Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsJoey'sGrilled Prawn Recipe

Grilled Prawn Recipe

Inspired by Joey's
Time35m
Serves3

Make Grilled Prawn Recipe in just 35m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Prawns & Marinade

Method

Prawns & Marinade

  1. 1

    Prepare prawns

    Rinse the prawns under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. If shells are on, remove shells leaving tails if preferred; devein if not already done. Drying is important so the marinade adheres and they sear rather than steam.

  2. 2

    Make marinade

    In a medium bowl combine 3 tbs olive oil, 2 tbs fresh lemon juice, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp red pepper flakes, 1 tsp honey, 2 tbs chopped parsley, 1.25 tsp salt, and 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until combined.

  3. 3

    Marinate prawns

    Add the dried prawns to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes. Do not marinate more than 60 minutes — the acid will begin to ‘cook’ the prawns and make them tough.

Grilling & Finish

  1. 4

    Preheat grill

    Preheat a gas or charcoal grill to medium-high (about 425–450°F / 220–230°C). If using a grill pan, heat over medium-high heat and brush the grates/pan with 1 tsp olive oil to prevent sticking.

  2. 5

    Skewer (optional)

    If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes before assembling. Thread prawns onto skewers through the thick part so they lie flat and are easy to turn (3 prawns per skewer for even cooking).

  3. 6

    Grill prawns

    Place prawns directly on the hot grill or in the grill pan in a single layer. Grill 2–3 minutes on the first side without moving, until edges turn pink and grill marks form. Flip and grill another 1–2 minutes until opaque and just cooked through. Total cook time is about 4–5 minutes depending on prawn size. Avoid overcooking.

  4. 7

    Baste with butter

    In the last 30 seconds of cooking, brush the prawns with 2 tbs melted butter to add richness and shine. Remove prawns from the grill as soon as they are opaque and firm but still slightly springy.

  5. 8

    Serve

    Transfer prawns to a warm platter, sprinkle with extra chopped parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges. Squeeze lemon over prawns to taste.

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