Prawn
Prawns are a fantastic ingredient for BBQ enthusiasts who appreciate clean, whole-food cooking over fire. They have a naturally sweet and delicate flavour that becomes beautifully smoky when cooked over charcoal or wood. The texture is firm yet tender, which means they hold up well on skewers or grills without falling apart. When grilling, prawns cook very quickly, usually within 2 to 3 minutes per side, so attention is key to avoid overcooking and drying them out. When selecting prawns, look for ones that are large, fresh, and preferably wild-caught for the best flavour and texture. Fresh prawns should smell briny but not fishy, with firm, translucent flesh and intact shells. If buying frozen, ensure they are properly thawed before cooking to maintain their texture. Prawns can be cooked shell-on or peeled, but leaving the shell on helps retain moisture and adds an extra layer of flavour from the caramelisation of the shell. Storage is straightforward: keep prawns chilled and use them within a day or two of purchase for optimal freshness. If you need to store them longer, freezing is the best option. When grilling, marinate lightly or simply season with sea salt and pepper to let their natural flavour shine. Prawns pair well with citrus, garlic, and fresh herbs, making them versatile for a variety of BBQ styles.
Health Notes
Prawns are a lean source of protein and low in fat, making them a healthy choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. They are rich in essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium, which support metabolism, thyroid function, and antioxidant defences respectively. Additionally, prawns contain omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health. While prawns are nutritious, it is important to be mindful of how they are cooked and served. Avoid heavy sauces or excessive butter to keep the dish clean and wholesome. Overall, prawns offer a nutrient-dense option that fits well within a whole-food, fire-cooked BBQ approach.
Cook With It
Recipes Using Prawn
Grilled Lobster Tail
Split lobster tails grilled shell-side down over medium heat, basted with garlic herb butter. Special occasion, high impact, surprisingly simple.
Garlic Butter Prawn Skewers
Tiger prawns threaded onto skewers, grilled hard and fast over direct charcoal heat, and basted with a garlic, chilli and lemon butter as they come off the fire. Ready in under 10 minutes — one of the fastest things you can cook on a BBQ.
