Lemongrass prawn

Losing appetite is normal during a hot day such as this one. I initially felt very uninspired to cook today because the sun glare was so strong I had to close the curtains in the family room, yet it didn't help much (thank goodness for air-con!), then I rummaged through the fridge and started taking out 'lighter' ingredients.. chicken as opposed to beef, plenty of veggies and prawn from the freezer. 

The heat makes me want to cook something that tastes a bit tropical, if you know what I mean.. things like coconut, lemongrass, and pineapple. (cross the last one out, I don't have it handy in my kitchen)  So, I decided that the combination of coconut & lemongrass will be palatable with the prawns, and the chicken will have to go with chinese cabbage in a light, soupy dish. I'm all set to cook!!

Lemongrass Prawn with sweet sesame dipping sauce - serves 2

150 g raw prawns, peeled, minced

2 1/2 tbsp corn starch

2 tsp brown sugar

1/2 tsp fish sauce

salt & white pepper to taste (approx 1/4 tsp)

3 tbsp dessicated coconut

3 stalks lemongrass, cut into 6 pcs 

1 egg yolk mixed with 1/2 tsp brown sugar (for brushing)

Dipping sauce:

2 tsp hoisin sauce

1 tsp light soy sauce

about 7 tbsp water

1/2 tsp sesame oil

white pepper & salt

sesame seeds, toasted (optional)

Pre-heat the oven (I used grill/ fan grill) at 180C, line a baking tray with baking paper/ greased aluminium foil.

Heat a small frying pan (without oil) to toast the dessicated coconut for about 3 minutes, or until it turns golden brown & fragrant, set aside.

Mix the minced prawns with corn starch, brown sugar, salt & pepper together. Add the toasted coconut last. 

Mould the prawn mixture onto the cut lemongrass stalks (use a little water on your hand to handle the sticky mixture)

Place the prawn skewers onto the prepared tray & brush with the egg wash.

Grill for about 10-15 minutes, repeat the egg wash, turning once as they brown slightly.

Meanwhile, prepare the dipping sauce: 

Mix all ingredients but the sesame seeds (if using) together in a small pan, stir occasionally until it bubbles and is thickened slightly. Turn the heat off, pour the sauce into a small bowl & sprinkle sesame seeds on top.