This is a very special family recipe that uses some of the best local ingredients but is not a classic Sri Lankan dish. It’s definitely a fusion of flavors, with soy sauce and lemongrass. Of course, the star here is the uniquely Sri Lankan kithul jaggery, which lends deep caramel notes, while the spices and aromatics keep it moreishly savoury.
Jaggery Prawns
Ingredients
Basic Ingredients
- Prawns, cleaned and deveined: 500g
- Grated jaggery: 1⁄4 cup
- Dark soy sauce: 3 tbsp
- Garlic, chopped: 3-4 cloves
- Ginger, chopped: 1 tbsp
- Lemongrass, bruised: 4-5 stalks
- Onion, sliced: 1 medium
- Chili flakes: 2 tbsp
- A squeeze of lime juice
- Salt, as needed
Marinade:
- Cumin powder: 1 tsp
- Raw curry powder: 1 tsp
- Chili powder: 1 tsp
- Turmeric: ½ tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
Garnish:
- Fresh red chilies, sliced
- Fresh coriander leaves
Method:
- Marinate the Prawns: In a bowl, combine the prawns with cumin powder, curry powder, chili powder, turmeric, and salt. Let the prawns marinate for at least 1 hour.
- Sear the Prawns: Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated prawns on each side until they are just colored but not fully cooked. Remove the prawns from the pan and set them aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Using the same pan, sauté the garlic, ginger, onions, and lemongrass until fragrant. Add the soy sauce, jaggery, and chili flakes. Stir well and cook for 2 minutes until the jaggery melts.
- Cook the Prawns: Return the prawns to the pan and mix them into the sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes or until the prawns are cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and sliced red chilies. Serve hot and enjoy!
Watch this recipe here – Jaggery Prawns
Erasha Hettige is a passionate culinary consultant, digital creator, private chef, and food stylist. Her culinary journey, which started as a photo journal of her food adventures with her kids, reflects her commitment to sharing flavour-packed and thoughtfully crafted dishes. She offers hands-on cooking workshops and intimate private dining events in Sri Lanka, providing personalized experiences that celebrate the art of cooking and modern Sri Lankan dining.
Translations and detailed descriptions are provided to give a better understanding of the story to people from different cultural backgrounds across the globe.