How To Grill Large Prawns In Shells

Grilling large prawns in their shells is a delicious way to enjoy these succulent seafood treats. The shells help to lock in moisture and flavor, resulting in juicy, tender prawns with a hint of smokiness from the grill. If you're looking to impress your friends and family at your next barbecue, follow these simple steps to grill large prawns in their shells to perfection.

Choosing the Right Prawns

Before you start grilling, it's important to select the right prawns. Look for large, fresh prawns with their shells still intact. The shells will protect the delicate flesh from the intense heat of the grill and help to keep the prawns juicy and flavorful.

Preparing the Prawns

Once you have your prawns, it's time to prepare them for the grill. Start by rinsing the prawns under cold water to remove any debris or dirt. Pat them dry with paper towels, and then carefully use a sharp knife to make a shallow incision along the back of each prawn to remove the digestive tract. This step will help ensure that your grilled prawns are both delicious and visually appealing.

Marinating the Prawns

To infuse the prawns with even more flavor, consider marinating them before grilling. A simple marinade of olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and a sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper will complement the natural sweetness of the prawns. Place the prawns in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, pour the marinade over them, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour.

Grilling the Prawns

Now it's time to fire up the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent the prawns from sticking. Place the marinated prawns directly on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shells turn pink and the flesh becomes opaque. Be careful not to overcook the prawns, as they can become rubbery and lose their natural sweetness.

Serving the Grilled Prawns

Once the prawns are done, carefully remove them from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. For an extra burst of flavor, consider brushing the grilled prawns with a bit of melted butter or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Accompaniments

Grilled prawns in their shells are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving them with a side of tangy cocktail sauce, a zesty chimichurri or a simple squeeze of fresh lemon. For a complete meal, serve the grilled prawns alongside a crisp green salad or a mound of fluffy quinoa.

Conclusion

Grilling large prawns in their shells is a simple yet impressive way to elevate your next barbecue or outdoor gathering. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy juicy, flavorful prawns with a hint of smokiness from the grill. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or just looking to expand your grilling repertoire, give this recipe a try and impress your guests with your newfound grilling prowess.

Share your tips and techniques for grilling large prawns in their shells in the Cooking Techniques forum.

FAQ:

What is the best way to prepare large prawns for grilling?

The best way to prepare large prawns for grilling is to start by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Next, use a sharp knife to make a shallow slit along the back of each prawn to remove the intestinal tract. Finally, brush the prawns with olive oil and season them with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.

How should I grill large prawns in their shells?

To grill large prawns in their shells, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the prawns directly on the grill grates and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shells are pink and the flesh is opaque. Be sure to turn the prawns only once during cooking to ensure they cook evenly.

What are some seasoning options for grilled large prawns?

There are many seasoning options for grilled large prawns, including simple options like salt, pepper, and garlic powder, as well as more complex options like a marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro. You can also add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a bit of heat.

How can I prevent large prawns from sticking to the grill?

To prevent large prawns from sticking to the grill, make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled before placing the prawns on them. Additionally, brushing the prawns with a light coating of oil before grilling can help create a barrier between the prawns and the grill grates.

What is the best way to serve grilled large prawns in shells?

Grilled large prawns in shells are best served hot off the grill, either on their own as a flavorful appetizer or as part of a larger seafood feast. You can also serve them over a bed of mixed greens with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a light and refreshing dish.

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