When we’re craving something truly spectacular for dinner, grilled tiger prawns never fail to deliver that perfect combination of smoky char and succulent sweetness. These magnificent crustaceans – known for their impressive size and distinctive striped shells – transform into pure culinary gold when kissed by flames.
We’ve discovered that grilling tiger prawns is one of the most rewarding cooking methods that brings out their natural briny flavor while adding that irresistible smoky depth. The high heat creates a beautiful caramelization on the outside while keeping the meat tender and juicy inside.
What makes this recipe absolutely foolproof is its simplicity – we’re talking about a dish that looks restaurant-quality but requires minimal prep time. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing an elegant weeknight dinner, these grilled tiger prawns will have everyone asking for seconds and begging for the recipe.
Ingredients
We’ve carefully selected each ingredient to maximize the natural sweetness of tiger prawns while adding layers of complementary flavors. Our ingredient list focuses on quality components that work together to create that perfect balance of smoky char and tender juiciness.
For the Tiger Prawns
- 2 pounds large tiger prawns (16-20 count per pound)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for brushing
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Marinade
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
For Serving
- 2 lemons cut into wedges
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped for garnish
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder mixed into butter
- Crusty bread or rice for serving
Equipment Needed
Having the right equipment makes grilling tiger prawns effortless and ensures perfect results every time. We recommend gathering these essential tools before you start cooking to streamline the entire process.
Grill or Grill Pan forms the foundation of our cooking setup. An outdoor charcoal grill delivers the best smoky flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of tiger prawns. Indoor grill pans work excellently as an alternative when outdoor grilling isn’t possible.
Skewers keep our prawns secure and make flipping much easier during the grilling process. Metal skewers conduct heat evenly while bamboo skewers work well when soaked in water for 30 minutes beforehand.
Tongs allow us to flip and move the prawns safely without piercing the delicate flesh. Long-handled tongs provide better control and keep our hands away from the heat.
Mixing Bowl serves as our marinating vessel where we combine all the flavorful ingredients. A medium-sized bowl gives enough space to coat the prawns thoroughly without crowding.
Basting Brush helps us apply marinades and sauces evenly throughout the cooking process. Silicone brushes withstand high heat better than natural bristles and clean up easily.
| Equipment | Purpose | Alternative Options |
|---|---|---|
| Charcoal Grill | Primary cooking surface | Gas grill or grill pan |
| Metal Skewers | Secure prawns during grilling | Bamboo skewers (soaked) |
| Long-handled Tongs | Safe flipping and handling | Regular tongs with caution |
| Medium Mixing Bowl | Marinating prawns | Large plate or shallow dish |
| Silicone Brush | Even sauce application | Natural bristle brush |
We also keep a clean plate nearby for the finished prawns and ensure our grill is preheated for 10 to 15 minutes before cooking begins. This preparation creates the perfect searing temperature that locks in moisture while developing those coveted grill marks.
Prep Instructions
Proper preparation is crucial for achieving perfectly grilled tiger prawns with maximum flavor and texture. We’ll walk you through the essential steps to clean your prawns and create a marinade that enhances their natural sweetness.
Cleaning and Preparing the Tiger Prawns
We begin by rinsing our fresh tiger prawns thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris. For the best results, we recommend using U-12 size or jumbo tiger prawns that will hold up beautifully on the grill.
The decision to keep or remove the heads depends entirely on your preference and presentation style. Using a sharp knife, we butterfly each prawn by splitting them lengthwise along their back and gently flattening them. This technique ensures even cooking and prevents the prawns from curling up on the grill.
Next, we remove the digestive tract by making a shallow cut along the back and carefully pulling out the dark vein. This step improves both the appearance and taste of our finished dish. Once cleaned, we pat the prawns dry with paper towels to help the marinade adhere better.
Making the Marinade
We start our marinade by finely chopping fresh aromatics including shallots, garlic, and chili for a flavor base that complements the prawns perfectly. Fresh coriander adds brightness while kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper provide essential seasoning.
The liquid components bring everything together as we whisk in olive oil and fresh lemon juice to create the perfect balance of richness and acidity. For additional depth, we can incorporate lime zest or experiment with specialized BBQ rubs like “Burnin’ Hot Love” for those who enjoy extra heat.
