Kung Pao Spaghetti with Prawns
This kung pao spaghetti with prawns is a delicious fusion recipe that combines classic Chinese-inspired flavours with perfectly cooked pasta.
Loaded with juicy prawns, crunchy peanuts, fresh vegetables, and a savoury spicy sauce, this easy dinner is perfect for busy nights when you want something bold and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Packed with bold Asian flavours
- Perfect balance of spice and savoury sauce
- Great fusion-style dinner idea
- Easy to customise with chicken or vegetables
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- Spaghetti
For the Prawns
- Peeled green prawns
- Chinese rice wine
- Sesame oil
- Soy sauce
- Cornflour
For the Sauce
- Sugar
- Chinese black vinegar
- Soy sauce
- Cornflour
For the Stir-Fry
- Peanut oil
- Roasted peanuts
- Garlic
- Fresh ginger
- Dried red chillies or chilli flakes
- Brown onion
- Red capsicum
- Green shallots
- Choy sum
How to Make Kung Pao Spaghetti with Prawns
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente.
Drain and keep warm.
Step 2: Marinate the Prawns
In a bowl, combine:
- Prawns
- Chinese rice wine
- Sesame oil
- Soy sauce
- Cornflour
Mix well and set aside.
In a separate bowl, combine:
- Sugar
- Black vinegar
- Soy sauce
- Cornflour
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Prawns
Heat peanut oil in a wok or frying pan over high heat.
Cook peanuts until golden, then remove.
Add:
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Chillies
Stir-fry until fragrant.
Cook prawns in batches until golden and just cooked through.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
Add onion and capsicum to the wok and stir-fry until tender-crisp.
Add shallots and cook briefly.
Return prawns to the wok along with the sauce mixture.
Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Blanch the choy sum.
Add the prawn mixture to the spaghetti and toss well.
Serve topped with:
- Choy sum
- Roasted peanuts
Tips for the Best Kung Pao Spaghetti
- Don’t overcook the prawns
- Use high heat for proper stir-fry flavour
- Adjust chilli levels to your preference
- Toss spaghetti thoroughly so it absorbs the sauce
- Fresh ginger adds the best flavour
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs perfectly with:
- Steamed greens
- Asian cucumber salad
- Spring rolls
- Lime wedges
- Iced jasmine tea
Recipe Variations
Chicken Version
Replace prawns with thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh.
Vegetarian Option
Use tofu or mushrooms instead of prawns.
Extra Heat
Add extra chilli flakes or fresh sliced chillies.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
- Reheat quickly in a hot pan or microwave
- Best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture
Final Thoughts
This kung pao spaghetti with prawns is the perfect fusion of spicy Asian stir-fry flavours and comforting pasta. It’s quick, satisfying, and packed with bold flavours that make it ideal for easy weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.