Image by Zach Rowlandson

Prawn cracker

Ah, prawn crackers. A crispy and crunchy treat that's a firm favorite amongst many. But what exactly is a prawn cracker? And why do they taste so darn delicious?

Prawn cracker


Prawn crackers are a type of snack food made from starch, such as tapioca or sago, mixed with seasoning and small pieces of prawns. They can be formed into various shapes and fried or baked, resulting in a golden-brown and crunchy texture. Prawn crackers are popular in Chinese and Southeast Asian cuisine, with countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia having their own unique versions.

The secret to the delectable flavor of prawn crackers lies in the blend of spices used to season them. Typically this includes ginger, garlic, and chilli but some recipes also incorporate other ingredients such as cumin, turmeric, and lemongrass. This mix of spices creates a bold and aromatic flavor that's sure to tantalize your tastebuds!

Prawn crackers are also incredibly versatile, making them a great addition to any meal. They can be served as a snack on their own, alongside a main course, or even used as a topping for salads or noodles. The distinct flavor of prawn crackers means they pair well with a range of dishes, making them a go-to for many people.

So, next time you're looking for a tasty snack or something to sprinkle on top of your meals, why not give prawn crackers a try? From their irresistible taste to their convenience and versatility, they're sure to become a staple in your kitchen in no time.

The origin of Prawn cracker

Prawn crackers have become a ubiquitous snack food across popular culture, appearing in countless shopping complexes and Asian restaurants, but do you know their incredible origin story? It all began thousands of years ago in ancient China, where a creative and inquisitive chef broke the boundaries of traditional cuisine.

The chef's unique endeavor was to create a dish from prawns that could be eaten without utensils. After numerous experiments and diligent effort, the chef created a new variety of mian jin which was made from a paste-like substance composed of potato starch and minced prawn meat. Once deep-fried, this mixture resembled a sheet of gold and was so crunchy that it was comparable to crispy crackers.

It wasn't long before the news of this sensational new dish spread throughout the continent and it subsequently became popular across various dynasties of the Chinese empire. Soon enough, it was found in the royal courts, temples, and in the homes of wealthy individuals. With its delightful fragrance and amazing taste, it quickly became a signature dish of the elite.

In the late 19th century, immigrants from China began migrating to other parts of Southeast Asia and they brought with them this new delicacy. In Thailand, the recipe evolved over time to incorporate ingredients like starch, tapioca flour and even banana flour for added flavor and texture.

The end product was an even more divine version of this already tantalizing snack. Its changed name 'Khoai Pia Thod' is still used today and is typically served as a side dish or appetizer.

Today, the prawn cracker remains a much-beloved snack enjoyed by people around the world. Through its journey spanning centuries and continents, it has maintained its central place in culinary culture and is likely to remain there for many years to come.

FAQs about Prawn cracker

Are prawns crackers healthy?

No, prawn crackers are not usually considered to be healthy. They are usually deep-fried and contain high amounts of saturated fat, sodium, and calories.


Is prawn crackers real prawn?

No, most prawn crackers are not actually made from real prawns. Instead, they are made from a flour-based paste and usually flavored with artificial prawn flavorings.


What do you eat prawn crackers with?

Prawn crackers are usually eaten as a snack or appetizer, and can be served with a variety of dips, sauces, or condiments. Popular accompaniments include sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and fish sauce.


Why is a prawn cracker called a prawn cracker?

A prawn cracker is called a prawn cracker because it is made from shrimp or prawns that have been ground up and then processed with other ingredients (such as flour, sugar and seasonings) to form a dough. This dough is then formed into crackers which are deep fried until they are crisp and crunchy.


Types of Prawn cracker

Ah, prawn crackers. Those beloved little nuggets of delectable delight. It's no surprise why they are so popular around the world - they are crunchy, flavorful, and highly addictive. Not to mention, there are so many different types of prawn crackers to choose from.

When it comes to this tasty snack, you can find them in a variety of shapes, flavors, and textures. Some are deep-fried, pan-fried, or oven-baked. Others are either flavoured with a myriad of spices and herbs, or unseasoned. Still other varieties include sticky versions and crispy versions.

Another variation of this beloved dish is the tempura-style prawn cracker. This type of cracker has a light and airy tempura-style batter that provides a deliciously crunchy coating. The shrimp inside is often marinated in soy sauce and given a pinch of fresh ginger before it is fried. Many people also enjoy these lightly battered prawns for their unique taste and texture.

For those with a less adventurous palate, there are also chunky-style prawn crackers. These are made with larger, firmer pieces of shrimp. They are an excellent option if you are looking for a more robust, hearty cracker.

Finally, there is the ubiquitous prawn cracker wrap. This wrap consists of a thin slice of cooked shrimp wrapped around a variety of fillings such as lettuce, cucumber, and herbs. This wrap is especially popular in Asian restaurants and can be served as a delicious finger food.

So, whatever your taste may be, there is sure to be a type of prawn cracker that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you prefer a crunchy tempura-style batter, a lightly seasoned version, or the comforting classic chunky-style, there is a prawn cracker out there for you. Pick one up, or better yet, make your own at home, and enjoy the deliciousness!