Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast! These Smoked Salt Pepper Prawns with Coriander Lime Sauce are not just a recipe, they're a sensory experience that combines smoky, zesty, and fresh flavors in one irresistible dish. Perfect for seafood lovers and adventurous home chefs, this Asian-inspired recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and impress even the most discerning palates.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500g prawns, peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp smoked salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh coriander, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the prawns. Ensure they are peeled and deveined. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture, allowing for better seasoning and cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the smoked salt and black pepper. Add the prawns to the bowl and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss the prawns gently until they are well coated with the seasoning and oil. Allow them to marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- While the prawns are marinating, prepare the coriander lime sauce. In a small bowl, combine the chopped fresh coriander and the juice of 2 limes. Mix well and set aside. This sauce will provide a fresh and zesty contrast to the smoky prawns.
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated prawns in a single layer. Cook the prawns for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook them in batches.
- Flip the prawns and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side until fully cooked through. The prawns should be firm to the touch and have a nice golden color. Remove the prawns from the skillet and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Drizzle the coriander lime sauce over the cooked prawns, ensuring they are well coated. You can also serve the remaining sauce on the side for dipping.
- Garnish the dish with additional chopped coriander, if desired. Serve immediately while hot, accompanied by lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness.
Tips
- Always use fresh, high-quality prawns for the best flavor and texture.
- Pat the prawns completely dry before seasoning to ensure they sear beautifully and don't steam.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking - this helps achieve a perfect golden color and prevents steaming.
- Cooking time is crucial: 2-3 minutes per side is typically perfect to keep prawns tender and juicy.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan for even heat distribution and better searing.
- Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the prawns at their peak flavor and temperature.
- For an extra flavor boost, try smoking the prawns briefly with wood chips before pan-searing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 180mg