We coat each prawn thoroughly in the marinade, ensuring every surface receives an even covering. The marinated prawns go into the refrigerator covered for 1 to 3 hours, though overnight marination delivers the most intense flavor penetration. This resting time allows the aromatics to infuse deep into the prawn meat while the acid begins to gently firm the texture.
Marinating the Tiger Prawns
Now that we have our prepared prawns ready, we move to the most crucial step that transforms good grilled prawns into extraordinary ones. The marinating process allows our carefully selected aromatics to penetrate deep into the tender flesh while the citrus elements work their tenderizing magic.
We begin by placing our butterflied tiger prawns in a shallow dish where they can lie flat for maximum marinade contact. The butterflied cut we made earlier serves a dual purpose here as it creates more surface area for our flavorful marinade to work its way into the meat. We pour our prepared marinade mixture over the prawns ensuring every piece gets thoroughly coated.
Our hands work best for mixing the prawns with the marinade as we can feel when each prawn is properly covered. We gently massage the marinade into the prawns paying special attention to the opened butterfly cuts where the flavors can really sink in. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and our aromatic base creates the perfect environment for flavor infusion.
The timing of our marination depends on how deep we want those flavors to go. For a quick weeknight dinner we allow the prawns to marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator. When we have more time or want maximum flavor impact we let them rest overnight covered in the refrigerator. The acids in our lemon juice work continuously during this time breaking down proteins and ensuring our prawns will be incredibly tender when grilled.
| Marination Time | Flavor Intensity | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 hour | Light infusion | Quick weeknight meals |
| 3 hours | Medium penetration | Casual dinners |
| Overnight | Deep flavor saturation | Special occasions |
We always cover our marinating prawns with plastic wrap or place them in a sealed container to prevent any refrigerator odors from affecting their delicate flavor. About 30 minutes before we plan to start grilling we remove the prawns from the refrigerator allowing them to come to room temperature. This step ensures even cooking throughout each prawn when they hit the hot grill grates.
The marinated prawns should glisten with our herb and citrus mixture while releasing an aromatic blend that promises the incredible flavors to come. Our properly marinated tiger prawns are now ready to meet the heat of our preheated grill where they will transform into the spectacular dish we envisioned.
Grilling Instructions
Now that our prawns have absorbed all those vibrant flavors, we’re ready to transform them into grilled perfection. These crucial grilling steps will ensure our tiger prawns develop that coveted smoky char while maintaining their tender, juicy texture.
Preheating the Grill
Before we place our marinated prawns on the grill, we need to achieve the perfect cooking temperature. Preheat the grill on high heat for 10 to 15 minutes until it reaches optimal searing temperature. This extended preheating time ensures our grill grates become hot enough to create those beautiful grill marks while locking in the prawns’ natural moisture.
We recommend lightly oiling the grill grate or brushing BBQ grills with oil to prevent our delicate prawns from sticking. Use a silicone basting brush to apply a thin layer of oil evenly across the cooking surface. The grill should be very hot before we begin cooking, as this intense heat will create the signature smoky flavor we’re seeking.
Grilling the Tiger Prawns
Remove our marinated prawns from the refrigerator and arrange them directly on the preheated grill grates. For smaller prawns that might fall through the grates, we thread them onto two parallel skewers to keep them stable during cooking.
Grill the tiger prawns for 5 to 7 minutes total, turning them once halfway through the cooking process. Each side should cook for approximately 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the high heat to sear the exterior while cooking the interior evenly. We avoid moving the prawns too frequently, as this prevents proper searing and those coveted grill marks from forming.
The intense heat transforms our prawns from their translucent raw state into firm, opaque perfection. Watch for the flesh to change color as it cooks, developing that characteristic coral and orange hue that signals they’re nearly done.
Checking for Doneness
Properly cooked tiger prawns display several unmistakable visual and textural cues. The flesh transforms from translucent to completely opaque, taking on a bright coral or orange color throughout. We test doneness by gently pressing the prawns with our tongs; they should feel firm and spring back slightly when touched.
Timing is critical when grilling prawns, as they cook very quickly due to their delicate protein structure. Overcooking results in tough, rubbery prawns that lose their natural sweetness and tender texture. We remove them from the grill immediately when they reach the proper doneness indicators.
