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Steamed Prawn
Fish
Nutri-ScoreA

Steamed Prawn

Penaeus vannamei

Clinical Encyclopedia

Steamed prawns are a nutritious seafood option, rich in protein and low in calories, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet. They are also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Scientific NamePenaeus vannamei
Region of OriginGlobal, commonly farmed in Southeast Asia and South America.

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories99 kcal
Water
80%
Fiber0g
Total21.4g
Protein
20.3g(95%)
Fats
0.9g(4%)
Carbohydrates
0.2g(1%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Health Benefits

High in protein, steamed prawns support muscle growth and repair, making them ideal for athletes and active individuals.
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, they promote heart health by reducing inflammation and improving cholesterol levels.
Low in calories and carbohydrates, steamed prawns are suitable for weight management and low-carb diets.
Packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12 and selenium, they contribute to overall health and immune function.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Individuals with shellfish allergies should avoid consuming prawns as they can trigger severe allergic reactions.
!Overconsumption may lead to elevated cholesterol levels in sensitive individuals due to their cholesterol content.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed steamed to retain nutrients; serve with lemon or herbs for added flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose prawns that are firm, translucent, and have a mild ocean smell. Avoid any with black spots or strong odors.

How to Store

Keep prawns in the coldest part of the refrigerator and consume them within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Myths vs Realities

MythEating prawns increases cholesterol levels.+
RealityWhile prawns contain cholesterol, they can be part of a heart-healthy diet when consumed in moderation.
MythAll seafood is high in mercury.+
RealityPrawns are low in mercury compared to larger fish, making them a safer seafood choice.
MythSteamed prawns lose all their nutrients during cooking.+
RealitySteaming preserves most nutrients, making it a healthy cooking method.

Healthy Recipes

Lemon Garlic Steamed Prawns

These zesty steamed prawns are infused with garlic and lemon, making them a light and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients
  • 500g steamed prawns
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix the minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Add the steamed prawns to the bowl and toss until well coated.
  3. 3. Let marinate for 10 minutes before serving, garnished with fresh parsley.

Spicy Thai Steamed Prawns

Enjoy the bold flavors of Thailand with these spicy steamed prawns, served with a tangy dipping sauce.

Ingredients
  • 500g steamed prawns
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
  1. 1. In a small bowl, combine fish sauce, lime juice, and chili flakes to create the dipping sauce.
  2. 2. Steam the prawns until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve the prawns hot with the dipping sauce and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.

Mediterranean Steamed Prawns with Quinoa

A healthy and filling dish featuring steamed prawns served over a bed of quinoa and roasted vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 500g steamed prawns
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and toss the cherry tomatoes and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Roast the vegetables for 20 minutes until tender.
  3. 3. Serve the steamed prawns over the quinoa, topped with the roasted vegetables.

Coconut Curry Steamed Prawns

These steamed prawns are cooked in a fragrant coconut curry sauce, offering a taste of the tropics.

Ingredients
  • 500g steamed prawns
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, red curry paste, and fish sauce, bringing to a simmer.
  2. 2. Add the steamed prawns and cook for 3-5 minutes until heated through.
  3. 3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Garlic Herb Steamed Prawns with Asparagus

This light and nutritious dish features steamed prawns paired with fresh asparagus and a garlic herb sauce.

Ingredients
  • 500g steamed prawns
  • 200g asparagus, trimmed
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Steam the asparagus for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
  2. 2. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant, then add the steamed prawns.
  3. 3. Toss in the asparagus, lemon zest, salt, and pepper, and serve immediately.

Steamed Prawns with Avocado Salsa

A refreshing dish featuring steamed prawns topped with a vibrant avocado salsa, perfect for a light lunch.

Ingredients
  • 500g steamed prawns
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1 small red onion, diced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt and cilantro to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine diced avocado, red onion, lime juice, salt, and cilantro to make the salsa.
  2. 2. Plate the steamed prawns and top with the avocado salsa.
  3. 3. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Asian Style Steamed Prawns with Bok Choy

These steamed prawns are served with tender bok choy and a soy-ginger sauce for an Asian-inspired meal.

Ingredients
  • 500g steamed prawns
  • 2 cups bok choy, halved
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Steam the bok choy for 2-3 minutes until just wilted.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil.
  3. 3. Serve the steamed prawns over bok choy, drizzled with the soy-ginger sauce.

Prawn and Vegetable Steamed Dumplings

These healthy dumplings are filled with a mixture of steamed prawns and fresh vegetables, making for a delightful appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 500g steamed prawns, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • Dumpling wrappers
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix the chopped prawns, cabbage, carrot, and soy sauce.
  2. 2. Place a spoonful of the mixture in the center of each dumpling wrapper and fold to seal.
  3. 3. Steam the dumplings for 6-8 minutes until cooked through, and serve with soy sauce.

Steamed Prawn Salad with Citrus Dressing

This vibrant salad features steamed prawns tossed with mixed greens and a citrus dressing for a refreshing meal.

Ingredients
  • 500g steamed prawns
  • 4 cups mixed greens
  • 1 orange, segmented
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, orange segments, and steamed prawns.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are steamed prawns healthy?

Yes, steamed prawns are low in calories and high in protein, making them a healthy choice.

How should I store steamed prawns?

Store steamed prawns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Can I freeze steamed prawns?

Yes, you can freeze steamed prawns; they will maintain quality for about 3 months.

What are the best ways to season steamed prawns?

Lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like parsley or cilantro enhance the flavor of steamed prawns.

How long should I steam prawns?

Steam prawns for about 3-5 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.

Are there any health benefits to eating prawns?

Yes, they are rich in protein, low in fat, and provide essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and selenium.

Can I eat the shells of steamed prawns?

While the shells are edible, they are often discarded; however, they can be used to make stock.

What is the difference between prawns and shrimp?

Prawns are generally larger than shrimp and have different gill structures and reproductive methods.