Los Angeles is a city that buzzes with culinary energy, offering a diverse range of flavors from around the world. On my recent trip, I had the pleasure of visiting Jitlada, a well-loved Thai restaurant that has earned a reputation for its bold, flavorful dishes. Nestled in the heart of the city, Jitlada has become a destination for food lovers looking for authentic Thai cuisine with a modern twist.
First Impressions: A Warm and Inviting Atmosphere
From the moment I stepped into Jitlada, I was greeted by the warm aroma of spices and herbs wafting through the air. The interior is cozy yet vibrant, with colorful murals and soft lighting that set the stage for a memorable meal. The friendly staff immediately made me feel at home, offering suggestions from the menu that would leave me craving more.
The Star of the Show: Lemongrass Tiger Prawns
As a seafood lover, I knew I had to try the Lemongrass Tiger Prawns, a standout dish that is both fresh and bursting with flavor. Served with a medley of herbs and spices, the prawns were perfectly cooked—juicy, tender, and infused with the bold essence of lemongrass. Each bite offered a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy notes, thanks to the combination of lemongrass, garlic, and a hint of chili.
The prawns were paired with a fragrant, lightly spiced sauce that complemented the natural sweetness of the seafood. The fresh cilantro and lime added a refreshing zing, while the crispy vegetables provided a pleasant crunch that enhanced the overall texture. Every component of this dish came together harmoniously, creating a bold and unforgettable flavor experience.
The Perfect Pairing: A Drink to Compliment the Heat
To balance the heat from the dish, I paired my Lemongrass Tiger Prawns with a cool Thai iced tea. The rich, creamy sweetness of the tea was the perfect antidote to the spicy notes of the prawns, creating a perfect harmony between food and drink.
When you visit Jitlada, you’re not just going out for dinner—you’re embarking on a culinary adventure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, every meal feels like a special occasion. The restaurant has earned its place in the hearts of LA foodies thanks to its dedication to quality, authenticity, and bold flavors. If you haven’t yet experienced Jitlada’s delicious dishes, it’s time to make a reservation and discover what makes this Thai restaurant a must-visit in Los Angeles.
Why Jitlada?
Jitlada stands out not just for its exceptional food but also for its commitment to authentic flavors and unique twists on traditional Thai dishes. The Lemongrass Tiger Prawns were a true testament to this philosophy—fresh ingredients, bold spices, and expert preparation made for a dish that transported me straight to the heart of Thailand. Whether you’re a local or visiting LA, Jitlada is a must-visit for anyone craving Thai food that’s both comforting and exciting. The Lemongrass Tiger Prawns alone are worth the trip, but there’s so much more to explore on the menu.
As my meal came to a close, I couldn’t help but smile, knowing that I had just experienced one of the best seafood dishes in the city. For anyone looking for an unforgettable culinary adventure in Los Angeles, Jitlada is a place you’ll want to visit time and time again.
A Culinary Destination in Los Angeles
As my meal came to a close, I couldn’t help but smile, knowing that I had just experienced one of the best seafood dishes in the city. For anyone looking for an unforgettable culinary adventure in Los Angeles, Jitlada is a place you’ll want to visit time and time again. From the warm atmosphere to the exceptional food, Jitlada offers an immersive dining experience that leaves you wanting more.
If you’re in the Los Angeles area, don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit Jitlada. Whether you’re craving bold, spicy curries or delicate seafood, the flavors and experience will make you feel like you’ve taken a trip straight to Thailand.
Bring Jitlada Home: Homemade Lemongrass Tiger Prawns Recipe
If you’re inspired by the delicious Lemongrass Tiger Prawns from Jitlada and want to recreate a taste of Thailand in your kitchen, you’re in for a treat. While nothing can fully replicate the magic of dining at Jitlada, this homemade version will bring bold flavors to your table. It’s a simple recipe that combines fresh ingredients with aromatic spices, perfect for impressing your family or guests.
Spicy Lemong Prawn Stir-Fry
Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand with our Spicy Lemongrass Prawn Stir-Fry! This tantalizing dish combines succulent N/A with aromatic herbs and a perfect balance of heat and tang. Ideal for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner, it brings the essence of a bustling Thai street market right to your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is simple, customizable, and sure to impress your family and friends. Dive into a symphony of spicy, sour, and savory notes that will leave your taste buds dancing!
