1. Ingredients
- Fresh tiger prawns: 400 grams
- Fresh coconut: 1 piece
- Lemongrass: 2 stalks
- Purple onions: 3 bulbs
- Seasoning powder: 1 teaspoon
- Rock salt: 1 tablespoon
- White sugar: 1 tablespoon
- MSG: ¼ tablespoon
- Ground pepper: ½ tablespoon
- Fresh chili: 5 pieces
- Lime juice: 2 tablespoons
- Accompanying raw vegetables: Mixed greens, herbs, garlic, cucumber, tomatoes.
2. Essential tools
Cooking stove, Steamer pot, Plate, Knife, Cutting board, etc.
3. Step-by-step guide on how to make coconut-infused steamed shrimp
Step 1: Clean the shrimp
After purchasing the shrimp, wash them thoroughly, trim the shrimp whiskers slightly. Then, remove the dark vein on the back and let it drain.
Step 2: Prep other ingredients
Collect and rinse the raw vegetables, letting them drain. Cut the lemongrass into segments, gently crush. Peel and crush the purple onions. Crack open the coconut and pour the coconut water into a separate bowl.
Step 3: Marinate the shrimp
Place the shrimp in a bowl, marinate with lemongrass, purple onions, 1 teaspoon of seasoning powder, and fresh coconut water for about 15 minutes.
Step 4: Steam the shrimp
Place the shrimp in the steamer and steam for about 5-7 minutes. When the shrimp shells turn a reddish-orange color and the shrimp contracts, turn off the heat.
Step 5: Garnish the dish
Arrange the steamed shrimp on a plate or evenly around the coconut. Add assorted vegetables around the plate. You can pour the steamed shrimp coconut water into the coconut for a visually appealing presentation.
Prepare an additional dipping sauce: 1 tablespoon salt, 1 tablespoon sugar, ½ teaspoon ground pepper, ¼ teaspoon MSG, fresh chili, and 2 tablespoons lime juice mixed well.
4. Finished Dish
Enjoy the delightful flavor of coconut-steamed shrimp, featuring sweet and succulent shrimp with a hint of lemongrass aroma. The rich coconut-infused broth adds depth, perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
5. Tips for choosing quality shrimp
As a savvy homemaker, consider these tips for selecting the finest shrimp:
Opt for shrimp with translucent shells, and always choose those that are lively and hopping.
Avoid slimy or soft-textured shrimp when touched.
Fresh shrimp have firm heads attached to the body, a slightly curved body, and firm meat. The tails should be neatly tucked, not flared or limp. Check that the legs are colorful, not turning dark, and are firm.
For a more enticing dish, choose large tiger shrimp with abundant and firm meat.
There you have it, a simple recipe for delicious coconut-steamed shrimp. Give it a try in your kitchen, and may your culinary adventure be a success!