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Steamed Prawn Cheek
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Steamed Prawn Cheek

Penaeus vannamei

Clinical Encyclopedia

Steamed prawn cheek is a delicacy known for its tender texture and rich flavor, often enjoyed in various cuisines around the world. It is a nutritious seafood option, high in protein and low in calories.

Also known as:
Prawn CheekShrimp Cheek
Scientific NamePenaeus vannamei
Region of OriginSoutheast Asia

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories99 kcal
Water
80%
Fiber0g
Total22.0g
Protein
20.3g(92%)
Fats
1.2g(5%)
Carbohydrates
0.5g(2%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin B121.1 µg (46%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Selenium39 µg (71%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
Contains omega-3 fatty acids which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
A good source of selenium, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
Low in calories, making it an excellent choice for weight management.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to shellfish.
!Improperly cooked seafood can lead to foodborne illnesses.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed steamed to retain its delicate flavor and nutritional value. Pair with light sauces or fresh herbs for enhanced taste.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose prawn cheek that is firm, translucent, and has a mild ocean scent. Avoid any with a strong fishy odor or discoloration.

How to Store

Keep prawn cheek refrigerated and consume within 1-2 days. If freezing, wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Myths vs Realities

MythEating seafood can increase cholesterol levels.
RealityMost seafood, including prawn cheek, is low in saturated fat and can actually help improve cholesterol levels.
MythAll seafood is high in mercury.
RealityPrawn cheek is low in mercury compared to larger fish, making it a safer seafood choice.
MythYou should avoid shellfish if you have high blood pressure.
RealityShellfish can be part of a heart-healthy diet when consumed in moderation.

Healthy Recipes

Citrus Steamed Prawn Cheek Salad

A refreshing salad featuring steamed prawn cheeks, mixed greens, and a zesty citrus dressing, perfect for a light lunch.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed prawn cheeks
  • 100g mixed salad greens
  • 1 orange, segmented
  • 1 grapefruit, segmented
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, orange, and grapefruit segments.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Toss the salad with the dressing and top with steamed prawn cheeks before serving.

Spicy Prawn Cheek Stir-Fry

A quick and spicy stir-fry with steamed prawn cheeks, bell peppers, and snap peas, served over brown rice.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed prawn cheeks
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 100g snap peas
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat and add sliced bell pepper and snap peas.
  2. 2. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
  3. 3. Add steamed prawn cheeks, soy sauce, and sriracha, stir until heated through, and serve over brown rice.

Prawn Cheek Quinoa Bowl

A nutritious quinoa bowl topped with steamed prawn cheeks, avocado, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed prawn cheeks
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, layer cooked quinoa, sliced avocado, and steamed prawn cheeks.
  2. 2. Drizzle with soy sauce and lime juice.
  3. 3. Sprinkle sesame seeds and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Herbed Prawn Cheek and Asparagus Skewers

Grilled skewers of steamed prawn cheeks and asparagus, infused with fresh herbs for a delightful appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed prawn cheeks
  • 200g asparagus, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Thread prawn cheeks and asparagus onto skewers, brush with the herb mixture, and grill for 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Prawn Cheek Coconut Curry

A creamy coconut curry featuring steamed prawn cheeks, bell peppers, and spinach, served with cauliflower rice.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed prawn cheeks
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 100g spinach
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups cauliflower rice
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a pan, add red curry paste and bell pepper, and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
  2. 2. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer, then add spinach and steamed prawn cheeks.
  3. 3. Serve the curry over cauliflower rice.

Prawn Cheek Tacos with Mango Salsa

Delicious tacos filled with steamed prawn cheeks and topped with a vibrant mango salsa for a tropical twist.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed prawn cheeks
  • 4 small corn tortillas
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro to make the salsa.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a pan or microwave.
  3. 3. Fill each tortilla with steamed prawn cheeks and top with mango salsa before serving.

Prawn Cheek and Avocado Toast

A healthy breakfast option featuring smashed avocado on whole-grain toast topped with steamed prawn cheeks.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed prawn cheeks
  • 2 slices whole-grain bread, toasted
  • 1 ripe avocado, mashed
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix mashed avocado with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Spread the avocado mixture on toasted bread.
  3. 3. Top with steamed prawn cheeks and sprinkle with red pepper flakes.

Mediterranean Prawn Cheek Pasta

A light pasta dish with steamed prawn cheeks, cherry tomatoes, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed prawn cheeks
  • 200g whole wheat pasta
  • 100g cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 50g black olives, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook whole wheat pasta according to package instructions and drain.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine pasta, cherry tomatoes, olives, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Gently fold in steamed prawn cheeks and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Prawn Cheek and Cucumber Sushi Rolls

Healthy sushi rolls filled with steamed prawn cheeks and fresh cucumber, perfect for a light snack or meal.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed prawn cheeks
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 2 cups sushi rice, cooked
  • 4 sheets nori
  • Soy sauce for dipping
  • Wasabi for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat and spread a thin layer of sushi rice over it.
  2. 2. Place steamed prawn cheeks and cucumber in the center and roll tightly.
  3. 3. Slice into pieces and serve with soy sauce and wasabi.

Prawn Cheek and Spinach Frittata

A protein-packed frittata featuring steamed prawn cheeks and spinach, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed prawn cheeks
  • 6 eggs
  • 100g spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. 2. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil and sauté spinach until wilted.
  3. 3. In a bowl, whisk eggs, add steamed prawn cheeks, feta, salt, and pepper, then pour into the skillet and bake for 20-25 minutes until set.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the health benefits of eating prawn cheek?

Prawn cheek is high in protein, low in calories, and contains essential nutrients like selenium and omega-3 fatty acids.

How should I cook prawn cheek?

Steaming is recommended to preserve its flavor and nutrients. You can also grill or sauté it with light seasonings.

Is prawn cheek safe for everyone to eat?

While generally safe, individuals with shellfish allergies should avoid it.

How can I tell if prawn cheek is fresh?

Fresh prawn cheek should have a mild ocean smell, firm texture, and translucent appearance.

Can I freeze prawn cheek?

Yes, prawn cheek can be frozen for up to three months. Ensure it is properly sealed to prevent freezer burn.

What dishes can I make with prawn cheek?

Prawn cheek can be used in salads, pasta dishes, or served as a main course with vegetables.

How many calories are in prawn cheek?

There are approximately 99 calories in a 100g serving of steamed prawn cheek.

What is the best way to store prawn cheek?

Store prawn cheek in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.