Image by Chen Yij

Longjing prawns

Feasting on Longjing prawns is an experience like few others. The glistening sheen of their shells, punctuated by the pearly white of the flesh, combined with their captivating aroma, is enough to make even the most crotchety individual salivate. But beyond these initial characteristics lie ephemeral depths of flavor that transport taste-buds to a higher plane.

Longjing prawns


The texture of a Longjing prawn is unlike any other. It's firm yet succulent, with a delightful crunch that belies its soft interior. This unique quality recalls the toothsome bite of perfectly cooked al dente pasta. The flavors of a Longjing prawn, meanwhile, are equally multifaceted. Light notes of sweetness mingle with subtle vegetal flavors, all delicately accentuated by a gentle brininess.

In fact, it's this very combination of flavors that makes Longjing prawns so sought after – and so worth seeking out. These prawns are often found in upscale Chinese restaurants, where they can be cooked according to the preferences of the diner. Whether lightly stir-fried or steamed in their shells, these crustaceans provide a truly transcendent culinary experience.

Of course, Longjing prawns can be enjoyed at home, too. If you find yourself fortunate enough to have access to fresh, live Longjing prawns, preparing them doesn't have to be difficult. A simple pan-fry will more than suffice to highlight the deliciousness of these shrimp. Otherwise, take your pick from a wide variety of recipes that showcase the distinctive characteristics of this prized seafood.

One thing is certain: no matter how you choose to enjoy Longjing prawns, it's sure to be an unforgettable culinary adventure.

The origin of Longjing prawns

Ah, Longjing prawns! One of the most beloved dishes in Chinese cuisine, and with a history quite as tasty as its flavours.

It is thought that Longjing prawns had their humble beginnings in the affluent city dining rooms of the mid-1800's, where high society would gather to enjoy fine cuisine. The dish was ofte the centerpiece at these parties and quickly developed a reputation for its exquisite flavour, combining succulent prawns with the clean, delicate taste of the famous Longjing tea.

This enchanting mixture soon became a symbol of refined taste and class, crafted with a unique combination of painstaking precision and a herbal knowledge that had has been passed down through the generations.

But it was not until the 1920's when the now iconic combination of tea and prawns earned itself a place in the hearts and minds of Chinese chefs and laypeople alike. Festival tables saw this chic entree served up, delighting guests in its exquisitely balanced flavours and uniqueness.

Since then, Longjing prawns have gone on to becoming one of China's favourite dishes, with a dedicated following the world over. Each chef strives to recreate the magic of this classic dish, experimenting with fresh herbs, spices and ingredients to make it their own.

In fact, it's become quite a cultural phenomenon! You can't truly say you understand Chinese food until you have tried Longjing prawns. A real taste of tradition and modernity, they're a must-have addition to any culinary enthusiast's menu.

FAQs about Longjing prawns

How do you drink Long Jing tea?

Long Jing tea is best enjoyed by steeping the leaves in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes. The water should just cover the leaves, and should not be boiled for too long as it can become bitter. After each steep, pour off the tea into a cup and enjoy!


What does Long Jing tea taste like?

Long Jing tea has a light, mild, and slightly sweet taste. It has a refreshing aroma and a pleasant aftertaste. Its flavor can be described as natural, grassy, and slightly nutty.


What is the best combination of prawn?

The best combination of prawns depends on personal taste, as there are many flavors and textures that can be combined to create delicious dishes. Some popular combinations include prawns served with lemon butter sauce, garlic and parsley, chilli and lime, or mango salsa.


What is the meaning of Longjing?

Longjing is a type of green tea known for its high quality. It is grown in the mountainous regions of Zhejiang Province, China and is considered one of the most famous teas in the world. The name Longjing means "dragon well" which is a nod to its place of origin where the water from a well is said to have the shape of a dragon.


Types of Longjing prawns

The Longjing prawns dish, a delectable seafood delicacy originating from the Zhejiang province of Southeast China, is one of the most exquisite culinary marvels in the world. These succulent aquatic crustaceans have been enjoyed by Chinese diners for centuries and their popularity has even spread abroad. The different types of Longjing prawns dishes are as varied and captivating as the cuisine itself.

First is the classic Longjing shrimp. This popular option consists of prawns steamed with aromatic green tea leaves, creating an intricate and delightful flavour unlike any other. The delicate flesh of the shellfish is offset by the gentle nuttiness of the tea, resulting in a unique and complex taste sensation. For those looking to indulge in a truly exquisite experience, try adding a dash of soy sauce or sesame oil to the dish.

The next type of Longjing prawn dish is poached prawns. This preparation involves carefully simmering the prawns in a hot water or broth. The result is a tender, succulent seafood treat with a mild taste that any seafood connoisseur will appreciate. To make the dish truly special, try garnishing it with some fresh herbs such as dill or parsley.

A final noteworthy variant is the tempura Longjing prawns. Here, the shrimp are dipped in a light batter and then deep-fried until golden brown. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and soft interior is simply delightful and is sure to be a hit among friends and family. As a bonus, adding some salt and pepper to the batter will create an even more dynamic flavour.

No matter which type of Longjing prawn dish you choose, you can be sure that you'll be in for a scrumptious and memorable treat. Whether you prefer the classic steaming method or are intrigued by the creative deep-frying approach, there is a Longjing prawn dish for everyone. Try some today and prepare to be delighted.