Assam Prawns

Assam Prawns is a common variant of the favourite assam dish.  When prawns are a good buy at the supermarket, coupled with the cold weather, the Swallow will serve this dish to tantalize the taste buds.

ASSAM PRAWNS (serves 4)

Ingredients

• 600g medium prawns
• 2 large onions, sliced
• 5 - 7 fresh chillies
• 1 tsp belachan granules
• 3 shallots
• 4 candlenuts
• 1 cup tamarind water
• 2 - 3 tamarind pieces
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 4 tbsp oil
• 1 can pineapple rings, drained and cut into pieces
• syrup from can of pineapples
• additional boiled water, if necessary
• sugar, to taste

Method

1. Rinse prawns lightly in water.  Trim shells and feelers.  Remove the heads (optional).
2. Ground chillies, belachan, shallots and candlenuts into a fine paste.
3. Heat oil in a wok until hot.  Fry the paste until the oil separates from the paste.  Add tamarind water, tamarind pieces, salt and syrup.
4. Add prawns, large onions and pineapples pieces.  Fry the mixture until the prawns turn colour.  Season with sugar, to taste.
5. Serve hot with rice.

Notes

• Juice from limes may be added for a more sourish taste.