Soy Sauce King Prawn is a famous Cantonese seafood dish known for its rich aroma, glossy sauce, and perfectly cooked prawns. The dish is popular in Chinese seafood restaurants and is often served as part of traditional Cantonese cuisine meals.

The name “Soy Sauce King” refers to the flavorful soy-based sauce used to cook the prawns. This sauce combines soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness to create a perfectly balanced savory dish.

Simple yet elegant, this recipe highlights the natural sweetness of fresh prawns while coating them in a delicious umami-rich sauce.

What Is Soy Sauce King Prawn?

Soy Sauce King Prawn is a stir-fried prawn dish cooked in a thick soy sauce glaze. It is widely served in Cantonese-style restaurants and seafood houses, especially in Hong Kong and the southern Chinese province of Guangdong.

Key features of this dish include:

Juicy prawns with shells on
Dark, glossy soy sauce coating
Fragrant garlic and ginger
Slightly sweet and savory flavor

The dish is usually served hot with steamed rice.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

500 g large prawns (with shells)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon ginger (finely chopped)
2 spring onions (chopped)

Sauce Ingredients

3 tablespoons light soy sauce
1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
1 teaspoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
½ teaspoon white pepper
3 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with water)

Step 1: Prepare the Prawns

  1. Wash the prawns thoroughly.
  2. Trim the whiskers and sharp legs if necessary.
  3. Devein the prawns by making a small cut along the back and removing the vein.

Keeping the shells on helps retain flavor during cooking.

Step 2: Make the Soy Sauce Mixture

In a small bowl combine:

Light soy sauce
Dark soy sauce
Oyster sauce
Sugar
White pepper
Water

Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Aromatics

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and chopped ginger.
  3. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

This step releases the aromatic flavors that define Cantonese cuisine.

Step 4: Cook the Prawns

  1. Add the prawns to the wok.
  2. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink and slightly curled.
  3. Toss continuously to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Add the Soy Sauce

  1. Pour the prepared soy sauce mixture into the wok.
  2. Stir well so the prawns absorb the sauce.
  3. Simmer for 2 minutes.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

  1. Add the cornstarch slurry.
  2. Stir until the sauce becomes glossy and thick.
  3. Add chopped spring onions and mix.

Remove from heat once the prawns are fully coated in sauce.

Tips for Perfect Soy Sauce King Prawns

✔ Use fresh large prawns for the best flavor.
✔ Cook the prawns quickly to keep them tender.
✔ Avoid overcooking, as prawns can become rubbery.
✔ Balance the sauce with sugar to enhance the soy flavor.

Variations

Garlic Soy Prawns

Add extra garlic for a stronger aroma.

Chili Soy Prawns

Include fresh red chilies for a spicy version.

Butter Soy Prawns

Add a small amount of butter for a richer taste.

Serving Suggestions

Soy Sauce King Prawn is best served with:

Steamed jasmine rice
Stir-fried vegetables
Noodles

It is commonly found on seafood menus across Hong Kong and other Cantonese dining regions.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a wok or pan.
Avoid microwaving too long, as it may overcook the prawns.

Final Thoughts

If you love seafood dishes with bold flavors, Soy Sauce King Prawn is a must-try recipe. The combination of fresh prawns and rich soy sauce glaze creates a delicious Cantonese-style dish that is both simple and impressive.

With just a few ingredients and quick cooking, you can bring the authentic taste of Cantonese cuisine into your home kitchen.