Steamed Prawns w/ Glass Noodles (Goong ob Woonsen)

When you think of a dish that embodies the essence of fresh seafood and comforting flavors, Steamed Prawns w/ Glass Noodles (Goong ob Woonsen) comes to mind. This delightful Thai dish features plump, juicy prawns cooked to perfection, complemented by delicate glass noodles that soak up the aromatic broth. The combination of fresh herbs and spices elevates this dish, making it a favorite among seafood lovers. It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Thailand. Let’s dive into this tantalizing recipe and discover how to recreate it at home.

The Upside of Steamed Prawns w/ Glass Noodles (Goong ob Woonsen)

One of the best things about Steamed Prawns w/ Glass Noodles (Goong ob Woonsen) is how simple yet flavorful it is. The steaming method preserves the prawns’ natural sweetness while infusing the noodles with a rich, savory sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend gathering. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it also offers a lighter alternative to heavier, fried dishes. Plus, the vibrant colors from the fresh herbs and prawns make it a feast for the eyes as well!

Ingredient Checklist

• 4 large fresh prawns (shell-on, deveined)
• 100g glass noodles
• 3 stalks spring onions (chopped)
• 3 stalks Chinese celery (chopped)
• 1 knob old ginger (thinly sliced)
• 1 head garlic (minced)
• 4 coriander roots (lightly crushed)
• 1 pinch whole white peppercorns (crushed)
• 1 tbsp ground white pepper
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 4 tbsp oyster sauce
• 2 tbsp light soy sauce
• 2 tbsp dark sweet soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 200ml water

Must-Have Equipment

• Steamer: Essential for cooking the prawns and noodles evenly.
• Mixing Bowl: For preparing the marinade and mixing ingredients.
• Serving Dish: To display your beautiful creation.
• Chopping Board and Knife: For prepping your fresh ingredients.

Steamed Prawns w/ Glass Noodles (Goong ob Woonsen) — Do This Next

Step 1: Prepare the Glass Noodles

Start by soaking the glass noodles in warm water for about 20-30 minutes or until they are soft. Once softened, drain them and set aside.

Step 2: Marinate the Prawns

In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, ground white pepper, sugar, oyster sauce, light and dark soy sauces, and sesame oil. Add the prawns and toss them gently in the marinade. Allow them to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb all the wonderful flavors.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

In your steamer, place the soaked glass noodles at the bottom. Lay the marinated prawns on top of the noodles. Scatter the chopped spring onions, Chinese celery, sliced ginger, coriander roots, and crushed white peppercorns over the prawns.

Step 4: Steam

Pour 200ml of water into the steamer and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, place the steamer basket over the pot, cover, and steam for about 10-15 minutes, or until the prawns are pink and cooked through.

Step 5: Serve

Carefully remove the steamer from heat. Transfer the prawns and noodles to a serving dish, making sure to drizzle any excess juices from the steamer over the top. Garnish with additional spring onions and coriander if desired.

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

• Fresh Chilis: Add sliced fresh chilis for an extra kick.
• Lime Juice: A squeeze of lime juice enhances the dish’s brightness.
• Thai Basil: Substitute or add Thai basil for a different herbaceous note.
• Mushrooms: Incorporate shiitake or enoki mushrooms for added texture.

Errors to Dodge

When preparing Steamed Prawns w/ Glass Noodles (Goong ob Woonsen), a few common mistakes can detract from your dish:

• Overcooking the prawns can lead to a rubbery texture.
• Not soaking the glass noodles adequately can result in a chewy texture.
• Skipping the marination process will lessen the dish’s depth of flavor.
• Using too much water in the steamer can dilute the flavors.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

To enjoy your Steamed Prawns w/ Glass Noodles (Goong ob Woonsen) later:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freeze: It’s best not to freeze this dish, as thawing may compromise the texture of the prawns and noodles.
• Reheat: Gently steam or microwave the dish to warm it through, avoiding high heat to prevent overcooking.

Quick Q&A

Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen prawns. Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking.

What can I substitute for glass noodles?

If you can’t find glass noodles, you can use rice noodles or even thin egg noodles as an alternative, though the texture will differ.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level can be adjusted to your preference. If you prefer a milder dish, you can omit any added chilis or adjust the amount of white pepper.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added nutrition and color.

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• Creamy Tomato Basil Shrimp Penne
• Garlic Butter Shrimp With Quinoa

That’s a Wrap

In summary, Steamed Prawns w/ Glass Noodles (Goong ob Woonsen) is a dish that beautifully balances health and flavor. With its fragrant ingredients and simple cooking method, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, the vibrant flavors and stunning presentation are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious taste of Thailand right in your own kitchen!