Gambas Pil Pil Inspired Prawns

Pour the water for the rice (see pantry for amount) into a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.

Stir in the rice and 1/4 tsp salt and bring to the boil. Once boiling, turn the heat down to medium and cover with the lid.

Leave to cook for 10 mins, then remove the pan from the heat (still covered) and leave to the side for another 10 mins or until ready to serve (the rice will continue to cook in its own steam).

Meanwhile, pop the sliced peppers onto a large baking tray. Drizzle with oil, season with salt and pepper, then toss to coat.

When the oven is hot, roast on the top shelf until soft and slightly charred, 14-16 mins.

Next, drain the prawns. IMPORTANT: Wash your hands and equipment after handling raw prawns.

While everything cooks, heat the olive oil for the sauce (see pantry for amount) in a large frying pan on medium heat.

Once hot, add the onion and season with salt and pepper. Fry until soft and sweet, 8-10 mins.

Stir in the chilli flakes (add less if you'd prefer things milder) and garlic. Cook for 2-3 mins.

Add the red wine vinegar and allow it to bubble away until evaporated, 1 min.

Stir the tomato puree and smoked paprika into the pan. Cook until fragrant, 1 min.

Pour in the water for the sauce (see pantry for amount) and bring to the boil. Stir in the prawns, sugar for the sauce (see pantry for amount) and veg stock paste.

Cook until the sauce has thickened and the prawns are cooked, 5-6 mins. IMPORTANT: The prawns are cooked when pink on the outside and opaque in the middle. 

Add the spinach to the pan a handful at a time until wilted and piping hot, 1-2 mins.