Thai Style Prawn and Avocado Noodle Bowls Recipe

Dive into the vibrant and exquisite world of Thai cuisine with this Thai Style Prawn and Avocado Noodle Bowl. This recipe combines the creamy richness of avocado with the succulent flavours of prawns and a hint of spice, all wrapped up in a bowl of comforting soup. It's an easy and quick meal that is sure to impress your tastebuds.

Photos of Thai Style Prawn and Avocado Noodle Bowls Recipe

The ingredients list may include some items that are not commonly found in a typical Western kitchen. Kaffir lime leaves and lemongrass stalk, key ingredients for this recipe, can be found in the Asian section of most supermarkets. Also, remember to look for raw prawns in the seafood section, and rice vermicelli in the Asian or pasta/noodles aisle. Make sure you get a ripe avocado, which should yield slightly when gently squeezed.

Ingredients for Thai Style Prawn and Avocado Noodle Bowls

Prawns: A type of shellfish that's rich in protein. In this recipe, they are pan-fried and then added to the soup.

Coconut oil: Used for its fragrant aroma and health benefits. It’s used to pan-fry the prawns.

Bok choy: A type of Chinese cabbage that's high in vitamins A and C.

Spring onions: Also known as green onions, they add a mild, oniony flavour.

Kaffir lime leaves: The leaves of the kaffir lime tree are used in various Asian cuisines for their distinct, citrus-like flavor.

Lemongrass stalk: Provides a lemony flavor and is commonly used in Asian cooking.

Garlic: Used for its strong, pungent flavour.

Coriander leaves: Also known as cilantro, it adds a fresh, citrusy flavor.

Soy sauce: A condiment made from fermented soybeans, adding a salty, umami flavour.

Fish sauce: A salty condiment common in Southeast Asian cuisine, made from fermented fish. It gives a depth of flavor.

Rice vermicelli: Thin rice noodles that are used in many Asian dishes.

Avocado: A creamy fruit that is high in healthy fats, adds a rich and creamy texture.

Lime wedges: Used for their tangy juice, which enhances the other flavors.

Chilli flakes: Adds a bit of heat to the dish. Adjust the amount based on your preference.

One reader, Godfrey Wilkes says:

This Thai style prawn and avocado noodle bowl recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The creamy coconut milk, succulent prawns, and fresh avocado create a delightful harmony. It's a must-try for anyone who loves Thai cuisine. I highly recommend it!

Godfrey Wilkes

Key Techniques for Mastering Thai-Style Prawn and Avocado Noodle Bowls

Pan-frying the prawns: In a large pan, heat the coconut oil and pan-fry the prawns until they change in color and are just cooked through.

Preparing the soup base: In the same pan, bring the water and coconut milk to a boil, then lower the heat and reduce to a simmer. Add the bok choy, spring onions, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, and garlic, and cook until the bok choy has wilted.

Cooking the vermicelli: Prepare the rice vermicelli according to the package instructions, then divide it between 4 bowls.

Assembling the noodle bowls: Pour the prepared soup over the vermicelli in each bowl. Scatter the cooked prawns over the top, then add the avocado and coriander. Squeeze lime juice over the bowls, sprinkle with chili flakes, and serve.

How To Make Thai Style Prawn and Avocado Noodle Bowls

These noodle bowls come with a flavorful broth, seasoned prawns and creamy avocado for a more savory meal! Cook this up with just a few ingredients.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbfrozen raw prawns,no shells, deveined, defrosted
1tbspcoconut oil
2cupswater,with 1 tbsp vegetable stock powder, or 2 cups of any stock
2cupscoconut milk,reduced-fat, light
baby bok choy,2 bunches, cut into quarters
2spring onions,sliced
4Kaffir lime leaves
1lemongrass stalk,outer layer peeled, stalk halved
2garlic cloves,finely chopped
½cupcoriander leaves
1tbspsoy sauce
2tspfish sauce
7.5ozrice vermicelli,1 packet, ready-prepared
1avocado,chopped
lime wedges,to serve
½tspcrushed red chilli flakes,optional

