Tôm càng xanh hấp sả bia (Steamed River Prawns with Lemongrass and Beer)

Fresh prawns symbolize vitality and success. The aromatic infusion of lemongrass and beer enhances the natural sweetness of the prawns.

Nguyên liệu

Main Protein

2 whole freshwater giant prawns (tôm càng xanh – keep shell and tail for flavor and presentation)

Steaming Liquid

1 bottle (375ml) of light beer (for steaming, enhances sweetness of shrimp)
A pinch of salt and pepper (to balance flavor)

Flavored Butter

Garlic herb butter (used after steaming or as dipping sauce – amount optional, ~1 tsp per serving)
(Typically includes unsalted butter, minced garlic, parsley or thyme)

Garnish

1 lime or lemon (cut into wedges for squeezing before serving)

Thành phần dinh dưỡng

For: Omnivores

Calories per serving: ~ 180–220 kcal (per portion with 1 tôm càng xanh, ~180g)

Key Nutrients

1. Lean Protein (18–22g)

Source: Freshwater giant prawn (tôm càng xanh)
Benefits: High-quality protein that supports muscle repair and immune function, low in fat and calories.

2. Healthy Fats (5–7g)

Source: Garlic herb butter
Benefits: Enhances flavor, helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins, and supports brain and hormone health (use in moderation).

3. Antioxidants & Detoxifiers

Polyphenols (beer): Trace antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals during steaming.
Allicin (garlic): Supports immunity and may reduce inflammation.
Vitamin C (lime): Boosts collagen production and immune defense.

4. Essential Minerals

Zinc & Selenium (shrimp): Support fertility, immunity, and antioxidant defenses.
Phosphorus & Iodine: Important for bone strength and thyroid function.

Chế biến

1. Prepare the Giant River Prawns

Defrost the fresh giant river prawns. Slice them lengthwise along the back and trim off the fins. You’ll end up with four prawn tails. Place the tails meat-side up in a steamer pot. Drizzle a mixture of garlic herb butter over the prawn meat, then season with salt and pepper.

2. Steam the Prawns

Place the pot on the stove and pour beer into the base. Steam the prawns over medium heat for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the prawn tails are fully cooked.

3. Serve and Enjoy

To check for doneness, look at the prawn tails — if they’re curled up, they’re ready. Squeeze half a lime over the prawns once they’re done.
The total preparation and cooking time for beer-steamed prawns typically ranges from 30 to 40 minutes, depending on prawn size, so there’s no need for extensive prep beforehand.

Make sure to use fresh prawns, as spoiled ones will have an unpleasant smell. This is a simple dish that requires no dicing or mincing. A light beer is ideal to enhance the flavor. If desired, you can sprinkle some lemongrass on top for added fragrance.

Câu chuyện

Backstory: A Toast to Simplicity and Flavor

Steamed giant river prawns with beer is a dish that embodies both celebration and simplicity in Vietnamese cuisine. Popular in the Mekong Delta and Southern Vietnam, where freshwater prawns thrive, this dish is a staple at family gatherings, festive dinners, and seaside feasts.

The idea of steaming prawns with beer likely emerged from Vietnam’s long-standing culinary practice of infusing local ingredients with whatever is freshest and most accessible. Beer not only brings out the natural sweetness of the prawn meat but also adds a subtle bitterness that balances the rich garlic butter.

What makes this dish special is its communal spirit — it’s often cooked on the spot, shared straight from the pot, and paired with light-hearted conversation, dipping sauces, and a cold drink in hand. With minimal seasoning, the focus stays on the freshness of the prawns, making it a celebration of both nature’s bounty and human connection.

Localicious