Mastering garlic butter tiger shrimp
Garlic butter tiger shrimp is a deliciously simple recipe that highlights the natural sweetness and tender texture of tiger prawns. This recipe is perfect for those who want a flavorful yet easy-to-prepare seafood dish. The key to mastering garlic butter tiger shrimp lies in balancing the rich, creamy butter with the robust aroma of garlic and fresh lime juice to uplift the prawns’ flavor.
The shrimp are cooked in their shells to retain juiciness and added flavor, though they can be peeled for convenience. Slow frying the smashed garlic in butter and a little vegetable oil ensures a fragrant base without burning the garlic. Adding fresh lime rind and juice brightens the dish with subtle acidity, complementing the richness of the butter and the aromatic coriander garnish.
This method requires minimal prep and cooks quickly, making it a versatile choice for weeknight dinners or when hosting guests. Serving with warm tortillas and finger bowls filled with water and lemon slices encourages communal dining and adds a touch of fun to the experience.
Benefits and Advantages of garlic butter tiger shrimp
Quick and Easy to Prepare
This garlic butter tiger shrimp recipe is notably fast to prepare, with an estimated total time of just 22 minutes. The simple ingredients come together quickly, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Minimal cleanup and straightforward steps allow you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the meal.
Nutrition and Health
Tiger shrimp are a protein-rich, low-calorie seafood option high in essential nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids that support cardiovascular health. Cooking shrimp in garlic butter adds flavor without excessive calories when used judiciously. For more on the health benefits of shrimp, shrimp offers lean protein while containing beneficial antioxidants and minerals.
Flavorful with Simple Ingredients
The recipe relies on staple kitchen ingredients: butter, garlic, lime, and coriander. These deliver bold flavors that enrich the shrimp without complicated sauces or marinades. Optional additions like Cajun spice or dry white wine offer room for customization to different palates or occasions.
Versatility in Serving
The dish pairs well with warm tortillas for tacos or as a component of rice dishes, salads, or pasta. It adapts well as a main course or an appetizer. Side dishes such as steamed rice, crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce, or fresh vegetables complement the richness beautifully.
Essential Ingredients for garlic butter tiger shrimp
- 2 pounds large raw tiger prawns in their shells, thawed if frozen
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 6 smashed garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons lime rind and juice (or substitute with lemon juice)
- 1 bunch chopped coriander
- Warm tortillas for serving
- Water and lemon slices for finger bowls
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon dry white wine (e.g., Chardonnay)
- 2 teaspoons Cajun spice for added flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste
Each ingredient plays an integral role: the butter and oil create a silky sauce and prevent burning; garlic infuses aromatics; lime adds acidity and brightness; coriander delivers freshness; and optional spices boost complexity. Warm tortillas and finger bowls enhance the serving experience, suitable for gatherings or casual meals.
For alternative seafood dinner ideas with rich flavors, try our Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your garlic butter tiger shrimp
Garlic butter tiger shrimp is a versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit various dietary needs or ingredient availability.
Seafood Alternatives
- Shrimp substitutes: If tiger prawns are unavailable, large shrimp can be used interchangeably with similar cooking time and flavor profile.
- Other shellfish: Lobster or crab meat can replace shrimp for a richer seafood experience.
- Non-shellfish options: For those allergic to shellfish, chicken tenders or firm tofu offer protein alternatives that work well with garlic butter sauce.
Dairy and Butter Replacements
- Butter alternatives: Use vegan butter or olive oil for dairy-free or vegan variations. Extra virgin olive oil enriches the garlic flavor while keeping the dish light.
- Dairy-free creaminess: Coconut oil or a blend of olive oil and dairy-free margarine can mimic the richness of butter.
Spice and Herb Modifications
- Cajun spice options: Omit or reduce for milder palates, or swap with smoked paprika and black pepper for smokiness without heat.
- Herb choices: Replace coriander with parsley or basil depending on availability and taste preference.
Serving Adjustments
- Alternative breads: Serve with gluten-free tortillas or naan to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- Accompaniments: Pair instead with steamed vegetables or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
These substitutions allow you to tailor garlic butter tiger shrimp to suit almost any diet without sacrificing flavor or texture.
How to Prepare the Perfect garlic butter tiger shrimp: Step-by-Step Guide
Master the art of making tender, flavorful garlic butter tiger shrimp with this comprehensive guide.
First Step: Prep the Prawns
Rinse 2 pounds of large raw tiger prawns under cold water. Remove their heads and let them drain. If desired, make a shallow slit along the back of each prawn to devein, then rinse and pat dry.
Second Step: Make the Garlic Butter Base
Heat 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large frying pan over low heat. Add 6 smashed garlic cloves and gently fry them for 2-3 minutes until fragrant without browning.
Third Step: Add Citrus and Seasonings
Stir in 2 tablespoons lime rind and juice (or substitute lemon juice) and cook for an additional minute, stirring continuously to combine flavors.
Fourth Step: Cook the Prawns
Add the prepared prawns to the pan. Cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. To intensify flavor, optionally add 1 tablespoon dry white wine and/or 2 teaspoons Cajun spice, stirring carefully as the prawns finish cooking.