Instructions

In a large pan, pan-fry the prawns in the coconut oil until they change in colour and are just cooked through.
Remove from pan and set aside.
In the same pan, bring the stock and coconut milk to boil, then lower the heat and reduce to a simmer.
Add the bok choy with the spring onions, kaffir leaves, lemongrass and garlic.
Cook for a couple of minutes until the bok choy has wilted.
Stir through the soy sauce, fish sauce and coriander.
Divide the prepared vermicelli between 4 bowls, then pour over the soup.
Scatter the avocado and coriander over the top, then season with lime juice.
Sprinkle with chilli flakes, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 624.64kcal
Fat: 36.50g
Saturated Fat: 25.80g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.48g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.72g
Carbohydrates: 55.27g
Fiber: 4.99g
Sugar: 0.89g
Protein: 22.86g
Cholesterol: 142.88mg
Sodium: 1224.56mg
Calcium: 127.70mg
Potassium: 751.97mg
Iron: 5.60mg
Vitamin A: 82.07µg
Vitamin C: 11.61mg

Expert Tip for Perfectly Cooked Prawns in Your Noodle Bowl

When cooking with lemongrass, it's important to bruise the stalk first to release its aromatic oils. You can do this by lightly crushing it with the back of your knife. This will enhance the flavor of the soup. Also, when pan-frying prawns, ensure not to overcook them as they can become tough and lose their succulent texture. They should turn a pink color and curl into a 'C' shape when perfectly cooked.

Time-Saving Hacks for Quick and Easy Noodle Bowls

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that can be cooked in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup time.

Batch cooking: Make larger portions and freeze the extra for future quick and easy meals.

Efficient tools: Use kitchen gadgets like food processors and mandolines to speed up prep work.

Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to work more efficiently.

Quick cooking methods: Utilize techniques like stir-frying and steaming for faster cooking times.

Time-saving ingredients: Choose pre-cut or pre-cooked items like canned beans or pre-chopped veggies to cut down on prep time.

Plan your meals: Create a weekly meal plan to streamline grocery shopping and meal preparation.

Substitute Ingredients For Thai Style Prawn and Avocado Noodle Bowls Recipe

frozen raw prawns - Substitute with shrimp: Shrimp can be used as a substitute for prawns in this recipe as they have a similar taste and texture, and are readily available in most grocery stores.
coconut oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute for coconut oil, as it has a neutral flavor and can be used for sautéing the ingredients.
coconut milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk can be used as a substitute for coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free option with a subtle nutty flavor.
baby bok choy - Substitute with spinach: Spinach can be used as a substitute for baby bok choy, providing a similar tender texture and mild, leafy green flavor.
kaffir lime leaves - Substitute with lime zest: Lime zest can be used as a substitute for kaffir lime leaves to add a citrusy aroma and flavor to the dish.
lemongrass stalk - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can be used as a substitute for lemongrass to add a citrusy, aromatic flavor to the dish.
coriander leaves - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can be used as a substitute for coriander leaves, providing a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the dish.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari, a gluten-free soy sauce, can be used as a substitute for soy sauce to maintain the umami flavor without gluten.
fish sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can be used as a substitute for fish sauce to provide a savory, umami flavor to the dish.
rice vermicelli - Substitute with soba noodles: Soba noodles can be used as a substitute for rice vermicelli, offering a similar thin, delicate texture and nutty flavor.
avocado - Substitute with mango: Mango can be used as a substitute for avocado, providing a sweet and creamy texture to complement the dish.
lime wedges - Substitute with lemon wedges: Lemon wedges can be used as a substitute for lime wedges to add a citrusy, tangy flavor to the dish.
crushed red chilli flakes - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha can be used as a substitute for crushed red chili flakes to add heat and a hint of garlic flavor to the dish.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Prawn and Avocado Noodle Bowl

Elevate the prawns: Arrange the cooked prawns in a visually appealing manner, ensuring they are the star of the dish. Place them delicately to showcase their succulence and freshness.
Garnish with avocado: Slice the avocado into elegant, thin wedges and artfully place them on top of the dish. The vibrant green color will provide a beautiful contrast to the other elements.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Introduce pops of color by adding fresh coriander leaves and lime wedges to the dish. This will enhance the visual appeal and freshness of the overall presentation.
Create a balanced composition: Ensure that the bok choy, vermicelli, and prawns are harmoniously arranged in the bowl, creating a visually balanced and inviting presentation.
Use fine dining plating techniques: Employ meticulous plating techniques, such as using tweezers to place delicate garnishes, to showcase attention to detail and precision in the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Thai-Style Noodle Bowls

