Ingredients:

• 500g prawns, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon sugar (or to taste)
• 2 teaspoons cornflour (for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon chili sauce (optional for heat)
• Fresh coriander for garnish (optional)

Health Benefits

• High in Protein: Prawns are an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall body function.
• Low in Calories: Prawns are naturally low in calories, making them a healthy choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight.
• Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Prawns provide beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, which help promote heart health, reduce inflammation, and support brain function.
• Good for Immune Health: Ingredients like garlic, ginger, and bell peppers boost the immune system with their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Boosts Digestive Health: The vinegar in the dish can promote better digestion, while pineapple contains enzymes that aid in breaking down proteins.
• Rich in Vitamins: Sweet & Sour Prawns are packed with essential vitamins, including vitamin C from bell peppers and pineapple, which support immunity and skin health.
• Promotes Healthy Skin: The antioxidants in garlic, ginger, and bell peppers help protect the skin from damage and support its natural glow.
• Supports Metabolism: The dish's spices, including ginger and garlic, may help enhance metabolism and support fat burning.

History

Sweet & Sour Prawns is a dish that originates from the rich culinary traditions of Chinese and Indo-Chinese cuisine. The combination of sweet and sour flavors has long been a hallmark of Chinese cooking, where balancing these contrasting tastes creates a harmonious dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. The dish itself reflects the influence of traditional Cantonese cooking, where sweet and sour sauce, typically made from vinegar, sugar, and ketchup, is used to enhance the flavor of various meats, especially seafood.

The use of prawns in Chinese cuisine can be traced back centuries, as seafood has always been abundant along China's coastal regions. The dish likely evolved during the 19th and 20th centuries when Chinese immigrants brought their culinary traditions to different parts of the world, especially Southeast Asia and beyond. The introduction of ingredients like bell peppers, pineapple, and soy sauce into the mix was likely influenced by the availability of local produce and the fusion of regional tastes.

In Indo-Chinese cuisine, which combines Indian and Chinese cooking techniques, Sweet & Sour Prawns has become a popular dish, particularly in restaurants serving Chinese food in India. The combination of spices and tangy flavors appeals to the Indian palate, where bold flavors are a staple. Over time, the dish has been adapted in many countries, with slight variations to suit local tastes, such as adding extra chili heat or adjusting the sweetness of the sauce.

Today, Sweet & Sour Prawns is enjoyed in restaurants around the world, especially in Chinese, Indo-Chinese, and fusion cuisine establishments. Its bright, tangy flavor profile, combined with the tender sweetness of prawns, has made it a favorite among seafood lovers. The dish continues to evolve, with chefs adding their own twists while staying true to its roots as a beloved classic.