Indulge in a culinary masterpiece with Garlic-infused Steamed Tiger Prawns with Vermicelli. Tender tiger prawns, delicately prepared and bathed in a savory garlic sauce, rest atop a bed of soft Chinese vermicelli. The dish’s aroma is an irresistible invitation to the table, where each bite offers a harmonious blend of succulent seafood and aromatic flavors. Garnished with crisp spring onions and fried garlic, this dish promises a symphony of taste and texture that will delight the senses and leave a lasting impression.

WHAT IS GLASS NOODLES?

Glass noodles, also known as cellophane noodles, bean thread noodles, or vermicelli, are a type of transparent noodle made from starch such as mung bean starch, potato starch, sweet potato starch, tapioca, or canna starch. They are called “glass” noodles because of their translucent appearance when cooked.

These noodles are thin, long, and thread-like in appearance, and they have a slightly chewy texture when cooked. They are commonly used in Asian cuisine, particularly in dishes from China, Korea, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Glass noodles are versatile and can be used in soups, stir-fries, salads, spring rolls, and hot pots. They absorb the flavors of the ingredients they are cooked with, making them suitable for a wide range of dishes. Additionally, they are gluten-free, making them a popular choice for individuals with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.

Overall, glass noodles add a unique texture and visual appeal to dishes and are a staple ingredient in many Asian cuisines.

INGREDIENTS AND SUBSTITUTES

Ingredient quantities please refer to the recipes card (Click here)!

• Tiger Prawns: These are large, flavorful prawns with distinctive stripes on their shells. If tiger prawns are not available, you can substitute them with other large prawns or shrimp varieties such as jumbo shrimp or king prawns. Just ensure they are fresh and deveined for best results.
• Glass Noodles: Also known as mung bean vermicelli or bean thread noodles, these are thin, transparent noodles made from mung bean starch or other starches like potato or sweet potato. If Chinese vermicelli is not available, you can substitute it with rice vermicelli or rice noodles, which are commonly used in Asian cuisine. They have a similar texture and will work well in the dish.
• Garlic: This aromatic ingredient adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish. If you’re not a fan of garlic or prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of garlic used or omit it altogether. Alternatively, you can use garlic powder as a substitute, but adjust the quantity according to your taste preference as it is more concentrated than fresh garlic.
• Vegetable Oil: This is used for frying the garlic and adding moisture to the dish. You can substitute vegetable oil with other neutral oils such as canola oil, sunflower oil, or grapeseed oil. Alternatively, you can use olive oil for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Salt and White Pepper: These seasonings add depth of flavor and a hint of heat to the dish. If you don’t have white pepper, you can substitute it with black pepper. Adjust the amount of salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
• Water: This is used to create the sauce for the dish. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can substitute water with chicken or vegetable broth. This will add more depth of flavor to the dish.
• Light Soy Sauce: This adds savory umami flavor and a hint of saltiness to the dish. If you don’t have light soy sauce, you can substitute it with regular soy sauce or tamari sauce. Just be mindful that regular soy sauce is slightly saltier, so you may need to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
• Oyster Sauce: This sauce adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish. If you don’t have oyster sauce or prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute it with vegetarian oyster sauce or hoisin sauce. Adjust the sweetness and saltiness of the dish accordingly.
• Rice Wine: This adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish. If you don’t have rice wine, you can substitute it with dry sherry or mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine). Alternatively, you can omit it altogether if you prefer not to use alcohol.
• Sugar: This is added to balance the flavors of the dish and add a touch of sweetness. If you prefer not to use sugar, you can substitute it with honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
• Spring Onion: This is used as a garnish to add color and a fresh, mild onion flavor to the dish. If you don’t have spring onion, you can substitute it with finely chopped chives or cilantro for a different flavor profile.

