Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand, boasts a rich culinary heritage, and among its treasures are the succulent grilled river prawns. These aren't your average shrimp; the freshwater prawns of the region possess a unique sweetness and firmness that elevates them to a truly special dish. Imagine the irresistible aroma of perfectly grilled prawns, their delicate flesh infused with the smoky char of the grill and the vibrant flavors of traditional Thai herbs and spices. This isn't just a meal; it's a taste of Ayutthaya's vibrant past and culinary artistry.
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this authentic recipe, capturing the essence of this beloved Thai street food classic. From selecting the freshest prawns to mastering the perfect grilling technique, we'll guide you through each step, ensuring your grilled river prawns are as unforgettable as the historic city they hail from. Ready to embark on this culinary journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide below.
Tools Needed
- Grill
Ingredients
- name: River Prawns (size 10-12)
- amount: 300 grams per prawn (approximately)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Selecting and Preparing the Prawns
- Select large, fresh river prawns (size 10-12, approximately 300 grams each).
- Clean and prepare the prawns for grilling.
Step 2. Grilling the Prawns
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the prawns on the grill and cook for several minutes per side, until they are cooked through and slightly charred.
Step 3. Serving
- Serve immediately with seafood sauce (see tips for details).
Read more: Thai Grilled Eggplant Salad (Yum Makua Yow): A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Consider serving the grilled prawns with other delicious accompaniments such as fried shrimp with salt, stir-fried lotus stems with shrimp claws, or fried shrimp cakes.
- For a truly authentic experience, try using a special seafood sauce.
- The prawns are best enjoyed when they are hot and fresh off the grill.
- The size 10-12 prawns are ideal for grilling as they offer a good balance of size and cooking time.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. What kind of prawns are best for grilling?
Freshwater river prawns are ideal for this recipe. Look for firm, plump prawns with a shiny, translucent appearance.
2. Can I marinate the prawns for longer than the recipe suggests?
While a longer marinade can enhance the flavor, avoid marinating for more than 2-3 hours to prevent the prawns from becoming mushy.
3. What can I serve with grilled river prawns?
Grilled river prawns pair beautifully with sticky rice, a fresh green papaya salad (som tum), and a dipping sauce like nam pla prik (fish sauce dip).
With this recipe, you've unlocked the secret to creating authentically delicious grilled river prawns, a true taste of Ayutthaya. Enjoy the satisfying smoky char and the delicate sweetness of these perfectly cooked prawns. Now, gather your ingredients and embark on your culinary adventure!