Efate Lagoon Chilli-Lime Prawns & Green Papaya – Authentic Vanuatu Recipe
Bright, zesty Port Vila harbor prawn stir-fry with crisp vegetables and herbs.
- Country of Origin
- 🇻🇺 Vanuatu (Melanesia, Oceania)
- Dietary Profile
- pescatarian
- Prep Time
- 15 min
- Cook Time
- 20 min
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Signature Staples
- Wild island prawns, Julienned zucchini/green papaya, Fresh mint, Bird’s eye chili, Lime juice
Ingredients for Efate Lagoon Chilli-Lime Prawns & Green Papaya (4 Servings)
- 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) wild island prawns, prepped into bite-sized pieces
- 1.5 cups julienned zucchini/green papaya, washed and trimmed
- 1 cup fresh mint
- 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with bird’s eye chili
- 1.5 tbsp traditional Vanuatu seasoning (lime juice, garlic, ginger)
- 2.5 tbsp traditional cooking oil, sea salt, cracked black pepper, and fresh citrus or herbs
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Heat oil in a wide heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sauté onion, garlic, and bird’s eye chili for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add wild island prawns and julienned zucchini/green papaya along with lime juice, garlic, ginger, searing for 8–10 minutes while tossing occasionally.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of broth or citrus so the caramelized fond coats every bite.
- Garnish with fresh mint and serve straight from the skillet.