RECIPES TIPS

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh tiger prawns and high-quality Chinese vermicelli to ensure the best flavor and texture in your dish.
• Prepare Prawns Properly: Trim the prawns by removing the top, whiskers, and legs. Make a slit in the middle to devein them and butterfly the prawns for even cooking and easy eating.
• Soak Vermicelli Correctly: Soak the Chinese vermicelli in warm water for the specified time (about 30 minutes) until they are soft and pliable. Drain them thoroughly before using to prevent excess water from diluting the sauce.
• Infuse Garlic Flavor: Frying the garlic until golden brown enhances its aroma and flavor. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Remove excess oil from the fried garlic to avoid overpowering the dish.
• Balance Seasonings: Adjust the amount of salt, white pepper, and other seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Taste the sauce before pouring it over the prawns to ensure it’s well-balanced.
• Proper Steaming: Arrange the prawns on top of the drained vermicelli and pour the garlic sauce evenly over them. Ensure the steamer tray and Varoma tray have clear ventilation holes to allow steam circulation for even cooking.
• Garnish Thoughtfully: Sprinkle chopped spring onions and reserved fried garlic over the prawns and vermicelli for added flavor and visual appeal. Garnishes not only enhance the dish’s appearance but also contribute to its overall taste.
• Serve Hot: Enjoy the Garlic-infused Steamed Tiger Prawns with Vermicelli hot, straight from the steamer. Mixing the vermicelli with the flavorful sauce ensures every bite is coated with delicious flavors.

STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Full recipes and Thermomix® instructions please refer to the recipes card (Click here)!

1. Prepare Ingredients:
   • Gather all the ingredients listed in the recipe: tiger prawns, Chinese vermicelli, garlic, vegetable oil, salt, white pepper, water, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice wine, sugar, and spring onion. Chop the garlic and set aside.
2. Soak Glass Noodles:
   • Place the noodles in a bowl and cover it with warm water. Let it soak for about 30 minutes until soft. Drain the vermicelli thoroughly and transfer it to a heatproof shallow bowl placed in a Varoma dish.
3. Prepare Prawns:
   • Trim the tiger prawns by removing the top, whiskers, and legs. Make a slit in the middle, remove the veins, and butterfly the prawns. Set them aside.
4. Infuse Garlic Flavor:
   • Heat a pan with oil over medium heat. Fry the reserved garlic until golden. Set aside 2 tbsp of fried garlic for garnishing later. To the pan, add salt, white pepper, water, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice wine, and sugar. Heat until the sugar is dissolved, then pour the sauce into a bowl and set aside.
5. Arrange Prawns and Vermicelli:
   • Arrange the butterfly prawns on top of the drained noodles in the bowl. Pour the garlic sauce evenly over the prawns.
6. Steam Prawns and Vermicelli:
   • Set up the steamer tray and place the bowl with prawns and vermicelli into the tray, ensuring clear ventilation holes. Cover the steamer tray with its lid and steam for 8 min or until prawns are pink and cooked through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Sprinkle chopped spring onions and reserved fried garlic over the steamed prawns and vermicelli for garnishing. Serve the dish hot, mixing the vermicelli until covered in sauce, and enjoy the delightful flavors.

WHAT ELSE TO SERVE WITH ?

Garlic-infused Steamed Tiger Prawns with Vermicelli is a flavorful dish that can be complemented with various side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some suggestions for what to serve alongside this dish:

• Steamed Vegetables: Pair the prawns and vermicelli with a side of steamed vegetables such as broccoli, bok choy, or snow peas. The light and fresh flavors of steamed vegetables contrast nicely with the rich and savory garlic-infused prawns.
• Stir-Fried Greens: Prepare a simple stir-fry of leafy greens like spinach, kale, or Chinese broccoli seasoned with garlic, soy sauce, and a splash of sesame oil. The vibrant colors and crisp textures of stir-fried greens complement the prawns and vermicelli beautifully.
• Fried Rice: Serve the prawns and vermicelli alongside a bowl of fragrant fried rice. You can use plain steamed rice or fried rice seasoned with vegetables, eggs, and your choice of protein for a satisfying and filling accompaniment.
• Fresh Salad: Balance the richness of the prawns with a refreshing side salad. Opt for a crisp and crunchy salad made with mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette dressing. The acidity and crunch of the salad provide a refreshing contrast to the garlicky prawns.
• Asian Pickles: Add a tangy and crunchy element to your meal with a side of Asian pickles such as pickled radishes, daikon, or kimchi. The pickled vegetables provide a burst of flavor and acidity that complements the savory prawns and vermicelli.
• Steamed Dumplings: Serve the prawns and vermicelli alongside steamed dumplings filled with pork, shrimp, or vegetables. The dumplings add variety and texture to the meal, and their savory fillings complement the flavors of the prawns.
• Fresh Fruit: Finish off the meal with a light and refreshing dessert of fresh fruit such as sliced pineapple, mango, or papaya. The natural sweetness of the fruit provides a satisfying end to the meal without being too heavy.

These side dish options offer a variety of flavors and textures that complement the Garlic-infused Steamed Tiger Prawns with Vermicelli, creating a delicious and well-balanced meal. Feel free to mix and match to suit your taste preferences and create a memorable dining experience.