The cooked prawns should have a beautiful charred exterior with distinct grill marks while maintaining their juicy interior. Their natural sweetness becomes more concentrated through the grilling process, creating the perfect balance of smoky and sweet flavors that make this dish so irresistible.
Serving Suggestions
Our grilled tiger prawns deserve presentations that match their spectacular flavors. We recommend serving these beauties immediately after they come off the grill while they’re still sizzling hot and at peak juiciness.
Temperature and Timing
The golden rule for serving grilled tiger prawns is speed. We always plate them within minutes of grilling to preserve their tender texture and smoky aroma. Room temperature serving diminishes the impact of that beautiful char we worked so hard to achieve.
Sauce Pairings
A butter-based sauce elevates these prawns from good to extraordinary. We prepare our signature lemon garlic butter by melting butter in a small pan and lightly browning minced garlic until fragrant. Fresh lemon juice and chopped coriander get stirred in at the end. For those seeking umami depth we recommend adding seaweed butter which complements the prawns’ natural sweetness with its salty richness.
Accompaniment Options
Steamed jasmine rice provides the perfect neutral base that soaks up every drop of that flavorful sauce. Crusty artisan bread works beautifully for guests who prefer dipping into the butter mixture. We always provide fresh lemon wedges alongside the prawns because that bright citrus pop enhances their natural sweetness.
Garnish and Presentation
Fresh coriander or parsley scattered over the glazed prawns adds color and aromatic appeal. We arrange the prawns on warmed plates to maintain their temperature and drizzle any remaining sauce generously over each serving.
Serving Versatility
These grilled tiger prawns work equally well as an impressive appetizer or light main course. For casual entertaining we serve them family-style on a large platter. When hosting more formal dinners we plate them individually with carefully arranged accompaniments. The combination delivers restaurant-quality results that consistently impresses guests and transforms any meal into a memorable experience.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Tiger Prawns
Mastering the art of grilling tiger prawns requires attention to exact techniques that ensure optimal results every time. We’ve compiled essential tips that transform ordinary prawns into extraordinary culinary experiences.
Butterfly the prawns properly for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption. Cutting them lengthwise and flattening creates more surface area for marinades to penetrate while ensuring uniform heat distribution. This technique prevents some portions from overcooking while others remain undercooked.
Marinate adequately using our proven combination of garlic, chili, coriander, and lemon juice. The acidic components tenderize the prawns while the aromatics infuse deep flavors throughout the meat. We recommend marinating for 1 to 3 hours for optimal results, though overnight marination delivers the most intense flavor penetration.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding the prawns. This crucial step ensures immediate searing that locks in natural juices while creating those coveted grill marks. A properly heated grill prevents sticking and promotes even cooking throughout.
Monitor cooking time closely since tiger prawns require minimal heat exposure. Grill prawns until just opaque, approximately 4 to 5 minutes total cooking time. Overcooking transforms tender prawns into tough, rubbery disappointments that lack the desired texture.
Baste during grilling with flavored butter or reserved marinade to maintain moisture levels. Frequent basting prevents the prawns from drying out while adding layers of complementary flavors. We apply basting liquid both before and after flipping for maximum impact.
Serve immediately after grilling to preserve the optimal texture and temperature. Grilled tiger prawns reach their peak quality when served hot, allowing diners to experience the full smokiness and natural sweetness. Pair with fresh lemon wedges or herb butter sauce for enhanced flavor profiles.
Storage and Reheating
Proper storage techniques ensure our grilled tiger prawns maintain their exceptional flavor and texture for future enjoyment. We recommend transferring the cooled prawns to an airtight container immediately after they reach room temperature to preserve their quality. Refrigeration keeps them fresh for 1 to 2 days while maintaining optimal taste and safety standards.
Refrigerator Storage Guidelines
| Storage Method | Duration | Temperature | Container Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airtight container | 1-2 days | 35-40°F | Glass or plastic |
| Wrapped in foil | 1 day | 35-40°F | Heavy-duty aluminum |
Our storage approach focuses on preventing moisture loss and protecting the prawns from absorbing refrigerator odors. We place the prawns in a single layer when possible to avoid crushing their delicate texture. Separating any remaining sauce into a different container helps maintain the prawns’ integrity during storage.
