Los Angeles, with its sprawling food scene, is a paradise for those in search of authentic international flavors. Recently, I found myself drawn to the vibrant Thai flavors at Jitlada, a hidden gem tucked away on the busy streets of Hollywood. The moment I walked through the door, the rich aromas of lemongrass, spice, and sizzling dishes promised a culinary adventure. Among the many options on the menu, I couldn’t resist ordering their Lemongrass Tiger Prawns, a dish that quickly became the highlight of my visit.
The Ambiance: Cozy, Authentic, and Inviting
Jitlada’s atmosphere is the perfect balance of warmth and vibrancy, evoking the welcoming nature of Thailand itself. The colorful decor and fragrant scents from the kitchen create an immediate sense of excitement. Whether you’re seated by the window or at one of the intimate booths, there’s a sense of authenticity in every detail. The friendly staff adds to the charm, offering personal recommendations and sharing the story behind the restaurant’s celebrated dishes.
The Dish: Lemongrass Tiger Prawns
As the dish arrived at my table, the sight alone was enough to excite my senses. The Lemongrass Tiger Prawns were artfully plated, with the prawns glistening in a sauce that was both inviting and aromatic. The smell of fresh lemongrass and a hint of spice filled the air, instantly making me eager to dig in.
The prawns themselves were large and plump, perfectly cooked to retain their sweetness and natural tenderness. The sauce, a fragrant combination of lemongrass, garlic, and a delicate balance of Thai spices, enveloped each prawn with an unforgettable depth of flavor. There was a subtle heat from the chili, but it didn’t overpower the freshness of the prawns. Instead, it enhanced the dish, adding just the right amount of zing.
Each bite was a burst of contrasting flavors—savory, slightly sweet, and with that unmistakable tang of lime and lemongrass that Thai cuisine does so well. The dish was served with a side of jasmine rice, which perfectly absorbed the sauce, making it the ideal accompaniment to soak up every drop.
The Experience: A Taste of Thailand in LA
What stood out most about the Lemongrass Tiger Prawns was the balance of flavors. The freshness of the prawns combined with the aromatic spices created a dish that felt both comforting and exciting. It’s the kind of food that doesn’t just fill your stomach but transports you to another place—a place where the sun is always shining, and every meal is a celebration.
As I savored each bite, I couldn’t help but think about how rare it is to find such authentic flavors outside of Thailand itself. Jitlada has mastered the art of Thai cooking, and this dish is a testament to their commitment to bringing the best of Thai street food to Los Angeles.
Conclusion: A Must-Visit Culinary Destination
For anyone seeking an unforgettable Thai food experience in Los Angeles, Jitlada is a must-visit. The Lemongrass Tiger Prawns alone make it worth the trip, but the rest of the menu offers just as much promise. Whether you’re a seasoned lover of Thai cuisine or a first-time visitor, Jitlada promises to take your taste buds on a journey you won’t soon forget.
So, if you find yourself in Los Angeles, don’t miss out on the chance to indulge in the bold, aromatic flavors at Jitlada. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Homemade Lemongrass Tiger Prawns Recipe
Inspired by the incredible flavors I tasted at Jitlada, I thought I’d share a homemade recipe for Lemongrass Tiger Prawns that will bring the same bold, aromatic flavors straight to your kitchen. It’s a perfect dish to recreate the magic of Jitlada in your own home.
Zesty Lemongrass Prawn Ceviche
Dive into the vibrant flavors of our Zesty Lemongrass Prawn Ceviche! Perfectly fresh Lemongrass Tiger Prawns marinated in tangy lime juice, paired with crisp vegetables and aromatic herbs. This dish is a celebration of summer freshness, ideal for light meals or elegant appetizers. Experience the perfect balance of heat and zest, crafted to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quick, healthy meal, this ceviche promises a burst of delightful flavors with every bite. Get ready to impress with this easy-to-make, customizable recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
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Ingredients
1 pound Lemongrass Tiger Prawns peeled and diced into ½-inch pieces
1/2 medium red onion thinly sliced along the grain
1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes halved
1 cup cucumber diced
3/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice approximately 4-6 ripe limes
1-2 cloves garlic finely minced
1 fresh serrano or jalapeño pepper seeded and finely chopped
1/4 to 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
1 to 1.5 tsp kosher salt adjusted to taste
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil optional
1 semi-firm avocado diced, optional
2/3 cup avocado for optional avocado sauce
1/3 cup cilantro for optional avocado sauce
2/3 cup water for optional avocado sauce
1 tbsp olive oil for optional avocado sauce
1/2 tsp kosher salt for optional avocado sauce
1 tsp coriander for optional avocado sauce
2 tbsp lime juice for optional avocado sauce
1 clove garlic for optional avocado sauce
cracked pepper to taste for optional avocado sauce
- Alternative Ingredients:
Lemongrass Tiger Prawns: Substitute with firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Red Onion: Use shallots for a milder flavor.
Serrano or Jalapeño Chili: Replace with a milder pepper like poblano if less heat is desired.
Lime Juice: Lemon juice can be used as an alternative.
Olive Oil: Avocado oil or another neutral oil can be substituted.
Avocado: Use mango for a different sweetness or omit entirely for a lighter version.
Directions
- Prepare the Onion Base: Begin by thinly slicing half a red onion along the grain. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced onions with kosher salt, black pepper, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Ensure the onions are well-coated to enhance their flavor. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the onions to soften and absorb the citrusy notes.
- Marinate the Prawns: Add the diced Lemongrass Tiger Prawns to the bowl with the onions. Incorporate the finely minced garlic and chopped serrano or jalapeño chili. Gently mix all ingredients together, ensuring the prawns are evenly distributed and begin to absorb the marinade. Allow this to marinate for approximately 15 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
- Combine Vegetables and Herbs: Introduce the halved grape tomatoes, diced cucumber, and chopped fresh cilantro to the prawn mixture. If using, drizzle in the olive oil for added richness. Stir the mixture carefully to combine all elements without breaking down the prawns. This step adds freshness and texture to the ceviche.
- Chill and Develop Flavors: Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to an hour. The extended marinating time deepens the flavors and ensures the prawns are perfectly ‘cooked’ by the lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or chilies if desired before serving.
- Add Optional Avocado: If opting for avocado, gently fold in the diced avocado right before serving to maintain its creamy texture. Alternatively, prepare the Avocado Sauce by blending all sauce ingredients until smooth, adding more water or oil as needed. Serve the ceviche with the sauce on the side or mixed in for added flavor.
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Citrus Juicer
- Mixing Bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- Food Processor
- blender
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 6.3g
- Saturated Fat: 1.3g
- Cholesterol: 31mg
- Sodium: 637mg
- Potassium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3.1g
- Sugar: 3.2g
- Protein: 15.5g
- Vitamin A: 20IU
- Vitamin C: 30mg
- Calcium: 50mg
- Iron: 2mg