4
servings40
minutes30
minutes350
kcal20
minutes1
hour30
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- For the Stir-Fry
1 lb large tiger prawns heads on
1 head garlic separated into cloves with roots trimmed
3 shallots peeled and halved
1.5 stalks lemongrass finely chopped
4-5 dried red chilies
salt pinch
4-6 Thai chilies stems removed and bruised
- Herbs and Seasonings
4 kaffir lime leaves thinly sliced
1-1.5 lime juice to taste
2-2.5 tbsp fish sauce
0.5-1 tbsp palm sugar
2 tbsp cilantro chopped for garnish
- Oils
0.25 cup peanut oil
- Alternative Ingredients:
Prawns: Use firm tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Fish Sauce: Substitute with soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
Palm Sugar: Replace with brown sugar or coconut sugar to maintain sweetness.
Peanut Oil: Use vegetable oil or olive oil if allergic to peanuts.
Dried Red Chilies: Substitute with chili flakes or smoked paprika for similar heat.
Shallots: Use regular onions as an alternative.
Kaffir Lime Leaves: Omit or replace with lime zest for a citrusy flavor.
Directions
- Preparing the Prawns – Using scissors, carefully cut the back of each prawn shell near the tail end without severing it. With a sharp knife, butterfly the prawns by slicing deeply along the shell but not cutting through completely. Remove any black veins, ensuring the shells and heads remain intact. Rinse and drain the prawns, then let them sit at room temperature for at least 20 minutes to enhance flavor absorption.
- Roasting Garlic and Shallots – Preheat your oven to 450°F. Separate the cloves from one head of garlic, trimming the root ends while keeping the skins on. Similarly, prepare three shallots by cutting off their root tips. Arrange the garlic and shallots on a baking sheet and roast until softened—about 10 minutes for garlic and 15-20 minutes for shallots. This roasting process mellows their sharpness and adds depth to the dish.
- Preparing Lemongrass and Chilies – Trim the woody ends off the lemongrass stalks, removing the tough outer layers. Finely chop the remaining inner stalks and set them aside in a covered bowl to maintain freshness. In a dry skillet, roast the dried red chilies with a pinch of salt over medium heat until they darken and slightly char, stirring frequently. Allow them to cool, then grind into a fine powder using a spice grinder, preparing a flavorful chili base.
- Making the Spice Paste – Once the roasted garlic and shallots have cooled, peel off their skins and combine them in a mortar and pestle along with the ground red chili powder. Mash them into a smooth, well-blended paste, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly integrated. This paste will serve as the aromatic foundation for the stir-fry.
- Cooking the Prawns – Heat a wok over high heat until it’s smoking hot. Add 3 tablespoons of peanut oil, swirling to coat the wok surface, and let it heat for about 15-20 seconds. Carefully add the prepared prawns, searing them for 1-2 minutes until the shells turn pink. Once seared, remove the prawns from the wok and set aside.
- Building the Flavor Base – Add an additional 2-3 tablespoons of peanut oil to the wok and heat for another 15-20 seconds. Introduce the roasted garlic and shallot paste, sautéing for about 15-20 seconds to release their aromas. Stir in the prepared lemongrass, sliced kaffir lime leaves, and crushed Thai chilies, continuing to stir-fry for another 30 seconds to a minute until the mixture is fragrant and well-blended.
- Seasoning and Combining – Pour in the fish sauce, palm sugar, and lime juice, adjusting quantities to taste for a balanced sweet, salty, and tangy flavor profile. Allow the liquid to reduce until the mixture thickens and becomes almost dry. Return the seared prawns to the wok, tossing them in the flavorful lemongrass mixture for an additional 1-2 minutes until they are just cooked through.
- Final Touches and Serving – Transfer the stir-fried prawns to a serving platter, garnishing with fresh cilantro. Serve promptly alongside steamed rice and other dishes to complete a shared Thai-style meal. For added authenticity, consider pairing with a crisp cucumber salad or a bowl of jasmine rice.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- stainless steel cookware set
- food processor
- spice grinder
- mixing bowls
- roasting pan
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Potassium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Vitamin A: 500IU
- Vitamin C: 30mg
- Calcium: 50mg
- Iron: 3mg
