From Stir-Fry to Steamed: Discovering Authentic Chinese Prawn Dishes

If you’re a seafood lover, especially a fan of shrimp, you’re in for a treat. Chinese cuisine offers a wide variety of flavorful and comforting dishes that highlight the natural sweetness of prawns. 

In this article, we’ll explore how these dishes are made, what makes them special, and why they continue to be favorites across generations. Get ready to discover how something as simple as prawns can turn into an unforgettable dining experience.

The Beauty of Chinese Prawn Dishes

When it comes to seafood, Chinese prawn dishes are truly something special. One of the most popular techniques is stir-frying over high heat. At the same time, Chinese seafood cuisine is known for using simple yet powerful seasonings—like garlic, salt, pepper, ginger, and a splash of cooking wine. 

Instead of masking the flavor, these ingredients enhance the natural taste of the prawns, creating dishes that are rich but still balanced. Let’s take a closer look at some iconic dishes:

1. You Bao Xia (Stir-Fry Shrimps) 

This dish is all about texture and flavor. Whole shrimps are stir-fried in a hot wok until slightly crispy, then coated in a savory sauce made from chicken broth, black vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and Shaoxing wine. 

The addition of scallions and ginger gives it a fragrant kick, making it a favorite during festive moments like Chinese New Year. It’s bold, slightly tangy, and super satisfying. 

2. Long Jing Xia Ren (Stir-Fried Shrimps with Longjing Tea) 

This one is a bit more elegant and unique. Originating from Hangzhou, this dish combines fresh shrimp with Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, giving it a light and refreshing flavor. 

The prawns are first marinated in egg whites, cornstarch, and rice wine, then gently stir-fried with the tea. The result? Tender, silky shrimp with a subtle tea fragrance—simple, clean, and refined. 

3. Jiao Yan Xia (Sichuan Salt and Pepper Prawns) 

If you like bold flavors, this one’s for you. This Sichuan-style dish uses a dry-frying technique (gan pian) to create prawns that are slightly crispy and coated with aromatic spices. 

Garlic, ginger, and Sichuan pepper bring a mix of savory, spicy, and slightly numbing sensations. Finished with salt, sesame oil, and a hint of sugar, the dish is rich, fragrant, and totally addictive. 

4. Aomen Da Suan Xia (Macanese Garlic Prawns) 

Coming from Macau, this dish is packed with garlic goodness. The prawns are butterflied and stuffed with a flavorful mix of garlic, chili, coriander, and ginger. They’re then fried until golden and finished with a splash of rice wine. 

The result is juicy prawns bursting with aromatic flavors, often served with a squeeze of lemon for a fresh twist.

Why Fresh Prawns Matter

In Chinese prawn dishes, the quality of the prawns can make or break the dish. Fresh prawns naturally have a slightly sweet taste and a firm, springy texture that feels satisfying when you bite into them. 

On the other hand, prawns that aren’t fresh tend to lose that signature texture and can taste bland or off. Because Chinese cooking often keeps the seasoning simple—like garlic, salt, and pepper—the natural flavor of the prawns becomes the star. 

That’s why choosing fresh prawns is so important—it helps every dish taste cleaner, richer, and much more enjoyable.

Premium Prawn Dishes at Ocean Dynasty

If you’re looking to enjoy Chinese prawn dishes with a more premium touch, Ocean Dynasty is definitely worth checking out. They offer a wide variety of prawn dishes made with high-quality ingredients and authentic Chinese seasonings, so every bite feels rich, fresh, and satisfying. Here are some highlights from their menu:

A. Live Prawn

• Flaming with Chinese Rice Wine

This dish is all about presentation and flavor. The live prawns are flambéed with Chinese rice wine, creating a rich aroma and slightly sweet, bold taste. It’s a unique experience where you can enjoy both the freshness and the dramatic cooking style. 

• Poached (Steamed Style)

Simple yet elegant, this cooking method keeps the prawns tender and juicy. By gently cooking them, the natural sweetness really shines through, making it perfect for those who love clean and delicate flavors. 

• Fried with Salted Egg Yolk

A favorite for many, this dish coats the prawns in a creamy, savory salted egg yolk sauce. The combination of crispy texture and rich flavor makes it super addictive and satisfying. 

• Deep Fried with Salt and Pepper

This classic style highlights crispy prawns tossed with garlic, chili, salt, and pepper. It’s simple, fragrant, and packed with bold flavors that make every bite irresistible.

B. Fresh Prawn

• Steamed with Garlic

A light and aromatic dish where fresh prawns are topped with fragrant garlic and gently steamed. It’s all about enhancing the natural taste without overpowering it. 

• Sweet & Sour Sauce

This dish brings a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors. The sauce adds a vibrant kick that pairs beautifully with the juicy prawns. 

• Dynasty Chef’s Special Sauce

A signature creation that combines rich, savory flavors with a hint of sweetness. It’s a must-try if you want something unique and full of character. 

• Mongolian Style

Bold and slightly smoky, this dish features prawns cooked with a savory sauce that has a deep, rich taste. Perfect for those who enjoy stronger flavors. 

• Pumpkin Sauce

Creamy and slightly sweet, this dish uses pumpkin sauce to create a comforting and unique flavor profile. It’s smooth, rich, and a little different from the usual prawn dishes. 

• Salted Egg Yolk

Another crowd favorite, this version delivers a rich and creamy coating with that signature salty-sweet taste that pairs perfectly with crispy prawns.

C. Grilled Big Prawn

• Pakpau Sauce 

These large prawns are grilled to bring out a smoky aroma, then topped with a creamy, savory Pakpau sauce. The result is juicy, flavorful, and super satisfying. 

• Sweet & Spicy Sauce

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this dish combines sweetness with a spicy kick. The grilled prawns soak up the sauce beautifully, making each bite bold and exciting.

Craving Something Flavorful and Satisfying?

From the sizzling aroma of stir-fried prawns to the delicate taste of steamed creations, Chinese prawn dishes truly offer something for everyone. They prove that with the right techniques and quality ingredients, even the simplest dish can become extraordinary.

Planning a great dining experience starts with choosing the right place—and if you’re craving authentic flavors, Ocean Dynasty Bali is definitely worth a visit. Before you go, take some time to explore our menu, where you’ll find a wide selection of dishes, including flavorful Chinese prawn dishes made with premium ingredients and authentic recipes. It’s the perfect way to decide what you’d like to try and get excited for your meal. 

To make your visit even more convenient, don’t forget to secure your spot with early reservations. Simply contact +62 811-1920-9007 via WhatsApp or call, and the team will be happy to assist you. Easy, quick, and stress-free—so you can focus on enjoying great food and good moments.

FAQ

Which is the best prawn dish? 

It depends on your taste—salted egg yolk prawns for something rich, or garlic steamed prawns for a lighter option.

What is a Chinese dish with prawns? 

A popular example is salt and pepper prawns, made with garlic, chili, and simple seasonings that highlight the prawn’s natural flavor.