Prawns In Tomato Sauce

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Chinese

A flavorful seafood dish featuring tender prawns in a savory tomato sauce, complemented by fragrant leeks, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 kg prawns
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup cooking oil
  • 4 stalks leeks
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Snip the legs and tails of the prawns with kitchen scissors, then cut them into 1-inch diagonal pieces.
  2. Dredge the prawns in cornstarch and fry until crisp. Set aside.
  3. Saute the leeks in cooking oil along with the tomato sauce, water, sugar, and salt.
  4. Simmer the mixture until it thickens.
  5. Add the fried prawns to the sauce and simmer until the sauce is almost dry.

Tips & Substitutions

For a crispier texture, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the prawns. You can substitute the prawns with shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adding a splash of lemon juice can enhance the flavor of the dish. If you prefer a thicker sauce, consider incorporating a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water during the simmering process. Explore more seafood recipes for additional ideas.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the prawns in tomato sauce over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with Jade Green Broccoli Chinese-Style or a light salad for a refreshing contrast. Garnish with fresh herbs or sliced green onions for added flavor and presentation. This dish can also be served as an appetizer during family gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a pan over medium heat to avoid overcooking the prawns. You can also microwave it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Prawns In Tomato Sauce contains roughly 483 calories, with 4g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1794mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).

483 kcal 24% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.5g 7% DV
Total Fat 15.5g 20% DV
Carbs 84.4g 31% DV
Fiber 6.1g 22% DV
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 1793.5mg 78% DV
Potassium 321mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 7.1mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3.3mcg
Vitamin C 45.5mg 51% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 39.5mg 3% DV
Iron 1.1mg 6% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Shellfish

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?

Yes, frozen prawns can be used; just ensure they are completely thawed and drained before preparation. This helps achieve the desired texture when frying. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.

What can I substitute for tomato sauce?

If you don’t have tomato sauce, a mixture of crushed tomatoes and a pinch of sugar can work well. Alternatively, you can use marinara sauce for a different flavor profile. Adjust the seasoning to taste based on the substitute you choose.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers while sautéing the leeks. You can also drizzle some sriracha or chili sauce over the finished dish for an extra kick. Adjust the heat level according to your preference.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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