How To Grill Prawns With Shell On

Grilling prawns with the shell on is a delicious way to enjoy this seafood delicacy. The shell helps to lock in the flavor and moisture, resulting in juicy and succulent prawns. If you're looking to impress your friends and family with a mouthwatering grilled prawn dish, then you've come to the right place. In this guide, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of grilling prawns with the shell on to perfection.

Choosing the Perfect Prawns

Before you start grilling, it's essential to select the right prawns. Look for fresh, high-quality prawns with firm, translucent flesh and a pleasant sea smell. Make sure the prawns are deveined, as this will make them easier to eat and enhance their presentation.

Preparing the Prawns

Once you have your prawns, it's time to prepare them for the grill. Follow these simple steps:

1. Thaw the prawns if they're frozen by placing them in the refrigerator overnight.
2. Rinse the prawns under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Gently loosen the shell from the flesh, keeping the shell intact.
4. Using a sharp knife, make a shallow incision along the back of each prawn to remove the vein.

Marinating the Prawns

Marinating the prawns will infuse them with flavor and help keep them moist during grilling. You can create a simple marinade using olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Place the prawns in a bowl, pour the marinade over them, and toss to coat evenly. Let the prawns marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour.

Grilling the Prawns

Now comes the fun part – firing up the grill! Follow these steps to grill the prawns to perfection:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent the prawns from sticking.
3. Place the prawns on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
4. Avoid overcooking the prawns, as they can become rubbery and lose their natural sweetness.

Serving the Grilled Prawns

Once the prawns are grilled to perfection, it's time to serve them up. You can enjoy them as a standalone dish or incorporate them into other recipes, such as pasta, salads, or tacos. Garnish the grilled prawns with fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, and a drizzle of olive oil for an extra burst of flavor.

Final Thoughts

Grilling prawns with the shell on is a fantastic way to elevate your seafood grilling game. With the right preparation and cooking techniques, you can savor the natural sweetness and juiciness of prawns in every bite. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a taste of the ocean, grilled prawns are sure to be a hit. So, fire up the grill and get ready to impress your taste buds with this delectable dish!