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Comforting Prawns in Coconut Milk

Comforting Prawns in Coconut Milk: A Taste of Home Happiness

Comforting Prawns in Coconut Milk is a warm, creamy dish that lifts spirits and satisfies the soul.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Filipino
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Broth
  • 1 thumb-sized piece Ginger Substitution: Galangal for a more complex flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Canola Oil Substitution: Vegetable oil or coconut oil for different flavors.
  • 2 fillets Anchovy Fillets (canned) Substitution: Fish sauce, but use sparingly.
  • 1 can Coconut Milk Substitution: Coconut cream for thicker texture or low-fat coconut milk for reduced calories.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust according to personal taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Note: Freshly ground is ideal for flavor.
For the Prawns
  • 1 pound Raw Prawns (or Jumbo Shrimp) Substitution: Cooked shrimp, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
  • 1 Serrano or Jalapeño Peppers Substitution: Bell pepper for milder flavor.
  • 3 medium Scallions Substitution: Chives if unavailable.
  • 1 medium Red Onions Substitution: Yellow onions for availability.
  • 1 cup Tomatoes Substitution: Canned tomatoes may work in a pinch.
  • 1 stalk Fresh Lemongrass Substitution: Lemon zest if unavailable.
For Garnish and Serving
  • 1 cup Greens (chile leaves/sweet potato greens/baby spinach) Substitution: Any tender leafy greens.
  • 2 cups Jasmine Rice Note: Any plain rice can serve as a substitute.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Comforting Prawns in Coconut Milk
  1. Begin by finely peeling and mincing a thumb-sized piece of ginger, then slice your chosen chilies for a touch of heat. Next, chop a handful of scallions and finely dice a red onion, ensuring the colors pop. Finally, grate the zest of a lime for that aromatic burst. Set all your prepped ingredients aside for easy access as you create your Ginataan Na Sugpo.
  2. Take a stalk of fresh lemongrass, trim the ends, and give it a gentle smash with a knife to release its oils. Tie the stalk into a neat bundle using kitchen twine; this technique infuses your broth with incredible flavor while making it easy to remove later. Set this aromatic bundle aside as you move on to the next step—creating the base for your comforting prawns.
  3. In a Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the lemongrass bundle, minced ginger, sliced chilies, chopped scallions, and diced red onion, stirring well. Sauté these ingredients for 8-10 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and the mixture fragrant. This step builds the flavorful foundation for your Ginataan Na Sugpo.
  4. Once the aromatics are ready, add in one diced fresh tomato to the pot. Stir and let cook for another 8-10 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften completely and mingle their sweetness into the mix. The onions should start caramelizing slightly, contributing to the overall warmth of your coconut broth.
  5. Pour in one can of rich coconut milk, followed by a teaspoon of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. You'll know the broth is ready when a velvety sheen forms on the surface, making it perfect for your prawns.
  6. Carefully fold in the raw prawns, making sure they’re enrobed in the creamy broth. Cover the pot and let them cook for about 5 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque, signaling they’re perfectly tender. Keep an eye on them; overcooking can lead to a tough texture, so it's essential to reach that ideal doneness for comforting prawns.
  7. Remove the pot from heat and stir in a handful of tender greens like baby spinach or sweet potato leaves. Watch as they wilt gently into the broth within about 2 minutes, adding vibrancy and nutrition to your Ginataan Na Sugpo. Before serving, be sure to discard the lemongrass bundle to avoid any surprises for your guests.
  8. Ladle generous portions of your comforting prawns in coconut milk into warm bowls, pairing it with fluffy jasmine rice on the side. Add wedges of lime for a zesty touch, allowing everyone to squeeze their own before diving into this rich, heartwarming dish. Indulge in a meal that speaks of home and happiness!

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 28gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, use fresh prawns and adjust spice levels to personal preference.

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