Cereal Prawn: A Delicious and Iconic Singaporean Dish

by | Feb 11, 2025 | Uncategorized

Cereal Prawn: A Delicious and Iconic Singaporean Dish

Introduction

Cereal Prawn is a beloved dish in Singaporean and Malaysian cuisine, known for its unique combination of crispy, buttery, and slightly sweet flavors. Found commonly in zi char (stir-fry) restaurants and seafood eateries, this dish is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The dish features large prawns coated in a fragrant and crunchy cereal mixture, offering an irresistible contrast of textures and flavors. But what makes Cereal Prawn so special? Let’s dive into its origins, ingredients, preparation methods, and variations.

The Origins of Cereal Prawn

Cereal Prawn is a relatively modern dish that emerged in Singapore and Malaysia’s culinary scene in the late 20th century. It is believed to have been invented by local chefs who sought to create a dish that fused Asian and Western flavors. The use of Nestum cereal, a product from Nestlé, is a defining feature of the dish. This wheat-based cereal is commonly consumed as a breakfast staple, but inventive chefs discovered that it could be transformed into a crispy, savory topping for prawns. Over time, Cereal Prawn has become a must-try dish in seafood restaurants, with its rich flavors capturing the hearts of many food lovers.

Key Ingredients

Cereal Prawn stands out due to its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in bringing out the dish’s signature taste and texture. Here are the key ingredients:

1. Prawns

  • Large prawns (Tiger prawns or King prawns) are preferred due to their firm texture and natural sweetness.
  • Some restaurants keep the shells on for extra crunch, while others remove them for easier consumption.

2. Nestum Cereal

  • The star ingredient of the dish, Nestum cereal, provides a crispy and fragrant coating.
  • Unlike regular breakfast cereals, Nestum has a slightly malty and buttery taste that enhances the dish’s richness.

3. Butter

  • Adds a creamy and aromatic flavor, helping to bind the cereal to the prawns.
  • A generous amount of butter is used to ensure the dish remains indulgent.

4. Egg Yolks

  • Whisked egg yolks are sometimes drizzled into the hot butter to create a fine, crispy texture.
  • This step adds an extra layer of crunch and depth to the dish.

5. Curry Leaves

  • A key ingredient in Southeast Asian cooking, curry leaves add a distinct, slightly spicy aroma that complements the cereal coating.

6. Bird’s Eye Chilies

  • Provides a hint of spice to balance the sweetness of the cereal.
  • Can be adjusted according to spice preference.

7. Sugar and Condensed Milk

  • Some recipes include sugar or condensed milk to enhance the sweetness of the cereal mixture.

8. Salt and Pepper

  • Used for seasoning to ensure a well-balanced taste.

How Cereal Prawn is Made

The preparation of Cereal Prawn is straightforward, yet it requires precision to achieve the perfect crispy texture and balanced flavor. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how it is traditionally prepared:

Step 1: Preparing the Prawns

  1. Clean and devein the prawns while keeping the shells and heads intact for added crunch and presentation.
  2. Pat the prawns dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
  3. Lightly season the prawns with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Frying the Prawns

  1. Heat a wok with oil and deep-fry the prawns until they turn golden brown and crispy.
  2. Remove the prawns and drain excess oil on a paper towel.

Step 3: Preparing the Cereal Mixture

  1. In the same wok, melt butter over low heat.
  2. Add curry leaves and chopped bird’s eye chilies, frying until fragrant.
  3. If using egg yolks, whisk and drizzle them into the butter, stirring rapidly to create crispy golden strands.
  4. Pour in Nestum cereal and stir-fry until golden and crispy.
  5. Season with sugar and condensed milk, adjusting to taste.

Step 4: Coating the Prawns

  1. Add the fried prawns to the wok and toss them with the cereal mixture.
  2. Ensure the prawns are well coated with the crispy cereal.
  3. Serve hot, garnished with extra cereal and curry leaves.

Variations of Cereal Prawn

While the classic Cereal Prawn recipe remains a favorite, chefs and home cooks have introduced various creative twists to the dish. Here are some popular variations:

1. Cereal Butter Prawn

  • A richer version with extra butter for a creamier texture.

2. Salted Egg Cereal Prawn

  • Combines the umami-rich flavor of salted egg yolk with the cereal mixture.
  • Adds a more savory dimension to the dish.

3. Spicy Cereal Prawn

  • Uses more chilies or chili powder to enhance the heat factor.
  • Ideal for spice lovers who enjoy a fiery kick.

4. Cereal Chicken

  • A poultry-based variation that substitutes prawns with bite-sized chicken pieces.
  • Popular among those who prefer meat over seafood.

5. Vegetarian Cereal Tofu

  • Uses tofu cubes instead of prawns, making it a great option for vegetarians.

Why People Love Cereal Prawn

Cereal Prawn is a dish that perfectly balances flavors and textures, making it incredibly appealing to a wide audience. Here’s why it remains a crowd favorite:

1. Unique Combination of Flavors

  • The sweet, buttery cereal contrasts beautifully with the savory and umami-rich prawns.

2. Crispy and Crunchy Texture

  • The crispy Nestum cereal coating adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.

3. Aromatic and Fragrant

  • Curry leaves and chilies provide a fragrant aroma that enhances the overall taste.

4. Visually Appealing

  • The golden brown cereal and vibrant curry leaves create an enticing presentation.

5. Versatile and Adaptable

  • Can be adjusted to suit different dietary preferences and spice levels.

Where to Find the Best Cereal Prawn in Singapore

If you’re in Singapore and craving a plate of delicious Cereal Prawn, here are some recommended places:

  • No Signboard Seafood – Famous for their seafood dishes, including Cereal Prawn.
  • Jumbo Seafood – A well-known restaurant offering high-quality seafood cuisine.
  • Long Beach Seafood – Known for their fresh and flavorful Cereal Prawn.
  • Chomp Chomp Food Centre – A great place to find affordable yet tasty versions of the dish.

Conclusion

Cereal Prawn is a dish that encapsulates the essence of Singaporean cuisine—rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. Whether enjoyed at a restaurant or made at home, this dish is a true delight for seafood lovers. With its crispy cereal coating, fragrant curry leaves, and juicy prawns, it is no surprise that Cereal Prawn remains one of Singapore’s most beloved dishes. If you haven’t tried it yet, be sure to indulge in this culinary gem the next time you have the chance!