Spice up your weekday meals with a one-pan spicy prawns and rice recipe. Bursting with flavor from chorizo, prawns, and a combination of spices, this dish is a feast for the taste buds and a delight to prepare. A perfect balance of protein, carbs, and heat, it's a meal that's sure to impress!
Photos of One-Pan Spicy Prawns and Rice Recipe
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonplace, but there might be a couple that you need to look out for at the supermarket. Chorizo, a type of Spanish sausage, is known for its distinctive smoky flavor that enriches the dish. If you can't find it, you can substitute with other spicy sausages. Turmeric, a golden spice often used in curries, lends a vibrant color to the rice and has an earthy, slightly bitter taste.
Ingredients for One-Pan Spicy Prawns and Rice
Onion: This vegetable adds a sweet and slightly spicy flavor to the dish.
Garlic: Its strong, pungent flavor complements the spiciness of the dish.
Red chili: It adds a spicy kick to the dish.
Red pepper: This vegetable adds a sweet and slightly bitter flavor.
Chorizo: This Spanish sausage adds a smoky flavor to the dish.
Turmeric: It gives the rice a vibrant color and adds an earthy taste.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the dish.
Pepper: Adds a mild heat and complexity to the dish.
Long grain rice: This type of rice stays fluffy and does not stick together, perfect for this dish.
Water: It is used to cook the rice.
Pea: Adds a sweet and slightly nutty flavor.
Prawn: The star ingredient, prawns add a rich, sweet, and slightly briny flavor to the dish.
One reader, Kevin Wooldridge says:
This one-pan spicy prawns and rice recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are a perfect blend of spicy and savory, and it's so easy to make. The prawns are juicy, and the rice is perfectly cooked. It's become a family favorite in our house. Highly recommend trying it out!
Essential Techniques for Mastering This One-Pan Recipe
How to fry the onions, garlic, chili, and red pepper: In a pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, chili, and red pepper and cook until they are softened and fragrant.
How to add the chorizo: After the onions, garlic, chili, and red pepper have cooked for a minute, add the chorizo to the pan and cook until it starts to release its flavorful oils.
How to stir in the turmeric, salt, pepper, and long grain rice: Once the chorizo is cooked, stir in the turmeric, salt, and pepper, then add the long grain rice to the pan. Mix everything together until the rice is well coated with the flavorful ingredients.
How to pour in the water and simmer: Pour the water into the pan with the rice and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
How to stir in the peas and prawns: Once the rice is cooked, stir in the peas and prawns. Cook and stir until the prawns turn pink and are no longer translucent, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes.
How To Make One-Pan Spicy Prawns
What better food pairing could there be with big juicy and spicy prawns and a steaming bowl of rice. Make them together in this one-pot recipe.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1onion
- 3clovesgarlic
- 1red chili
- 1red pepper,diced
- ¼lbchorizo
- ½tspturmeric
- 1tspsalt
- ½tsppepper
- 1¼cupslong grain rice
- 1¾cupswater
- ⅔cuppea
- ⅓lbprawn
Instructions
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Fry the onions, garlic, chilli, and red pepper with a little olive oil.
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Add the chorizo after a minute.
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Stir in the turmeric, salt, pepper, and long grain rice.
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Pour in the water and simmer for 20 minutes.
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Stir in the peas and prawns until prawns are pink and no longer translucent, about 3 tp 4 minutes.
Nutrition
- Calories: 414.06kcal
- Fat: 11.87g
- Saturated Fat: 4.33g
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.42g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.28g
- Carbohydrates: 56.63g
- Fiber: 3.42g
- Sugar: 4.11g
- Protein: 18.29g
- Cholesterol: 72.57mg
- Sodium: 737.94mg
- Calcium: 63.87mg
- Potassium: 415.72mg
- Iron: 1.84mg
- Vitamin A: 77.12µg
- Vitamin C: 51.36mg
Expert Tip for Perfectly Cooked Prawns Every Time
When adding the prawns, ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the pan. This allows them to cook evenly and prevents overcooking, which can make them tough and chewy. Also, remember to stir the dish gently after adding the prawns to avoid breaking them apart.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Delicious Meal
Plan ahead: Pre-chop and measure all ingredients before starting to cook. This will help streamline the cooking process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.
Use pre-cooked ingredients: Consider using pre-cooked prawns and pre-cooked chorizo to cut down on cooking time and simplify the recipe.
Multi-task: While the rice is simmering, use that time to prepare the prawns and other ingredients to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to avoid wasting time searching for utensils or ingredients.
Substitute Ingredients For One-Pan Spicy Prawns and Rice Recipe
- onion - Substitute with shallot: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, which can add a subtle sweetness to the dish.
- garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor without the need for chopping or mincing.
- red chili - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: Crushed red pepper flakes can add heat and spice similar to red chilies, but in a dried form.
- red pepper - Substitute with yellow pepper: Yellow peppers have a similar sweet flavor and crunchy texture, adding a pop of color and taste to the dish.
- chorizo - Substitute with andouille sausage: Andouille sausage can provide a similar smoky and spicy flavor to the dish, complementing the prawns and rice.
- turmeric - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can add a warm, earthy flavor and a reddish color to the dish, similar to turmeric.
- long grain rice - Substitute with jasmine rice: Jasmine rice has a fragrant aroma and a slightly sticky texture when cooked, which can work well in this dish.
- pea - Substitute with edamame: Edamame can provide a similar pop of green color and a slightly nutty flavor to the dish.
- prawn - Substitute with shrimp: Shrimp can be used as a substitute for prawns, offering a similar sweet and delicate flavor.
