Cucur Udang with Peanut Sauce Recipe (Prawn Fritters)

Prawns: Peeled and deveined, these provide the main protein for the fritters.

All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the batter for the fritters.

Baking powder: Helps the fritters rise and become fluffy.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of both the fritters and the sauce.

Water: Used to mix the batter and the peanut sauce.

Egg: Adds richness and helps bind the batter.

Bean sprouts: Adds a fresh, crunchy texture to the fritters.

Spring onions: Adds a mild onion flavor and color to the fritters.

Oil: Used for frying the fritters until golden brown.

Ground roasted peanuts: Forms the base of the peanut sauce, providing a rich and nutty flavor.

Tamarind paste: Adds a tangy flavor to the peanut sauce.

Sugar: Balances the flavors in the peanut sauce.

Red chilies: Adds heat and color to the peanut sauce.

When preparing prawns, make sure they are thoroughly peeled and deveined to ensure a clean and pleasant texture in your fritters. For the batter, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt first to evenly distribute the leavening agent, which will help the fritters puff up nicely. When folding in the prawns, bean sprouts, and spring onions, do so gently to maintain the integrity of the ingredients. For frying, ensure the oil is at the right temperature by dropping a small amount of batter into the pan; it should sizzle and rise to the surface immediately. This will help achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. For the peanut sauce, blending the ingredients until smooth will create a creamy consistency that complements the crunchy fritters perfectly.

• prawns - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can provide a similar texture and protein content, making it a good alternative for those who do not consume seafood.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with rice flour: Rice flour can make the fritters gluten-free and provide a slightly crispier texture.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: A combination of baking soda and cream of tartar can mimic the leavening effect of baking powder.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar salty flavor along with a bit of umami.

• water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can add extra flavor to the batter.

• beaten egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water: A mixture of flaxseed meal and water can act as a binding agent for those who are vegan.

• bean sprouts - Substitute with shredded cabbage: Shredded cabbage can provide a similar crunch and texture.

• spring onions - Substitute with chives: Chives can offer a similar mild onion flavor.

• oil for frying - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil has a high smoke point and can add a subtle coconut flavor.

• ground roasted peanuts - Substitute with almond meal: Almond meal can provide a similar nutty flavor and texture.

• tamarind paste - Substitute with lime juice and brown sugar: A mixture of lime juice and brown sugar can mimic the tangy and sweet flavor of tamarind paste.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide a similar sweetness with a slightly different flavor profile.

• chopped red chilies - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: Crushed red pepper flakes can add a similar level of heat and spice.

• Allow the prawn fritters to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled fritters in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume them within 2-3 days.
• For longer storage, arrange the fritters on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the fritters to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date.
• The peanut sauce can be stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• To freeze the sauce, pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Label with the date.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat the fritters in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• Thaw the peanut sauce in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
• Enjoy your Cucur Udang with freshly reheated peanut sauce for a delightful snack or appetizer.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the prawn fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until they are heated through and crispy.

• For a quicker method, use an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the fritters in a single layer and heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.

• If you prefer using a microwave, place the fritters on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are heated evenly.

• To reheat on the stovetop, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil to the pan. Place the fritters in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are heated through and crispy.

• For the peanut sauce, transfer it to a small saucepan. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water to reach the desired consistency.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the flour, baking powder, and salt, and later to mix in the water, beaten egg, prawns, bean sprouts, and spring onions.

• Whisk: This will help you mix the flour, baking powder, salt, water, and beaten egg until smooth.

• Frying pan: Heat the oil in this pan to fry the batter until golden brown.

• Scoop or spoon: Use this to scoop the batter into the hot oil.

• Paper towels: Drain the fritters on these to remove excess oil.

• Blender: Blend all the peanut sauce ingredients until smooth using this.

• Measuring cups and spoons: These will help you measure out the ingredients accurately.

• Knife: Use this to chop the spring onions and red chilies.

• Cutting board: This provides a safe surface to chop the spring onions and red chilies.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Peel and devein the prawns, chop the spring onions, and measure out all other ingredients ahead of time.

Use a food processor: Quickly blend the peanut sauce ingredients in a food processor to save time.

Preheat oil: Start heating the oil while you mix the batter to streamline the frying process.

Batch frying: Fry multiple fritters at once to reduce cooking time.

Use a scoop: Use an ice cream scoop to portion the batter evenly and quickly.