Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
187 | 7g | 1g | 9g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
4g | 1g | 26g | 1.02g |
There are many reasons why Spicy Lesser Galangal Grilled Prawns hold a special place in my heart and my kitchen. Born and raised in the sunny valleys of California, my culinary journey has always been deeply rooted in a love for fresh and healthy ingredients, often infused with a touch of comfort and familiarity. This recipe perfectly encapsulates that essence, bringing together the vibrant flavors of the West Coast with a tantalizing twist of Southeast Asian influences.
Why Galangal?
One might wonder, what makes lesser galangal such a standout in this recipe? Not only does this spice bring a unique warmth and earthiness to the prawns, but it also boasts numerous health benefits. Lesser galangal is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can aid in digestion and boost the immune system. This makes Spicy Lesser Galangal Grilled Prawns not only a delectable treat but also a nutritious option for a family meal.
Health-Conscious Meets Flavorful
In our household, we strive to maintain a balance between taste and health. This recipe aligns perfectly with that philosophy. The olive oil provides a heart-healthy fat source, while the garlic and ginger offer immune-boosting benefits. Red chili peppers, loaded with vitamin C, add a spicy kick, enhancing both the flavor and nutritional profile of the dish. The fish sauce and honey create a harmonious umami sweetness that complements the prawns beautifully.
If you’re familiar with other prawn dishes like Shrimp Scampi or Grilled Shrimp Tacos, you’ll find this recipe to be a delightful variation that pushes your culinary boundaries. It’s also a stellar appetizer when paired with a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables, making it versatile enough for both casual family dinners and elegant entertaining.
Moreover, the preparation is quite straightforward, making it an excellent choice for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence but you still want to serve something extraordinary. All you need to do is marinate the prawns with the finely balanced mixture of galangal, garlic, ginger, and other fresh ingredients, then grill them to perfection.
Whether it’s the sunny Californian influence or the zing of Southeast Asian zest, Spicy Lesser Galangal Grilled Prawns have a way of bringing joy and warmth to our dining table. It’s a recipe that resonates with my passion for creating dishes that are both nourishing and deeply satisfying. So go ahead, give it a try—you might just find it becoming one of your go-to favorites too!
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs large prawns, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lesser galangal powder
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 red chili peppers, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges for garnish
- Skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
Method
Step One: Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp lesser galangal powder, 3 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger, 2 finely chopped red chili peppers, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tbsp honey, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mix well to create a uniform marinade.
Step Two: Marinate the Prawns
Add the 2 lbs of peeled and deveined large prawns into the bowl with the marinade. Toss the prawns until they are thoroughly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Step Three: Preheat the Grill
While the prawns are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Step Four: Skewer the Prawns
Once the prawns have marinated, thread them onto the skewers. Ensure the prawns are skewered securely and are not crowded on the skewer to allow even grilling.
Step Five: Grill the Prawns
Place the prawn skewers on the preheated grill. Grill the prawns for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque and cooked through. Avoid overcooking to keep the prawns tender and juicy.
Step Six: Garnish and Serve
Remove the prawns from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with the 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges. Enjoy your Spicy Lesser Galangal Grilled Prawns hot off the grill!