How to Make Salted Egg Prawns (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Salted Egg Prawns is a beloved dish in Singapore’s vibrant hawker and kopitiam scene, known for its unique fusion of Chinese and Peranakan influences. This dinner recipe features succulent prawns coated in a rich salted egg yolk sauce, which delivers both a creamy texture and an umami-packed flavor explosion. Singaporeans enjoy Salted Egg Prawns as a treat at zi char stalls, family gatherings, and festive occasions, reflecting the city’s penchant for creative, flavorful cooking. The dish’s origins trace back to the salted egg craze that swept through Singapore, inspiring chefs and hawker stall owners to incorporate salted egg yolk into everything from snacks to main courses. Salted Egg Prawns exemplifies Singapore’s global culinary style, blending local ingredients and traditional cooking methods for an unforgettable taste. The balance of savory, sweet, and spicy notes appeals to food lovers of all ages, making it a versatile choice for dinner. This health-conscious version reduces oil and uses fresh prawns, lean coconut milk, and light seasoning. It’s a great choice for calorie counters and those seeking a nutritious meal without sacrificing authentic Singaporean taste. Salted Egg Prawns brings together culture, comfort, and flavor—a true highlight of Singapore’s hawker food heritage.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Pat prawns dry and lightly dust with cornstarch to ensure crisp tex...
Pat prawns dry and lightly dust with cornstarch to ensure crisp texture.
Step 2 · Steam salted egg yolks for 5 minutes
Steam salted egg yolks for 5 minutes, then mash until smooth.
Step 3 · Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok. Pan-fry prawns until just cooked and pink. Remove and set aside.
Step 4 · In the same wok
In the same wok, add remaining oil. Sauté garlic, curry leaves, and chilli padi until fragrant.
Step 5 · Add mashed salted egg yolks
Add mashed salted egg yolks, stir until bubbly and foamy.
Step 6 · Pour in evaporated milk or coconut milk
Pour in evaporated milk or coconut milk, sugar, and black pepper. Stir gently to form a thick sauce.
Step 7 · Return prawns to wok
Return prawns to wok. Toss to coat evenly with salted egg sauce. Cook for 2 minutes.
Step 8 · Serve immediately
Serve immediately, garnished with extra curry leaves and sliced chilli if desired.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Salted Egg Prawns recipe is a healthy choice thanks to reduced oil, lean prawns, and the use of low-fat dairy. The dish delivers high protein and moderate fat, supporting satiety and muscle maintenance. Singaporean flavor is preserved without excess calories, making it ideal for weight watchers, diabetics, and anyone seeking nutritious hawker-inspired meals at home.
A note on tradition
Salted Egg Prawns has become a mainstay in Singapore’s kopitiam and zi char culture. It’s commonly served at family dinners and festive occasions like Chinese New Year, symbolizing prosperity and togetherness. The salted egg trend started in Singapore’s hawker centres, evolving into creative dishes like this one. Its popularity reflects the city’s love for fusion flavors and innovative use of traditional ingredients.