BBQ prawns are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or just looking for a quick and easy meal, grilled prawns are sure to satisfy your taste buds. With a variety of marinades and grilling techniques to choose from, you can easily customise this dish to suit your preferences.
To prepare the prawns, you'll need to start by cleaning and deveining them. This can be done by removing the head, shell, and tail, and then making a shallow cut along the back to remove the vein. Once the prawns are cleaned, you can marinate them in your favourite sauce or seasoning for added flavour.
When it comes to grilling, there are a few different techniques you can use to achieve the perfect BBQ prawns. Some people prefer to grill them on skewers, while others like to cook them directly on the grill. Whichever method you choose, be sure to keep a close eye on the prawns to avoid overcooking them.
Key Takeaways
- BBQ prawns are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can be customised to suit your preferences.
- To prepare prawns, start by cleaning and deveining them, and then marinate them in your favourite sauce or seasoning.
- When grilling prawns, keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Preparing the Prawns
Before you can cook your prawns on the BBQ, you need to prepare them properly. This involves cleaning and deveining them, as well as marinating them for added flavour.
Cleaning and Deveining
To clean your prawns, start by removing the shell. You can do this by gently pulling it off, starting from the head and working your way down to the tail. Once the shell is removed, you will need to devein the prawn. This involves removing the black or brown vein that runs down the back of the prawn. You can do this by making a shallow cut along the back of the prawn with a sharp knife and then pulling out the vein with the tip of the knife.
Marinating for Flavour
Marinating your prawns is a great way to add extra flavour and juiciness to your BBQ dish. To make a simple marinade, mix together some garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, chilli flakes and parsley in a bowl. Add your prawns to the bowl and toss them in the marinade until they are well coated. Cover the bowl with cling film and leave the prawns to marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Once your prawns are cleaned, deveined and marinated, they are ready to be cooked on the BBQ. The result will be a delicious dish with a crispy texture and a burst of flavour in every bite.
Grilling Techniques
Choosing the Right Equipment
When it comes to grilling prawns, having the right equipment is key. You can use an outdoor grill, a grill pan, or a griddle pan. If you're using an outdoor grill, make sure to preheat it to the desired temperature before placing the prawns on the grill. If you're using a grill pan or a griddle pan, make sure to heat it up on high heat before placing the prawns on it.
Mastering the Grill Time and Temperature
Grilling prawns requires careful attention to time and temperature. Overcooked prawns can become tough and rubbery, so it's important to keep an eye on them while they're on the grill. The ideal temperature for grilling prawns is around 200-220°C. Cook the prawns for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. The prawns should have a nice char on the surface from the grill, but not be burnt.
Serving Suggestions
Once your prawns are cooked to perfection, it's time to serve them up. Prawns pair well with crusty bread and a dipping sauce, such as garlic butter or aioli. Lemon wedges are also a great addition to add a burst of freshness to the dish. If you're using bamboo skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best marinade for barbecued prawns?
The best marinade for barbecued prawns is one that complements their natural flavour. You can use a simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice to enhance the taste of the prawns. You can also add some herbs and spices to the marinade for added flavour.
How can you tell if prawns are properly cooked on the barbecue?
The best way to tell if prawns are properly cooked on the barbecue is by checking their colour. Prawns should turn pink and opaque when they are cooked. You can also check the texture of the prawns. They should be firm to the touch but not rubbery.
What's the ideal time for grilling prawns?
The ideal time for grilling prawns depends on their size. Large prawns can take up to 5 minutes to cook, while smaller ones can be cooked in 2-3 minutes. It's important to not overcook the prawns as they can become tough and rubbery.
Is it better to grill prawns with their shells on or off?
It's better to grill prawns with their shells on as this helps to keep them moist and juicy. The shells also add flavour to the prawns. However, if you prefer to remove the shells, make sure to brush the prawns with some oil to prevent them from sticking to the grill.
Can you give tips for making prawn skewers on the BBQ?
To make prawn skewers on the BBQ, start by soaking the skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning. Thread the prawns onto the skewers and brush them with some oil. Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the prawns are pink and opaque.
What's the method for grilling prawns in an oven or a pan?
To grill prawns in an oven, preheat the oven to 200°C and place the prawns on a baking sheet. Brush them with some oil and season them with salt and pepper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the prawns are pink and opaque.
To grill prawns in a pan, heat some oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the prawns and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque.