How long can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Can I make this dish ahead?

You can prepare the glaze and marinate the prawns a few hours ahead, but cook them right before serving for best taste.

What can I substitute for prawns?

You can use scallops or chunks of firm fish like monkfish.

Is there a non-spicy variation?

Omit the chili flakes for a milder version and adjust sugar to taste.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.

Citrus-Glazed Malaysian Tamarind Prawns with Lime Leaf

Name: Citrus-Glazed Malaysian Tamarind Prawns with Lime Leaf
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: Large prawns; Fresh lime juice; Fish sauce; Soy sauce; Tamarind paste; Palm sugar (or brown sugar); Water; Chili flakes; Lime leaves; Lemon zest; Garlic; Ginger; Vegetable oil; Sesame seeds; Fresh cilantro

A zesty, aromatic seafood delight

A vibrant and refreshing take on prawns, featuring a tangy tamarind glaze balanced with the fresh citrus notes of lime leaves, perfect for any special occasion or a delightful dinner treat.

1 h 30 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Prawns

Large prawns

1 lb, peeled and deveined

Fresh lime juice

2 tbsp

Fish sauce

2 tbsp

Soy sauce

1 tbsp

For the Tamarind Glaze

Tamarind paste

3 tbsp

Palm sugar (or brown sugar)

2 tbsp

Water

1/4 cup

Chili flakes

1 tsp (adjust to taste)

For the Citrus Marinade

Lime leaves

4 leaves, finely shredded

Lemon zest

1 tbsp

Garlic

2 cloves, minced

Ginger

1-inch piece, grated

For Finishing

Vegetable oil

2 tbsp

Sesame seeds

1 tbsp, toasted

Fresh cilantro

1 tbsp, chopped

Preparation

Marinating the Prawns

Prepare Marinade

Mix lime juice, fish sauce, and soy sauce in a bowl.

Use freshly squeezed citrus juices for the best flavor outcome.

Marinate Prawns

Add prawns to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Avoid over-marinating, as the citrus can "cook" the prawns. Reserve a small amount of marinade to brush on prawns during grilling.

Stir Occasionally

Stir the prawns occasionally to ensure even marinating.

Preparing the Tamarind Glaze

Combine Ingredients

Combine tamarind paste, palm sugar, water, and chili flakes in a saucepan.

Heat & Dissolve

Heat on low, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves.

Simmer

Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Cooking Process

Preheat & Grill Prawns

Preheat grill and lightly oil grill grate. Grill prawns for 2-3 minutes on each side.

Apply Glaze

Brush prawns with tamarind glaze during the last minute of grilling.

Finish & Garnish

Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and cilantro over cooked prawns before serving.

Plating & Serving