How to Make Prawn Crackers with Sweet Chili Dip (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Prawn Crackers with Sweet Chili Dip, known locally as 'Keropok Udang dengan Sos Cili Manis', is a beloved snack across Malaysia, often enjoyed during festive gatherings, family meals, or as a light treat for afternoon tea. The prawn crackers are crisp, airy, and lightly salted, providing a perfect base to savor the bold, sweet, and tangy chili dip. This dish reflects Malaysia’s vibrant multicultural cuisine, blending Malay, Chinese, and Peranakan influences, and showcases local ingredients like lemongrass and cili padi for authentic flavor. While traditionally deep-fried, this health-conscious version uses air-fried or baked prawn crackers to reduce oil content, making it suitable for calorie tracking without sacrificing taste. The homemade sweet chili dip uses fresh ingredients, including local gula Melaka (palm sugar) and lime juice, delivering a perfect balance of sweetness and heat. This snack is an excellent choice for those seeking authentic Malaysian flavors in a lighter, vegetarian-friendly format, perfect for sharing at any occasion.
Bahan
Arahan langkah demi langkah
Step 1 · Preheat your air fryer or oven to 180°C
Preheat your air fryer or oven to 180°C. Lightly spray the prawn crackers with vegetable oil to ensure even crisping.
Step 2 · Air-fry or bake prawn crackers for 2-4 minutes until they puff up a...
Air-fry or bake prawn crackers for 2-4 minutes until they puff up and become golden. Remove and let cool.
Step 3 · Prepare the sweet chili dip by blending red chili
Prepare the sweet chili dip by blending red chili, cili padi (if using), garlic, lemongrass, gula Melaka, rice vinegar, lime juice, water, and salt until smooth.
Step 4 · Transfer the blended mixture to a small saucepan
Transfer the blended mixture to a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
Step 5 · Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature
Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature. Taste and adjust lime juice or salt if needed.
Step 6 · Arrange the crispy prawn crackers on a serving plate
Arrange the crispy prawn crackers on a serving plate. Serve with a small bowl of sweet chili dip on the side.
Mengapa resipi ini sihat
By using air-fried or baked prawn crackers, this snack avoids the excess oil and calories of deep frying. The sweet chili dip is made from scratch with natural sweeteners and no preservatives, making it fresher and less processed. The use of fresh herbs and spices enhances taste without relying on added sugars or fats, making it a healthy yet satisfying option for mindful eaters.
Nota tentang tradisi
Keropok Udang is a staple in Malaysian households, especially in coastal regions like Terengganu and Kelantan where seafood is abundant. This snack is cherished during Hari Raya and family celebrations, often served as a communal treat. The sweet chili dip reflects the Malaysian love for bold, layered flavors, influenced by Malay and Peranakan culinary traditions. Prawn crackers are also popular at open houses and food markets, symbolizing hospitality and sharing.