MADE AHEAD INSTRUCTIONS

While Garlic-infused Steamed Tiger Prawns with Vermicelli is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare certain components ahead of time to streamline the cooking process. Here’s how to make ahead:

1. Prep the Ingredients: Trim and butterfly the tiger prawns and soak the Chinese vermicelli in warm water as instructed in the recipe. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator until ready to use. The prawns can be prepared up to a day in advance, while the vermicelli can be soaked a few hours ahead.
2. Prepare the Garlic Sauce: You can prepare the garlic sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Follow the recipe instructions to fry the garlic and prepare the sauce. Allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. When ready to cook, reheat the sauce in a saucepan until warmed through.
3. Steam the Vermicelli: If you’ve soaked the vermicelli ahead of time, drain it thoroughly and transfer it to a heatproof shallow bowl as instructed in the recipe. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until ready to steam. When ready to cook, proceed with arranging the prawns on top and pouring the garlic sauce over them before steaming.
4. Steam the Prawns: If you’ve arranged the prawns on top of the vermicelli ahead of time, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until ready to steam. When ready to cook, set up the steamer and steam the prawns and vermicelli as instructed in the recipe.

By preparing certain components ahead of time, you can save time on the day of serving while still enjoying the fresh flavors of the dish. Just be sure to store the ingredients properly in the refrigerator and reheat or steam them thoroughly before serving.

STORAGE & REHEATING

To store and reheat Garlic-infused Steamed Tiger Prawns with Vermicelli properly, follow these guidelines:

Storage:

• Allow any leftover prawns and vermicelli to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container or sealable food storage bag.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating:

• To reheat the dish, remove it from the refrigerator and transfer it to a microwave-safe dish or heatproof bowl.
• If the vermicelli has absorbed excess moisture, you can sprinkle a little water over it to prevent it from drying out during reheating.
• Cover the dish loosely with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap to prevent splattering.
• Reheat in the microwave on medium power (50-70%) in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can reheat the dish in a covered saucepan over low heat on the stovetop.
• Heat until the prawns are heated through and the vermicelli is piping hot.
• Once heated, remove from the microwave or stovetop and serve immediately.

Note:

• Avoid overcooking the prawns during reheating to prevent them from becoming tough and rubbery.
• It’s best to reheat only the portion you plan to consume to maintain the dish’s freshness and flavor.
• Discard any leftovers that have been sitting at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent foodborne illness.

RECIPES FAQS

Can I use frozen tiger prawns instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen tiger prawns for this recipe. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator before preparing. Ensure they are deveined and cleaned properly before cooking.

Can I substitute the Chinese vermicelli with other types of noodles?

While Chinese vermicelli works best for this recipe due to its delicate texture, you can substitute it with other types of noodles such as rice vermicelli or rice noodles. Just adjust the soaking time and cooking method accordingly.

I don’t have a Thermomix®. Can I still make this recipe?

Yes, you can still make this recipe without a Thermomix®. You can chop the garlic manually using a knife and use a regular steamer setup on your stovetop to steam the prawns and vermicelli.

Can I make the garlic sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before pouring it over the prawns and vermicelli.

Can I adjust the seasonings to suit my taste preferences?

Yes, feel free to adjust the seasonings such as salt, white pepper, soy sauce, and sugar according to your taste preferences. Taste the sauce before pouring it over the prawns to ensure it’s well-balanced.

How do I know when the prawns are cooked through?

The prawns are cooked through when they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking them, as they can become tough and rubbery. Use a fork to check for doneness – the flesh should be firm and opaque.

Can I garnish the dish with other ingredients besides spring onions and fried garlic?

Yes, you can garnish the dish with additional ingredients such as chopped cilantro, sliced red chili peppers, or toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, if you prefer a spicy kick, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers to the garlic sauce before pouring it over the prawns and vermicelli.

Can I adjust the portion size of the recipes?

You can adjust the recipe by clicking the serving size in the recipe in recipes card to your liking!
If you can find the exact portion that you like, you can, also, adjust this in manual mode. Make sure that the cooking times and temperatures have been adjusted for different quantities of ingredients. Even preparation time (such as for cutting) may be different than in the original recipe. Please do not pass the max line indicated inside of the mixing bowl. The capacity of the mixing bowl is 2.2 liters.

This recipes is compatible with which model of Thermomix®?

This recipes suitable for TM31 / TM5 / TM6

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