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Golden Crunch: Addictive Cereal Prawns in Minutes

Succulent prawns enveloped in a sweet and savory crispy cereal coating.

Janelle

By Janelle

Updated: January 18, 2026

Why I Love This Recipe

Cereal prawns are a beloved dish, particularly popular in Singapore and Malaysia, often found in hawker centers and seafood restaurants. The origin is debated, but its appeal is undeniable - the textural contrast of juicy prawns against the crunchy, slightly sweet cereal is a delight. Recreating this dish at home might seem daunting, but this recipe simplifies the process, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. This recipe delivers the addictive flavors and satisfying crunch you crave in a fraction of the time, perfect for a weeknight treat or a special occasion.

  • •Unbeatable Texture Contrast - The crispy, golden cereal coating provides a delightful crunch against the tender, juicy prawn.
  • •Sweet and Savory Harmony - The interplay of sweet cereal with the savory prawn and aromatics creates a balanced and addictive flavor profile.
  • •Ready in Under 30 Minutes - From prep to plate, this dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • •Surprisingly Simple - This recipe breaks down the traditional method into easy-to-follow steps, even for beginner cooks.
  • •Kid-Friendly Appeal - The cereal coating makes this a surprisingly appealing dish for kids, encouraging them to try seafood.

Ingredients You'll Need

Here's what you'll need – nothing too fancy, just good ingredients that work together beautifully.

  • 1 lb Large prawns (peeled and deveined)
  • 1 Egg (lightly beaten)
  • 1/4 cup Cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp White pepper
  • 3 cups Kellogg's Corn Flakes (lightly crushed)
  • 3 tbsp Butter (unsalted)
  • 1/4 cup Curry leaves
  • 2-3 Bird's eye chilies (finely chopped, adjust to taste)
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Pat the prawns dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a crispy coating, as excess moisture will prevent the cornstarch from adhering properly.

    ~2 min

  2. 2

    In a bowl, combine the prawns with salt and white pepper. Toss to ensure the prawns are evenly seasoned, which will enhance their natural flavor.

    ~1 min

  3. 3

    Dip the seasoned prawns in the beaten egg, ensuring they are fully coated. The egg acts as a binder, helping the cornstarch and cereal adhere to the prawns.

    ~2 min

  4. 4

    Dredge the egg-coated prawns in cornstarch, shaking off any excess. This creates a light, even coating that will help the cereal adhere and crisp up nicely when fried.

    ~2 min

  5. 5

    Finally, coat the cornstarch-covered prawns with the crushed corn flakes, pressing gently to ensure the cereal adheres well. Make sure the prawns are completely covered for maximum crunch in every bite.

    ~3 min

  6. 6

    Heat the butter in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt completely and shimmer, but be careful not to let it burn.

    ~1 min

  7. 7

    Add the minced garlic, curry leaves, and chopped chilies to the melted butter. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

    ~1 min

  8. 8

    Add the cereal-coated prawns to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy prawns.

    ~1 min

  9. 9

    Cook the prawns for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and cooked through, and the cereal coating is golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent the cereal from burning.

    ~3 min

  10. 10

    Remove the cooked prawns from the skillet and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil. This helps maintain the crispy texture.

    ~1 min

  11. 11

    Serve immediately while hot and crispy. Enjoy these addictive cereal prawns as an appetizer or main course.

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How Do I Know It's Ready?

The prawns are cooked through when they are pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, as this will make them rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry thoroughly before using.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Golden Crunch: Addictive Cereal Prawns in Minutes as much as I do! It's a wonderful dish that's sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. If you try this recipe, I'd love to hear how it turned out – feel free to share your experience and any variations you tried!