Gentle Reheating Methods
Reheating requires careful attention to prevent overcooking and preserve the prawns’ tender texture. We heat them gently in a pan over low heat with a small amount of butter or olive oil until warmed through. This stovetop method allows us to control the temperature precisely while adding moisture back to the prawns.
Alternative reheating approaches include brief warming under the grill or using a microwave on low power settings. We monitor the prawns closely during microwave reheating to prevent them from becoming rubbery or dried out. The key lies in heating them just enough to warm through without continuing the cooking process.
Maintaining Quality During Reheating
Temperature control becomes crucial when reheating our grilled tiger prawns to preserve their original smoky flavor and juicy texture. We add a splash of lemon juice or a pat of garlic butter during reheating to refresh their taste and restore moisture. Quick reheating prevents the prawns from losing their vibrant coral color and tender bite.
These storage and reheating techniques ensure our perfectly grilled tiger prawns deliver the same impressive flavors and textures even when enjoyed as leftovers the following day.
Conclusion
We’ve shown you how to create restaurant-quality grilled tiger prawns that’ll become your go-to recipe for special occasions and weeknight dinners alike. The combination of proper preparation techniques butterflying and marinating plus precise grilling methods delivers consistently exceptional results.
These prawns offer incredible versatility whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner party or enjoying a casual backyard barbecue. The smoky char and tender texture paired with fresh herbs and citrus creates a dish that’s both sophisticated and approachable.
With the storage tips we’ve shared you can even prepare these prawns ahead of time making them perfect for meal prep or entertaining. Once you master this technique you’ll have a reliable recipe that impresses every time and keeps guests asking for your secret.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key ingredients needed for grilled tiger prawns?
The essential ingredients include large tiger prawns, olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. For the marinade, you’ll need fresh lemon juice, garlic, parsley, thyme, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and sea salt. Serving suggestions include lemon wedges, additional parsley, melted butter with garlic powder, and crusty bread or rice.
How long should I marinate tiger prawns before grilling?
Marinate tiger prawns for 1 to 3 hours for optimal flavor. For light infusion, 1 hour is sufficient. For medium penetration, marinate for 3 hours. For deep flavor saturation, overnight marination is recommended. Always cover the prawns during marination and let them come to room temperature before grilling.
What equipment do I need to grill tiger prawns perfectly?
Essential equipment includes a grill or grill pan, metal or soaked bamboo skewers, long-handled tongs, a medium mixing bowl for marinating, and a silicone basting brush. Make sure to preheat your grill for 10 to 15 minutes to achieve the ideal searing temperature for perfect grill marks.
How long should I grill tiger prawns and at what temperature?
Grill tiger prawns on medium-high heat for 5 to 7 minutes, turning them once. The prawns are done when they turn from translucent to opaque with a bright coral color. Avoid overcooking as this leads to tough, rubbery texture. Look for distinct grill marks and a charred exterior.
How should I prepare tiger prawns before grilling?
Clean prawns by rinsing under cold water and optionally remove heads. Butterfly the prawns by cutting along the back to ensure even cooking. Remove the digestive tract for better taste. Make the marinade by finely chopping aromatics and mixing with olive oil and lemon juice for balanced flavor.
What are the best serving suggestions for grilled tiger prawns?
Serve immediately after grilling to preserve tender texture and smoky aroma. Pair with lemon garlic butter sauce, steamed jasmine rice, or crusty artisan bread. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and herbs. The prawns work perfectly as an impressive appetizer or light main course for both casual and formal occasions.
How do I store and reheat leftover grilled tiger prawns?
Store cooled prawns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days. For reheating, use gentle methods like warming in a pan with butter, briefly under the grill, or microwave on low power. Add lemon juice or garlic butter during reheating to refresh flavor and restore moisture.
What are the most important tips for perfect grilled tiger prawns?
Properly butterfly prawns for even cooking, marinate adequately for deep flavor, and preheat grill to medium-high heat. Monitor cooking time closely to avoid overcooking, baste during grilling to maintain moisture, and serve immediately after grilling. Pair with fresh lemon wedges or herb butter sauce for enhanced flavor.