Fifth Step: Finish and Serve
Remove the pan from heat. Sprinkle 1 bunch of chopped coriander over the prawns. Serve immediately with warm tortillas and water bowls with lemon slices for cleaning fingers after peeling.
“Cooking prawns with shells on enriches the flavor but shelling before serving is an option for convenience.”
Mastering garlic butter tiger shrimp: Advanced Tips and Variations
Make your garlic butter tiger shrimp shine by trying these seasoned cooking tips and flavor variations.
Pro Tips
- Garlic prep: Mincing garlic gives a more intense flavor, while chopped garlic adds texture and subtle bursts of garlic aroma.
- Butter and oil combo: Heating olive oil or vegetable oil with butter prevents butter from burning and keeps the sauce silky.
- Don’t overcook: Prawns cook quickly; look for coral-orange color and ensure meat doesn’t stick to shells.
- Sauce enhancements: Add a splash of white wine or a sprinkle of fresh chili flakes for a depth of flavor and heat balance.
Flavor Variations
- Add fresh lemon zest for extra citrusy brightness.
- Substitute coriander with fresh parsley or chives for different herbal notes.
- Mix in a touch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder instead of Cajun spice for smoky undertones.
- Serve over steamed rice or alongside garlic bread to soak up the luscious garlic butter sauce.
How to Store garlic butter tiger shrimp: Best Practices
To keep your garlic butter tiger shrimp fresh and flavorful, follow these storage tips.
Refrigeration
- Allow cooked prawns to cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
- Keep warm tortillas separate and wrapped to maintain moisture.
Freezing
- While possible, freezing cooked prawns may affect texture; if freezing, place in a freezer-safe container and use within 1 month.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
Reheating
- Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or butter to prevent drying.
- Avoid microwaving for long periods to prevent toughening.
Nutritional Value of garlic butter tiger shrimp
Garlic butter tiger shrimp provides a flavorful source of nutrients that support a balanced diet.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 300 kcal | 15% |
| Protein | 35 grams | 70% |
| Total Fat | 18 grams | 28% |
| Saturated Fat | 10 grams | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 210 mg | 70% |
| Sodium | 350 mg | 15% |
Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein and contains essential nutrients. The butter adds richness but also saturated fat, so portion control is key for balanced nutrition. Learn more about the health benefits of shrimp.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About garlic butter tiger shrimp
What sides pair well with garlic butter tiger shrimp?
Popular sides include steamed rice, crusty bread to mop up the sauce, polenta, and fresh green salads. These options complement the rich garlic butter flavor while balancing the meal nutrition-wise.
How do shrimp and prawns differ, and can they be used interchangeably?
Shrimp and prawns differ primarily in species and habitat, but they are similar in taste and texture and can be used interchangeably in most recipes. Regional terms vary, but cooking methods remain consistent.
Can garlic butter shrimp be cooked on the stove instead of a grill?
Yes, shrimp can be pan-cooked in a skillet with garlic butter for similar flavor. While it won’t have the smoky notes that grilling imparts, adding smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke can mimic that aroma.
What is the best method to devein shrimp before cooking?
To devein, make a shallow slit along the back of the shrimp with a sharp knife, then use the tip to lift out the dark vein. Rinse under cold water and pat dry. Deveining improves texture and eliminates grit.
Sizzling Garlic Butter Tiger Prawns: A Simple Grilled Recipe Guide
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
🦐 Delight in these Sizzling Garlic Butter Tiger Prawns, a perfect blend of succulent seafood and aromatic garlic butter that’s simple to prepare.
🔥 Impress your guests with tender prawns infused with lime and optional spices, ideal for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
2 pounds large raw tiger prawns in their shells, thawed if frozen
1/2 cup butter
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
6 smashed garlic cloves
2 tablespoons lime rind and juice (or substitute with lemon juice)
1 bunch chopped coriander
Warm tortillas for serving
Water and lemon slices for finger bowls
Optional: 1 tablespoon dry white wine (e.g., Chardonnay)
Optional: 2 teaspoons Cajun spice for added flavor
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Rinse prawns in a colander, remove their heads, and let them drain. If necessary, make a shallow slit along the back to devein, then rinse and pat dry.
2. Heat butter and vegetable oil in a large frying pan over low heat. Add smashed garlic cloves and fry for 2-3 minutes until aromatic.
3. Stir in lime rind and juice, cooking for another minute while stirring continuously.
4. Add prawns to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Optionally add dry white wine and Cajun spice, stirring until prawns are fully cooked.
5. Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped coriander, and serve with warm tortillas.
6. Provide finger bowls with water and lemon slices for cleaning fingers after peeling prawns.
Notes
🍋 Consider pressing or mincing garlic for varying flavor intensity; chopped garlic can add texture.
🦐 Cooking prawns with shells on enhances flavor but shelling them is an option for convenience.
🧈 Heating olive oil with butter prevents burning, enriching the sauce and maintaining prawn tenderness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0 grams
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 22 grams
- Saturated Fat: 12 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 4 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Protein: 28 grams
- Cholesterol: 220 mg