Pan: A flat-bottomed utensil used for cooking, typically made of metal and equipped with a handle.
Large pot: A deep container with a wide opening, used for cooking food in liquid.
Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife with a broad, tapered shape, suitable for a variety of kitchen tasks.
Cutting board: A durable board on which to place material for cutting.
Tongs: A tool with two arms that are joined at one end, used for picking up and holding things.
Grater: A kitchen utensil with a surface of sharp-edged holes used for shredding food.
Strainer: A device having holes punched in it or made of crossed wires for separating solid matter from a liquid.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for stewing or boiling.
Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used to measure quantities of ingredients for cooking and baking.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil incorporating a bundle of wires fastened to a handle, used for whipping or beating food.
Ladle: A large long-handled spoon with a cup-shaped bowl, used for serving soup, stew, or sauce.
Spatula: A broad, flat, flexible blade used to mix, spread, and lift material.
Colander: A perforated bowl used to strain off liquid from food, especially after cooking.
Mortar and pestle: A pair of tools used to crush, grind, and mix substances.
Blender: An electric kitchen appliance used for mixing, puréeing, or emulsifying food and other substances.
Skewers: Long, thin metal or wood sticks used to hold pieces of food together.
Grill: A device for cooking food, usually fuelled by gas or charcoal, with a metal framework of parallel bars.
Oven: A thermally insulated chamber used for the heating, baking, or drying of a substance.
Food processor: An electric kitchen appliance used for chopping, mixing, or pureeing ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Tips for Thai-Style Prawn and Avocado Noodle Bowls

To store leftover thai style prawn and avocado noodle bowls, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
When storing, it's best to keep the prawns, noodles, and avocado separate from the broth to prevent the noodles from becoming soggy and the avocado from browning.
To reheat, place the noodles in a bowl and pour the broth over them. Microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through. Add the prawns and avocado just before serving.
If you want to freeze the dish, it's recommended to freeze the broth separately from the noodles, prawns, and avocado.
Allow the broth to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To freeze the prawns, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag. This method prevents the prawns from clumping together and makes it easier to portion out the amount you need.
When ready to enjoy the frozen thai style prawn and avocado noodle bowls, thaw the broth and prawns in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat the broth on the stovetop or in the microwave, cook the noodles according to package instructions, and add the thawed prawns and fresh avocado before serving.

How To Reheat Leftover Prawn and Avocado Noodle Bowls

To reheat leftover thai style prawn and avocado noodle bowls, start by separating the prawns, avocado, and any other toppings from the noodles and broth. This will prevent the toppings from becoming overcooked or mushy during the reheating process.
In a saucepan, gently reheat the broth over medium heat until it reaches a simmer. If the broth seems too thick, add a splash of water or coconut milk to thin it out.
Meanwhile, place the noodles in a microwave-safe bowl and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave the noodles in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until they are heated through and soft.
In a separate pan, quickly sauté the prawns over high heat with a small amount of coconut oil until they are just warmed through. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough and rubbery.
Once the broth, noodles, and prawns are heated, divide the noodles among serving bowls and pour the hot broth over them.
Top the bowls with the warmed prawns, fresh avocado slices, and any other desired toppings, such as spring onions, coriander leaves, or chilli flakes.
If you prefer, you can also reheat the entire dish in a single pot. Add the broth, noodles, and prawns to a large saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring gently, until everything is warmed through. Be mindful not to overcook the ingredients, particularly the prawns and avocado.
Alternatively, for a quicker reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place the noodles, broth, and prawns in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the dish is heated through. Add the avocado and fresh toppings after reheating.

Surprising Facts About the Origins of Thai-Style Noodle Bowls

The Thai style prawn and avocado noodle bowls recipe is a delicious fusion of flavors, combining the richness of coconut milk with the freshness of prawns and avocado. This dish offers a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors, creating a delightful culinary experience. The combination of ingredients such as kaffir lime leaves and lemongrass adds a unique and aromatic touch to the dish, enhancing its overall taste. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a satisfying and nourishing meal that is both comforting and exotic.

Budget-Friendly Tips for Making Thai-Style Prawn and Avocado Noodle Bowls at Home

This Thai-style prawn and avocado noodle bowl recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of frozen raw prawns and coconut milk may require a slightly higher initial investment, but the dish serves 4 people and offers a delightful culinary experience. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30. The overall verdict for this recipe is 8/10, considering the flavors, nutritional value, and the satisfaction it brings to the table.

Is This Thai-Style Prawn and Avocado Noodle Bowl Healthy?

