Grilled Prawns With Lemon Myrtle Butter
Introduction
Grilled Prawns with Lemon Myrtle Butter offers a delightful culinary experience that combines the succulent sweetness of prawns with the unique citrus and herbal notes of lemon myrtle. Originating in Australia, lemon myrtle’s distinct flavor profile has made its way into kitchens worldwide, adding a sophisticated touch to seafood dishes. Grilling the prawns enhances their natural sweetness, while the lemon myrtle butter infuses a fragrant and flavorful coating, making it a popular choice for both casual gatherings and elegant dinners.
Ingredients
1 pound large prawns, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, as preferred) 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 2 tablespoons fresh lemon myrtle leaves, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried lemon myrtle) 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
Substitutions: If lemon myrtle is unavailable, substitute with a combination of lemon zest and a pinch of dried eucalyptus or rosemary for a similar, though not identical, flavor profile.
Preparation Steps
1. Prepare the Prawns: Rinse the prawns under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures better browning during grilling. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. 2. Make the Lemon Myrtle Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped lemon myrtle, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. The butter can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use. Bring to room temperature before using. 3. Season the Prawns: Lightly drizzle the prawns with olive oil or cooking oil and season with salt and pepper. This helps the butter adhere better and prevents sticking on the grill. Skewer the prawns if desired, leaving a small space between each prawn for even cooking.
Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375-450F or 190-230C). Ensure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. 2. Grill the Prawns: Place the skewered or individual prawns directly on the hot grill grates. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the prawns turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, as prawns can become tough and rubbery. 3. Brush with Lemon Myrtle Butter: During the last minute of grilling on each side, brush the prawns generously with the lemon myrtle butter. The butter will melt and infuse the prawns with flavor. 4. Remove and Rest: Once cooked, remove the prawns from the grill and let them rest for a minute or two before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender prawns.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled Prawns with Lemon Myrtle Butter are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways: Appetizer: Serve on a platter with lemon wedges and a dipping sauce, such as aioli or a light vinaigrette. Main Course: Pair with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or a side of rice or quinoa. Tacos or Wraps: Use the grilled prawns as a filling for tacos or wraps, adding avocado, salsa, and a squeeze of lime. Pasta: Toss the grilled prawns with cooked pasta, olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for added flavor and visual appeal.
Tips and Common Mistakes
Don’t Overcook: Overcooked prawns are tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon myrtle and high-quality prawns will significantly enhance the flavor of the dish. Soften the Butter: Using softened butter ensures that it mixes evenly with the other ingredients and coats the prawns properly. Clean the Grill: A clean grill grate prevents sticking and ensures even cooking. Avoid Flare-Ups: Be mindful of flare-ups caused by the melting butter. Move the prawns to a cooler part of the grill if necessary. Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season the prawns and the butter generously with salt and pepper.
Explore More Cooking Guides
Learning to prepare Grilled Prawns with Lemon Myrtle Butter opens a world of flavor, showcasing the versatility of seafood and the unique appeal of Australian native ingredients. Its vibrant taste and ease of preparation make it a standout dish for any occasion. Adapt the recipe to your liking by adding spices, herbs, or different citrus fruits. Embrace the culinary adventure and discover more delicious recipes at foodrecipestory.com. Happy grilling!
