Steamed Prawns with Garlic (Small Size)

AI Gourmet Analysis

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Overview of Steamed Prawns with Garlic

Steamed Prawns with Garlic is a popular steamed prawn dish widely enjoyed in various parts of Southeast Asia, particularly in Chinese cuisine. It is especially prevalent along the southern coasts of China, Hong Kong, and Chinese diaspora communities across Southeast Asia. The hallmark of this dish lies in placing an ample amount of minced garlic and aromatic vegetables over fresh, plump prawns, then steaming them to draw out their rich flavors and aroma. Due to its use of readily available local ingredients and seasonings, along with a simple cooking method that accentuates the natural taste of the ingredients, this dish is a staple both at home and in restaurants.

Tradition and Evolution of the Dish

Garlic Steamed Prawns belongs to the “Qingzheng” (Ching Zheng) lineage of Cantonese steamed dishes. In China, it is commonly served on large platters at banquets or family gatherings and is regarded as a representative steamed seafood dish due to its simple recipe and short cooking time. Basic seasoning typically includes chopped garlic, sesame oil, scallions, and salt, but in some regions, fermented black soybeans (douchi), chili peppers, or a touch of rice wine might be added. In Davao, in the southern Philippines, it is also a staple in Chinese seafood restaurants, particularly in areas with large Chinese communities. Owing to the abundance of fresh prawns, the dish enjoys especially high popularity there.

Cooking Method and Features

For preparing steamed prawns, it is common to remove the vein and butterfly the prawns while leaving the shells on. Plenty of minced fresh garlic, scallions, and sometimes other aromatics are then spread over the opened prawns. These are quickly steamed over high heat to retain the prawns’ translucency and juicy texture, which is considered key. Just before serving, hot sesame oil or peanut oil may be drizzled to release extra fragrance. The combination of pungent garlic and the rich seafood broth exuded from the prawns pairs excellently with plain rice, and the dish is often served on bamboo or ceramic platters.

Serving Style in Davao

“Ahfat Seafoods Plaza” in Davao, Philippines, is located in an area with a substantial Chinese population and is renowned as one of the city’s leading seafood restaurants. In the Davao region, prawn farming (especially green tiger prawns and vannamei) is thriving, making fresh steamed seafood dishes very popular. Dishes are often served by weight or portion size (S, M, L), and there is a strong local culture of enjoying them with rice and other seafood creations such as crispy fish or shellfish dishes.

Health and Nutrition

Prawns are high in protein and low in fat, and when combined with healthful compounds such as allicin found in garlic, the dish is highly nutritious. However, it is recommended to be mindful of the high purine content characteristic of seafood and the salt content used during steaming. As the steaming process minimizes the use of oils, the dish is often highlighted as a healthy menu choice.

Related Dishes and Variations

Closely related Chinese dishes include “Steamed Scallops with Garlic” (蒜蓉蒸扇貝) and “Steamed Fish” (清蒸魚). Local adaptations in Southeast Asia sometimes feature the addition of chili for a spicy kick, or Filipino-style arrangements using sweet or coconut-based sauces. At home, other seafood such as crabs, mussels, and squid may be substituted, leading to a variety of regional and household variations.

Conclusion

Steamed Prawns with Garlic, while simple, is highly prized for maximizing the flavor and freshness of its ingredients. The taste subtly varies according to season and region, making it one of the beloved traditional dishes from Southeast Asia to the Chinese coastal areas.