This Thai-style prawn and avocado noodle bowl recipe is a nutritious and well-balanced meal. The dish incorporates several healthy ingredients, such as:

Prawns: A lean protein source rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health
Avocado: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals
Bok choy: A low-calorie, nutrient-dense vegetable high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants
Coconut milk: Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that may boost metabolism and support weight management
Lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and garlic: Offer unique flavors and potential health benefits due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

The dish relies on coconut milk and oil, which are high in saturated fats. While some saturated fat is acceptable in a balanced diet, consuming too much can increase the risk of heart disease.
The recipe calls for soy sauce and fish sauce, which can be high in sodium. Excessive sodium intake may lead to high blood pressure and other health issues.

To enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Use light coconut milk instead of regular to reduce the saturated fat content
Opt for reduced-sodium soy sauce or replace it with coconut aminos, a lower-sodium alternative
Increase the amount of bok choy or add other nutrient-dense vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms, to boost the fiber and vitamin content
Incorporate a small portion of whole grain noodles, such as brown rice vermicelli or soba noodles, to add more complex carbohydrates and fiber to the dish
Garnish with additional fresh herbs, like Thai basil or mint, to introduce more antioxidants and bright flavors without adding calories

By making these small adjustments, you can elevate the nutritional profile of this already tasty and satisfying meal, ensuring that it aligns with your health goals while still delivering on flavor.

Editor's Take: Why This Thai-Style Prawn and Avocado Noodle Bowl Recipe Stands Out

This Thai-style prawn and avocado noodle bowl recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of succulent prawns, creamy avocado, and fragrant coconut milk broth creates a harmonious balance. The use of aromatic herbs and spices such as lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and garlic adds depth to the dish. The addition of bok choy provides a refreshing crunch, while the rice vermicelli noodles soak up the rich and flavorful broth. Overall, this recipe offers a tantalizing blend of Thai-inspired ingredients that will surely impress your taste buds.

Enhance Your Thai Style Prawn and Avocado Noodle Bowls Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluff up some fragrant jasmine rice to serve alongside the flavorful Thai style prawn and avocado noodle bowls.

Cucumber Salad with Peanut Dressing: Whip up a refreshing cucumber salad with a zesty peanut dressing to complement the rich and spicy flavors of the noodle bowls.

Mango Sticky Rice: Indulge in a sweet and creamy mango sticky rice for a delightful dessert after enjoying the savory and aromatic noodle bowls.

Delicious Variations on the Classic Thai-Style Noodle Bowl

Spicy Shrimp Tacos: These spicy shrimp tacos are a perfect blend of heat and flavor, with a delicious avocado salsa to cool things down.

Coconut Curry Chicken: This creamy and aromatic coconut curry chicken is a comforting and satisfying dish that's perfect for a cozy night in.

Mango Sticky Rice: Indulge in the sweet and tropical flavors of this classic Thai dessert, made with ripe mango, sticky rice, and coconut milk.

Tom Yum Soup: Warm up with a bowl of this tangy and spicy Thai tom yum soup, filled with fragrant herbs, tender shrimp, and mushrooms.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Thai-Style Noodle Bowl

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Indulge in the crispy goodness of these coconut shrimp, coated in a light and crunchy breading with a hint of tropical coconut flavor. Pair with a zesty dipping sauce for a delightful start to your dining experience.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and decadent texture will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Berry Parfait: Layered with creamy yogurt, fresh berries, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. It's a light and refreshing dessert option for any occasion.

Why trust this Thai Style Prawn and Avocado Noodle Bowls Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors, combining succulent prawns with creamy avocado and fragrant Thai spices. The use of coconut milk and aromatic herbs such as lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves ensures an authentic and tantalizing taste experience. The inclusion of rice vermicelli provides a light and satisfying base, while the addition of bok choy offers a nutritious crunch. With the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and fresh elements, this dish promises to elevate your culinary repertoire and transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Thailand.

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FAQ:

What type of prawns should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of prawns for this recipe, but I recommend using large, raw prawns for the best flavor and texture.

Can I use fresh prawns instead of frozen ones?

Yes, you can absolutely use fresh prawns if they are available. Just make sure they are raw and deveined before using them in the recipe.

Is there a substitute for kaffir lime leaves if I can't find them?

If you can't find kaffir lime leaves, you can substitute them with a combination of lime zest and bay leaves to mimic their citrusy and floral flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the soup is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the broth and cook the prawns ahead of time. When ready to serve, simply reheat the broth and assemble the noodle bowls.

How can I adjust the spiciness level of the dish?

If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce or omit the crushed red chili flakes. For a spicier kick, you can increase the amount according to your preference.