a popular dish that originates from Indonesia, but it has become a well-known culinary tradition in many Southeast Asian countries, including Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. Traditionally, satay refers to skewered meat, usually chicken, beef, or lamb, that is marinated in a spiced peanut sauce and then grilled or barbecued over an open flame. The rich, smoky flavor of the grilled meat, combined with the savory, slightly sweet peanut sauce, makes satay an irresistible treat.

The concept of satay, however, is not confined solely to grilled skewered meat. The term “satay” can also refer to the flavor profile—namely, the spices and seasonings used in the marinade or sauce. In many Southeast Asian countries, satay sauce is used as a dipping sauce or cooking ingredient in a wide variety of dishes, including stir-fries.

Stir-Fried Tiger Prawns with Satay (Tôm Sú Xào Sa Tế) is a delightful adaptation of the traditional satay concept, where the prawns are stir-fried in a flavorful satay sauce made from a blend of peanuts, chili, garlic, and spices. The result is a rich, savory dish that brings together the natural sweetness of the prawns with the spicy and aromatic notes of the satay.

Key Ingredients for Stir-Fried Tiger Prawns with Satay

The success of any dish depends on the quality and balance of its ingredients. For a flavorful stir-fried tiger prawn with satay, it is essential to use fresh, high-quality prawns and the right combination of ingredients for the satay sauce. Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that make this dish irresistible.

1. Tiger Prawns (Tôm Sú)

Tiger prawns are the star ingredient in this dish. These prawns are prized for their large size, firm texture, and sweet, delicate flavor. They are available in both fresh and frozen varieties, though fresh prawns will yield the best flavor and texture. When purchasing tiger prawns, look for those that have a firm, translucent flesh and a mild ocean scent. If using frozen prawns, ensure they have been properly thawed before cooking.

The prawns are usually peeled and deveined before cooking, although you can leave the shells on for added flavor if desired. The key is to cook the prawns quickly so they remain juicy and tender.

2. Satay Sauce

Satay sauce is the heart of this dish, providing a rich, spicy, and savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the prawns. A classic satay sauce is made from peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and chili paste. These ingredients work together to create a well-balanced sauce that is both spicy and slightly sweet, with a smooth texture.

In addition to the essential ingredients of peanut butter and soy sauce, satay sauce often includes spices such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander, which add depth and complexity to the flavor. The amount of chili paste or fresh chilies used can be adjusted based on your preference for heat. For a spicier dish, you can add more chili paste or fresh chopped chili peppers to the sauce.

3. Fresh Herbs and Aromatics

Fresh herbs such as cilantro and Thai basil add a burst of freshness to stir-fried tiger prawns with satay. These herbs help balance the richness of the sauce and provide a fragrant contrast to the savory flavors of the prawns and the satay sauce. Additionally, garlic and ginger are essential aromatics that add depth of flavor to the stir-fry, enhancing the overall taste profile of the dish.

4. Vegetables

While the primary focus of this dish is on the prawns and satay sauce, adding vegetables to the stir-fry brings in additional texture, color, and flavor. Common vegetables used in stir-fries with prawns include bell peppers, onions, and carrots. These vegetables not only enhance the dish’s visual appeal but also add a subtle sweetness and crunch that complements the tender prawns.

5. Cooking Oil

A neutral oil such as vegetable oil or canola oil is ideal for stir-frying. It allows the prawns and vegetables to cook quickly and evenly without overwhelming the flavors of the dish. A small amount of sesame oil can also be added at the end of the cooking process for extra fragrance and a hint of nuttiness.

How to Make Stir-Fried Tiger Prawns with Satay: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that we’ve covered the essential ingredients, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of making stir-fried tiger prawns with satay. This dish is quick to prepare and cook, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Clean the prawns: Peel and devein the tiger prawns. If you prefer, you can leave the shells on for extra flavor, but for easier eating, it is best to remove them.
• Prepare the vegetables: Slice the bell peppers, onions, and carrots into thin strips. Mince the garlic and ginger, and chop the cilantro or Thai basil for garnish.
• Make the satay sauce: In a small bowl, combine peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, chili paste, and spices. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more chili paste for heat or soy sauce for saltiness.

Step 2: Heat the Wok or Skillet

Place a large wok or skillet on medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil and allow it to heat up. Once the oil is hot, add the garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Cook the Prawns

Add the tiger prawns to the wok and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Stir frequently to ensure they cook evenly. Remove the prawns from the wok and set them aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same wok, add a little more oil if necessary. Add the sliced bell peppers, onions, and carrots. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. You want them to maintain their vibrant color and crunch.

Step 5: Add the Satay Sauce

Once the vegetables are cooked, return the prawns to the wok. Pour the prepared satay sauce over the prawns and vegetables. Stir everything together, making sure the prawns and vegetables are well-coated with the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to heat through and the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Once the prawns are coated with the satay sauce and the dish is heated through, remove the wok from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or Thai basil. These herbs will add a refreshing burst of flavor to balance the richness of the satay sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the stir-fried tiger prawns with satay immediately, accompanied by steamed jasmine rice or noodles. The fragrant, savory, and spicy flavors of the dish will pair perfectly with the rice, making it a satisfying and delicious meal.

Tips for Perfect Stir-Fried Tiger Prawns with Satay

• Use fresh prawns: The quality of your prawns will make a huge difference in the flavor and texture of the dish. Opt for fresh tiger prawns whenever possible, and ensure they are properly cleaned and deveined.
• Adjust the heat: If you’re not a fan of spicy food, reduce the amount of chili paste or fresh chilies in the satay sauce. You can also substitute mild chili sauce for a more gentle flavor.
• Add more vegetables: For a more substantial dish, consider adding additional vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or baby corn. This will also add more color and nutrition to the dish.
• Control the consistency of the sauce: If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of water or chicken broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken.

Conclusion

Stir-fried tiger prawns with satay (Tôm Sú Xào Sa Tế) is a bold, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings together the sweetness of prawns, the richness of satay sauce, and the crunch of fresh vegetables. Its combination of savory, spicy, and aromatic elements makes it a standout dish that is sure to impress anyone who loves seafood and bold flavors.

By following the simple steps outlined above, you can recreate this delicious dish at home, customizing it to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re preparing it for a special

occasion or a weeknight dinner, stir-fried tiger prawns with satay is a dish that is guaranteed to leave everyone craving more. So, gather your ingredients, heat up your wok, and enjoy this flavorful, mouth-watering treat!