Chili Prawn Skewers

Thai Prawn Skewers with Lime - Spicy and Flavorful Recipe

Region / culture: Thailand | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 2 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chili prawn skewers are a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick and easy weeknight meal. The combination of juicy prawns, zesty lime, and spicy chili powder creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

Chili prawn skewers are a popular dish in many Asian countries, where seafood is a staple in the diet. The combination of prawns and chili has been enjoyed for centuries, with each culture adding its own unique twist to the recipe. In recent years, chili prawn skewers have become a favorite on restaurant menus and at home gatherings, thanks to their bold flavors and easy preparation.

Ingredients

16 giant raw shrimp or prawns, shelled with the tail section left intact
1 fresh lime, cut into 8 wedges
4 tbsp sweet chili sauce/sriracha (can be found in the aisle that holds the Asian seasonings and foods)
4 tbsp chili powder, optional

How to prepare

Place eight bamboo skewers in cold water and let them soak for at least 10 minutes. Then, preheat the broiler to high. Alternatively, you can heat up a grill.
Thread a prawn onto each skewer, followed by a lime wedge, and then another prawn. If desired, mix the chili powder with the sweet chili sauce and use it to brush the prawns and lime wedges.
Arrange the skewers on a baking sheet and broil for approximately 2 minutes, turning them once, until they are cooked through. Serve immediately with additional chili sauce for dipping. You can also serve them with white rice, if desired.

Variations

Substitute the prawns with chicken, beef, or tofu for a different twist on this dish.
Add diced bell peppers, onions, or pineapple to the skewers for extra flavor and color.
Use a different type of chili powder or hot sauce to adjust the level of spiciness.

Notes

If you are planning to serve these as a main course, then allot 4 giant prawns per person. However, since giant prawns are terribly expensive, it is a little more economical to buy frozen raw shrimp in a bag.
If using frozen shrimp, then try to use the biggest ones you can (16 - 20 count). Keep in mind that you will need more than 1 lime if you do this.
Smaller shrimp equals more food for a crowd. If you're having a small but fancy dinner party, then spend the extra money for the giant prawns; it will be worth it.
Serve the shrimp with an Asian-style salad or a vegetable based salad with good complementing flavors such as black beans, parsley, cilantro, etc.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to soak the bamboo skewers in water before threading the prawns to prevent them from burning under the broiler or on the grill.

- Don't overcook the prawns, as they can become tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.

- Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your taste preferences. You can also add other seasonings, such as garlic or ginger, for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Chili prawn skewers can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or as part of a buffet spread. They pair well with white rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Chili prawn skewers can be cooked under the broiler, on the grill, or in a grill pan on the stovetop. They cook quickly, so be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have prawns, you can use shrimp or another type of seafood. You can also use chicken, beef, or tofu as a protein alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the prawns in the chili sauce ahead of time and keep them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them. Soaking the skewers in water can also be done in advance.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the chili prawn skewers on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley. You can also drizzle extra chili sauce over the top for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Chili prawn skewers pair well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving them with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover chili prawn skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of chili prawn skewers contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of chili prawn skewers contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of chili prawn skewers contains approximately 2 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of chili prawn skewers contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chili prawn skewers are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B12, and iron.

Alergens

Chili prawn skewers contain shellfish and may not be suitable for individuals with shellfish allergies.

Summary

Chili prawn skewers are a low-carb, high-protein dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. They are a healthy and delicious option for seafood lovers.

Summary

Chili prawn skewers are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. With their bold flavors and healthy ingredients, they are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer evening many years ago when I stumbled upon the secret to making the most delicious Chili Prawn Skewers. I was visiting a small seaside town in Mexico, where the air was filled with the scents of spices and the sound of sizzling grills.

I had been wandering the streets, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling market when I came across a small food stall tucked away in a corner. The aroma of grilled seafood wafted through the air, drawing me closer. As I approached, I saw a man expertly skewering plump prawns onto long metal sticks, brushing them with a fiery red chili sauce before placing them on the grill.

Intrigued by the process, I struck up a conversation with the man, who introduced himself as Miguel. He explained that he had been perfecting his recipe for Chili Prawn Skewers for years, using a blend of traditional Mexican spices and his own secret ingredients. As we chatted, he generously shared his recipe with me, encouraging me to try it out for myself.

Excited by the prospect of recreating this mouthwatering dish at home, I hurried back to my rented cottage and set to work. I carefully marinated the prawns in a mixture of chili powder, cumin, garlic, and lime juice, letting them soak up the flavors for a few hours before threading them onto skewers.

As the prawns sizzled on the grill, the scent of charred seafood mingling with the spicy chili sauce filled the air. I couldn't resist taking a taste, and as I bit into the juicy prawn, I knew I had stumbled upon a culinary masterpiece. The combination of smoky grilled flavors and fiery spices was a revelation, and I couldn't wait to share this recipe with my family and friends.

Over the years, I have made these Chili Prawn Skewers countless times, each batch better than the last. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own touches and experimenting with different variations. Sometimes I swap out the chili powder for smoked paprika, or add a touch of honey for a sweeter glaze. No matter how I choose to prepare them, these skewers never fail to impress.

I have shared this recipe with countless friends and family members, who have all become fans of my Chili Prawn Skewers. They always ask me for the recipe, eager to recreate the magic in their own kitchens. I am always happy to oblige, passing on the knowledge that Miguel shared with me all those years ago.

As I stand in my kitchen now, preparing a fresh batch of Chili Prawn Skewers for dinner, I can't help but smile at the memories that this recipe holds. It is a reminder of that fateful evening in Mexico, where I stumbled upon a culinary treasure that has brought joy and satisfaction to so many.

I am grateful to Miguel for sharing his recipe with me, and I am proud to carry on the tradition of making these delicious skewers. The flavors of chili, garlic, and lime will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the magic that can happen when you stumble upon a recipe that truly inspires you.