Cooking prawn crackers is easy when you know how. All you need is a deep frying pan, oil with a high smoke point, and the prawn cracker discs. Below you will take each step to help you cook the perfect prawn crackers or watch our video that walks you through the process.
What you need to cook prawn crackers
- Deep frying pan
- High smoke point oil
- Prawn crackers
Frying Pan
The frying pan has to be deep to deep fry the prawn crackers. A large frying pan means that you can cook lots at a time without overcrowding the prawn crackers.
High smoke point oil
Use a high smoke point oil like vegetable, sunflower, or groundnut for frying prawn crackers, as they handle high heat without breaking down or adding unwanted flavours. Avoid olive oil—it’s expensive, smokes easily, and overpowers the taste. You can reuse the oil after frying; let it cool, strain out any residue, and store it in an airtight container. However, limit reuse to a few times to maintain food quality and taste.
Uncooked Prawn crackers
Uncooked prawn cracker discs are a budget-friendly, long-lasting snack option available at most Asian supermarkets or online. When stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, they can last up to a year unopened, or a few weeks once opened. Easy to prepare, they’re ideal for snacking or as a side dish.
Are Prawn Crackers A Healthy Snack?
While not the healthiest snack, prawn crackers can be enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet. They are deep-fried, making them high in fat, and typically contain salty seasonings.
How to Cook Prawn Crackers
To cook prawn crackers, heat oil to 180–190°C (350–375°F) and test with a small piece—it should puff up quickly. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels, a rack, or sieve. Always handle hot oil with care using heat-resistant tools. For best results, fry in small batches, use high-smoke point oils like sunflower or vegetable, and ensure crackers are dry.
You can also bake for a lighter option. Crackers are best fresh but can stay crispy for a day or two in an airtight container if cooled before sealing. Serve with sweet chilli, soy-sesame, or vinegar-based dips for extra flavour. You can explore our popular sauces from around the world to find unique flavours to your prawn crackers.
Prawn Crackers - Frequently Asked Questions
Are vegan prawn crackers available?
Yes, vegan prawn crackers are available at specialty stores and online. Instead of shrimp, they use plant-based ingredients like tapioca or rice flour, along with natural flavorings. Some brands enhance the taste with seaweed or mushrooms to mimic the classic umami flavour.
How can I make prawn crackers healthier?
To make prawn crackers healthier, try baking or air frying to reduce oil and calories, or use a lower-fat oil. Control portion sizes to limit intake. To make them less greasy, drain well after frying by placing on paper towels or a wire rack, and use a slotted spoon to lift and gently shake off excess oil.
What occasion are prawn crackers eaten?
Prawn crackers are enjoyed at various occasions, from casual snack times to festive gatherings. Prawn crackers are a popular snack during celebrations like Diwali, where they add a crunchy flavourful snack to your holiday spread.
Are there any alternatives to prawn crackers for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, there are gluten-free alternatives to traditional prawn crackers. You can look for rice crackers or tapioca-based crackers, which are usually gluten-free. Make sure to check the packaging for any added gluten-containing ingredients and cross-contamination risks.
