There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of noodles, especially when they’re infused with the tropical richness of coconut and the succulent sweetness of fresh prawns. I first encountered Korat Prawn Noodles at a cozy little spot on a rainy evening, where the rich aroma of garlic mingling with fragrant Thai basil swept me off my feet. It inspired me to recreate this delight in my own kitchen, and to my surprise, it only took 30 minutes!
This recipe is perfect for anyone who craves a homemade meal brimming with flavor but finds themselves short on time. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, including luscious coconut milk and vibrant prawns, you’re just steps away from a dish that looks and tastes like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant.
So, whether you’re an aspiring chef looking for a new culinary challenge or someone wishing to break free from the monotony of takeout, let’s dive into making this extraordinary Korat Prawn Noodles together. You won’t regret it!
Why You'll Love This Korat Prawn Noodles
- This recipe is a breeze to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just 30 minutes.
- The combination of fresh prawns and creamy coconut milk creates a flavor explosion that is both exotic and comforting.
- With its beautiful presentation garnished with Thai basil, this dish will impress anyone at your dining table.
- It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables or sauces, making it the perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation.
Korat Prawn Noodles Ingredients
Get ready to savor the flavors of this delightful dish!
For the Noodles
- Flat rice noodles – a perfect base, absorbing the sauce beautifully.
- Fresh prawns – opt for sustainably sourced, as they add a sweet, succulent flavor.
For the Sauce
- Full-fat coconut milk – gives a rich, creamy texture that’s simply irresistible.
- Low-sodium soy sauce – enhances umami without overpowering the dish.
- Fish sauce – a little goes a long way for a savory depth of flavor.
- Minced garlic – essential for an aromatic base that elevates every bite.
For the Garnish
- Thai basil leaves – their sweet and slightly peppery flavor adds a fresh touch to the dish.
Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spice levels to make this Korat Prawn Noodles truly your own!
How to Make Korat Prawn Noodles
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Soak the rice noodles in warm water until they’re soft and pliable, usually about 10-15 minutes. This step ensures they become beautifully tender and ready to absorb all that delicious sauce.
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Sauté the minced garlic in a large pan with a splash of oil over medium heat until it’s fragrant, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This will create a flavorful aroma that sets the stage for the dish.
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Add the fresh prawns to the pan, cooking them for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. You’ll know they’re ready when they have a lovely sheen and an irresistible sweetness.
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Pour in the creamy coconut milk, low-sodium soy sauce, and fish sauce, stirring gently. Let this mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while it bubbles softly.
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Mix in the soaked rice noodles, tossing them until they’re well coated in the aromatic sauce. This should only take about 2-3 minutes to ensure each noodle is perfectly enveloped in flavor.
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Garnish with fresh Thai basil leaves right before serving, adding a pop of color and flavor that brightens up the dish. It’s the perfect finishing touch!
Optional: Serve with a wedge of lime for an extra zesty kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Korat Prawn Noodles Variations
Feel free to spice up your Korat Prawn Noodles with these scrumptious variations to suit your taste!
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Vegetable Medley: Add colorful veggies like bell peppers and snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition. Brighten up each bite and make it more filling!
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Spicy Kick: For a spicy twist, include red chili flakes or fresh sliced chilies while sautéing the garlic. This will give your noodles a delightful heat that dances on the palate!
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Coconut-Free: Swap the full-fat coconut milk for almond milk or any non-dairy milk for a lighter version. Don’t worry, the taste will still be delicious and creamy!
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Zoodle Option: For a low-carb alternative, replace the flat rice noodles with spiralized zucchini noodles. They’ll soak up the sauce beautifully while adding a refreshing crunch!
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Lime Zest Boost: Incorporate the zest of a lime into the sauce for an uplifting citrusy flavor. It contrasts wonderfully with the richness of the coconut milk.
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Prawn Substitute: Use grilled chicken, tofu, or seitan instead of prawns for a satisfying protein swap. Each option brings its own character to the dish, allowing for a unique flavor profile!
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Herb Alternative: Experiment with different herbs, like cilantro or mint, instead of Thai basil for a change. Each herb provides a distinctive flavor experience that can completely transform the dish!
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Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter or tahini for an additional layer of nutty creaminess. It mellows the flavors while adding a rich, satisfying texture.
Get ready to explore these variations and make the Korat Prawn Noodles your own culinary masterpiece!
How to Store and Freeze Korat Prawn Noodles
Fridge: Store any leftover Korat Prawn Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of coconut milk.
