What is the main difference between prawns and shrimp?

Prawns are generally larger than shrimp and have different gill structures, but in culinary terms, they are often used interchangeably. Shrimp tend to have a more pronounced bend, while prawns have straighter bodies. Cooking methods can be similar for both.

Do prawns need to be marinated before grilling?

Marinating prawns enhances their flavor and keeps them moist, but it's not mandatory. A simple rub of herbs, spices, and lemon juice just before grilling works well and prevents over-tenderizing the flesh.

How long should I grill chargrilled king prawns?

Grill prawns for approximately 2 to 3 minutes per side over high heat. Look for when the flesh turns opaque and pink with slight char marks. Avoid overcooking to keep prawns tender.

Can I prepare chargrilled prawns without using a BBQ?

Yes, a stovetop grill pan or broiler oven works well as alternatives. Preheat the grill pan to medium-high heat, cook prawns for about 2 minutes per side, watching carefully for doneness and aiming for light char to simulate BBQ flavor.

Char Grilled King Prawns with Zesty Lemon & Spice

Ingredients

Scale

90g (6 tbsp) unsalted butter
1/4 tsp salt
3 tsp garlic, very finely chopped
1.5 tbsp lemon juice, plus more to taste
500g (1 lb) large raw shrimp/prawns, peeled and deveined
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika (plain or sweet is fine)
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tbsp lemon juice (omit if cooking on stove)
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1 lemon, halved and grilled if desired
Lemon wedges or slices
2 tbsp finely chopped parsley
Fresh crusty bread for dipping

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Brush BBQ grill with oil and preheat on high until very hot.
2. If using small shrimp, skewer them to prevent spinning or falling through the grill. Soak bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes if using.
3. For the lemon garlic butter sauce, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Add finely chopped garlic and salt, stirring until garlic turns light golden. Stir in lemon juice and set aside.
4. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
5. Just before cooking, toss shrimp with garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, lemon juice (omit if cooking on stove), olive oil, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook shrimp on the BBQ, about 2 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Alternatively, cook in a heavy-based skillet on high heat for 2 minutes per side.
7. Remove shrimp immediately after cooking, place on a serving plate, and drizzle lemon garlic butter over them. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
8. Serve with optional grilled lemon halves, lemon wedges, and crusty bread to soak up the butter sauce.

Notes

🍤 Tip: Use large or jumbo shrimp/prawns to avoid falling through grill grates.
⏰ Tip: Shrimp should be cooked quickly to avoid becoming tough and overcooked.
🔥 Tip: Use high heat on the grill for caramelized flavor.

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

Nutrition

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