Elevate Your Dinner Party With This Stunning Presentation
Elevate the dish with a stunning presentation: When plating the one-pan spicy prawns and rice, focus on creating a visually appealing presentation. Use fresh herbs and edible flowers to add color and vibrancy to the dish. Arrange the prawns and rice in an artful manner, and consider incorporating decorative elements such as microgreens for an elegant touch.
Emphasize precision in plating: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Ensure that the prawns are positioned prominently and that the rice forms a visually appealing base. Use tweezers to delicately position garnishes and create a polished, refined look.
Incorporate artistic sauce drizzles: Elevate the dish by incorporating artistic sauce drizzles on the plate. Use a squeeze bottle to create intricate patterns with a vibrant sauce, adding both flavor and visual interest to the presentation. Consider using a contrasting color to make the dish visually striking.
Utilize elegant serving vessels: Choose sophisticated and stylish serving vessels to complement the one-pan spicy prawns and rice. Opt for ceramic plates or slate platters to showcase the dish beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience for the culinary professionals.
Highlight attention to detail: Showcase your attention to detail by meticulously wiping the plate edges to ensure a clean presentation. Pay close attention to any smudges or spills, as a pristine plate enhances the overall visual appeal of the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Spicy Prawns and Rice
- Frying pan: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for slicing, dicing, and chopping various ingredients.
- Cutting board: A durable board used as a surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: A wooden utensil used for stirring, mixing, and tasting dishes.
- Measuring cups: Used for accurately measuring dry and liquid ingredients.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and a lid, used for making sauces and boiling liquids.
- Grater: A kitchen tool used for grating cheese, vegetables, and other ingredients.
- Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for flipping, lifting, and spreading ingredients.
- Garlic press: A tool used for crushing and mincing garlic cloves.
- Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting hot items.
Storing and Freezing Guide for Spicy Prawns and Rice
- Let the one-pan spicy prawns and rice cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled dish into an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- If you plan to freeze the dish, follow these steps:
- Divide the cooled one-pan spicy prawns and rice into portion-sized freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, where they will keep well for up to 2 months.
- To reheat the refrigerated leftovers, simply microwave the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
- For frozen portions, you can either thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it directly from frozen:
- If thawed, transfer the contents to a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- If reheating from frozen, place the frozen portion in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high power, stirring every 2-3 minutes until the dish is heated through. You may need to add a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out during the reheating process.
How To Reheat Leftover Spicy Prawns and Rice
Reheat the one-pan spicy prawns and rice in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to help moisten the rice and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until the dish is heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
For a quick and easy method, transfer the leftover one-pan spicy prawns and rice to a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the dish is heated through.
If you prefer a crispy texture, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover one-pan spicy prawns and rice in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the dish is heated through. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of reheating to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
For a flavorful twist, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the leftover one-pan spicy prawns and rice and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the dish is heated through and slightly crispy. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the one-pan spicy prawns and rice. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftovers in the air fryer basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the dish is heated through and slightly crispy.
Surprising Facts About the Origins of This Flavorful Recipe
Prawns are a great source of high-quality protein and are low in fat, making them a healthy and delicious addition to this spicy one-pan dish.
Budget-Friendly Cooking: Is This One-Pan Meal Economical?
This spicy prawns and rice recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as rice, peas, and chorizo, are affordable and readily available. The addition of prawns may slightly increase the cost, but it's balanced by the other economical components. The dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying meal. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, depending on the local prices of the ingredients.
Is This Spicy Prawn and Rice Dish Healthy?
This one-pan spicy prawns and rice recipe has both healthy and unhealthy elements. Let's break it down:
Healthy aspects:
- The recipe includes nutritious ingredients like onion, garlic, red chili, and red pepper, which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
- Prawns are a lean protein source, low in calories and high in beneficial nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids
- Peas add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the dish
Unhealthy aspects:
- Chorizo is a processed meat high in saturated fat and sodium, which can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure when consumed in excess
- The recipe calls for added salt, which may not be necessary given the naturally salty chorizo
- The type of oil used for frying is not specified; using a less healthy option like vegetable oil could add unhealthy fats to the dish
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following tweaks:
- Swap the chorizo for a leaner protein like chicken or tofu, or use a smaller amount of chorizo to reduce the saturated fat and sodium content
- Use a healthy cooking oil like olive oil or avocado oil for frying
- Reduce the added salt, as the chorizo and prawns will provide natural saltiness
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish, such as adding more red pepper or stirring in some spinach or kale at the end for an extra nutrient boost
- Opt for brown rice instead of white rice to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates
- Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to add flavor without extra calories or sodium
Why Our Editor Can't Get Enough of This Spicy Prawn Dish
This one-pan spicy prawns and rice recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The chorizo adds a rich, smoky depth, while the red chili brings a satisfying heat. The prawns are perfectly cooked and the peas add a pop of freshness. The simplicity of cooking everything in one pan makes it a convenient and satisfying dish for any occasion. The aromatic blend of garlic, turmeric, and onions infuses the rice with a beautiful golden hue and a fragrant aroma. This dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and easy preparation.
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Why trust this One-Pan Spicy Prawns and Rice Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying meal experience. The combination of chorizo and succulent prawns infuses the dish with rich, savory notes, while the vibrant red chili and turmeric add a tantalizing kick. The inclusion of peas introduces a pop of freshness, complementing the hearty long grain rice perfectly. With the careful balance of aromatic garlic and onion, this one-pan dish promises a harmonious blend of ingredients, creating a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Trust in this recipe for a memorable and flavorful dining experience.
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