Freezer: If you want to keep the dish longer, freeze the noodles separately from the prawns and sauce. They can last up to 2 months; just thaw completely before reheating.
Reheating: For the best taste, reheat the thawed prawns and sauce in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. Add extra coconut milk for creaminess if needed.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Korat Prawn Noodles out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain freshness and safety.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Korat Prawn Noodles ahead of time is a wonderful way to save time on busy weeknights! You can soak the flat rice noodles up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them in a sealed container with a little water to prevent sticking. Additionally, the garlic can be minced ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your Korat Prawn Noodles, simply sauté the garlic and fresh prawns as directed, then add the pre-soaked noodles and sauce ingredients. This method ensures each bite remains just as delicious as if freshly prepared, giving you that comforting, homemade taste without the hassle!
What to Serve with Korat Prawn Noodles?
There’s nothing quite like creating a full meal that sings in harmony with your delightful noodles, enhancing the experience with vibrant flavors and textures.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These golden bites add a crunchy texture and a delightful contrast to the creamy noodles, perfect for a starter.
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Thai Mango Salad: Fresh, zesty, and slightly sweet, this salad balances the richness of the prawns, making your meal feel refreshing.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fragrant, this classic pairing absorbs the delicious sauce, allowing every drop of flavor to be enjoyed.
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Spicy Peanut Sauce: Drizzle this onto the prawns or serve it on the side for a nutty and flavorful kick that elevates every bite.
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Coconut Lychee Sorbet: A light and tropical dessert that echoes your prawn noodles, providing a sweet and refreshing finish after your meal.
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Chilled Coconut Water: Hydrating and subtly sweet, this drink complements the meal perfectly and enhances the tropical vibes.
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Garlic Bread: Toasted and buttery, it offers a crunchy element that contrasts nicely with the soft noodles and prawns while enhancing the garlic flavor.
Delight in these pairings, transforming your dinner into a beautiful, multi-course experience where every element shines!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Soak the rice noodles for at least 10 minutes in warm water to ensure they are soft and absorb the sauce well.
- Always sauté the garlic until fragrant but be careful not to burn it, as this can impart a bitter flavor to your Korat Prawn Noodles.
- When cooking the prawns, make sure they are fully pink and opaque, which indicates they are cooked through without being overdone.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes to let the ingredients meld, ensuring a rich and flavorful dish.
Korat Prawn Noodles Recipe FAQs
How do I select the freshest prawns for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing fresh prawns, look for those that feel firm to the touch and have a slight sheen. Their shells should be moist, and you want to avoid any with dark spots all over, as those may indicate spoilage. If you’re in doubt, ask your fishmonger for the day’s catch!
How should I store leftover Korat Prawn Noodles?
You can store any leftover Korat Prawn Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a pan over low heat with a splash of coconut milk to restore creaminess and flavor.
Can I freeze Korat Prawn Noodles?
Yes, you can freeze Korat Prawn Noodles, but I recommend separating the shrimp and noodles from the sauce to maintain their texture. Place the components in airtight containers or freezer bags and they’ll last up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw everything completely in the fridge, then warm them together in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes.
What should I do if my noodles are too sticky?
Very! If your noodles turn out sticky, they might not have soaked long enough or could have been boiled instead of soaked in warm water. For a quick fix, run them under warm water to loosen them up, then toss them with a little oil to keep them from clumping.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Of course! To make gluten-free Korat Prawn Noodles, you can substitute the flat rice noodles with gluten-free noodles like rice spaghetti or even zucchini noodles. Be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce, such as tamari, in place of regular soy sauce to keep the flavors intact.
Is it safe for pets?
While the ingredients in Korat Prawn Noodles are generally safe for humans, be mindful that garlic can be toxic to dogs and cats. So, if you’re sharing with your furry friends, it’s best to keep those portions separate and stick to just the prawns and noodles!
Equipment
- large pan
- bowl for soaking noodles
Ingredients
For the Noodles
- 200 grams flat rice noodles
- 300 grams fresh prawns opt for sustainably sourced
For the Sauce
- 400 ml full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 3 cloves minced garlic
For the Garnish
- 8 leaves Thai basil leaves
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Soak the rice noodles in warm water until they're soft and pliable, about 10-15 minutes.
- Sauté the minced garlic in a large pan with a splash of oil over medium heat until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the fresh prawns to the pan, cooking them for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Pour in the creamy coconut milk, low-sodium soy sauce, and fish sauce, stirring gently. Let this mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix in the soaked rice noodles, tossing them until they’re well coated in the aromatic sauce for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh Thai basil leaves right before serving.
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