What are the key differences between shrimp and king prawns?

Shrimp and king prawns differ mainly in size, habitat, and anatomy. King prawns tend to be larger with a distinct branching gill structure, while shrimp have lamellar gills. Shrimp are often found in saltwater or freshwater, whereas king prawns prefer warmer waters. Culinary-wise, both can be used similarly, but king prawns offer a meatier texture perfect for grilling.

How should I marinate prawns for grilling?

Marinate prawns briefly, ideally no longer than 15-30 minutes. Use acidic ingredients like lemon juice combined with oil and spices to infuse flavor without drawing out moisture. Avoid long marinating times which can cause shrimp to become mushy.

How long should I grill king prawns to avoid overcooking?

Grill prawns over high heat for about 2 minutes per side. Look for shells turning a pinky orange and meat becoming pearl white as signs of doneness. Overcooked prawns become tough and rubbery, so watch closely.

What are the best accompaniments for char grilled king prawns with lemon?

Fresh crusty bread like ciabatta or Portuguese Bolo de caco is perfect to soak up the rich lemon garlic butter sauce. Light salads or grilled vegetables complement the dish well, balancing the rich flavors of the prawns.

Char Grilled King Prawns with Lemon: A Flavorful Feast

Name: Zesty Grilled Shrimp with Lemon, Garlic, and Chili for a Flavorful Feast
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 90g unsalted butter; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3 teaspoons very finely chopped garlic (avoid using a mincer); 1.5 tablespoons lemon juice, plus more to taste; 500g (1 lb) large raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp or prawns; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (plain or sweet); 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (omit if cooking on stove); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley; Optional: 1 lemon, halved and grilled, lemon wedges, or lime wedges for extra citrus flavor; Fresh crusty bread such as a country loaf, ciabatta, or Portuguese Bolo de caco

Description

🍋 Experience the bold flavors of lemon, garlic, and chili with every bite of this zesty shrimp dish.
🔥 Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal that brings a taste of summer to your table any time of the year.

Ingredients

Scale

90g unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 teaspoons very finely chopped garlic (avoid using a mincer)
1.5 tablespoons lemon juice, plus more to taste
500g (1 lb) large raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp or prawns
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (plain or sweet)
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice (omit if cooking on stove)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
Optional: 1 lemon, halved and grilled, lemon wedges, or lime wedges for extra citrus flavor
Fresh crusty bread such as a country loaf, ciabatta, or Portuguese Bolo de caco

Instructions

1. Preheat and oil the BBQ grill until it reaches a high temperature (around 280°C). If shrimp are small, skewer them using two skewers per row to prevent spinning.
2. Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Add garlic and salt, stirring until garlic is light golden brown. Remove from heat to prevent burning and stir in the lemon juice.
3. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Just before cooking, toss shrimp with garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, lemon juice (if grilling), olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill the shrimp over high heat for about 2 minutes per side until the shells turn pinky orange and the meat is pearl white. If cooking on the stove, use a hot skillet, and omit the lemon juice.
5. Drizzle the lemon garlic butter sauce over the cooked shrimp and sprinkle with parsley. Serve immediately with lemon or lime wedges and fresh crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.

Notes

🧄 Fresh garlic enhances flavor more than minced garlic.
🔥 Ensure shrimp are not marinated for long to maintain crispiness and tenderness.
🥢 Choose fresh shrimp with a sea water scent and firm shells for the best taste.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
Calories: 339
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 575mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 355mg