Creamy Garlic Prawns Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Garlic Prawns, also known as shrimp, are a decadent and flavorful dish that has become a favorite for many seafood lovers. This delightful recipe combines plump prawns with a luscious garlic-infused sauce that is guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you are serving it as a main course or a starter, this dish is sure to impress. With a few simple tricks, we elevate a classic dish into something extraordinary by adding a splash of white wine, chicken stock, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. This article will guide you through the steps to create the perfect Creamy Garlic Prawns, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Garlic Marinated Prawns:

• 500g / 1lb peeled prawns/shrimp, large/jumbo best
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt

Cooking Prawns:

• 15g / 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 15g / 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (or more chicken stock)
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock/broth, low sodium
• 1 cup heavy/thickened cream
• 1/2 cup parmesan, finely grated
• 2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

Creating this dish is a straightforward process that requires minimal time and effort. Follow these steps to achieve the best results:

Marinate Prawns:

1. Place the prawns, garlic, olive oil, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss to coat the prawns evenly.
2. Set aside for 20 minutes to marinate. If time permits, allow the flavors to meld, but avoid marinating for too long.
3. Stir through the salt just before cooking.

Cook Prawns:

4. Melt 15g / 1 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add half the marinated prawns to the skillet and cook for 1 minute on each side, then remove.
6. Repeat the process with the remaining prawns. You shouldn’t need more butter for the second batch.
7. Scrape out any excess garlic from the pan and add it to the cooked prawns.

Creamy Sauce:

8. Add butter to the skillet and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds or until it becomes light golden in color.
9. Pour in the white wine, turn up the heat to high, and bring to a simmer. Stir the base of the pan to dissolve all the golden bits into the sauce. Cook for 1 minute until the wine mostly evaporates and the winey smell dissipates.
10. Add the chicken stock and reduce until mostly gone, leaving just a thin layer on the base of the skillet.
11. Stir in the cream and let it simmer on medium heat for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
12. Mix in the parmesan cheese, then add the prawns back into the sauce.
13. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
14. Serve garnished with parsley, over mashed potatoes or your choice of side dish to soak up the fabulous sauce!

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your meal is essential for maintaining a balanced diet. Here is the nutrition information per serving for the Creamy Garlic Prawns, assuming all the sauce is consumed:

• Calories: 490kcal (25% of daily intake)
• Carbohydrates: 4g (1% of daily intake)
• Protein: 32g (64% of daily intake)
• Fat: 37g (57% of daily intake)
• Saturated Fat: 21g (131% of daily intake)
• Cholesterol: 423mg (141% of daily intake)
• Sodium: 1499mg (65% of daily intake)
• Potassium: 203mg (6% of daily intake)
• Fiber: 1g (4% of daily intake)
• Sugar: 1g (1% of daily intake)
• Vitamin A: 1341IU (27% of daily intake)
• Vitamin C: 9mg (11% of daily intake)
• Calcium: 374mg (37% of daily intake)
• Iron: 3mg (17% of daily intake)

How to Serve

The Creamy Garlic Prawns dish is not only delectable but also highly versatile, making it easy to customize based on your preferences and dietary needs. Here are several comprehensive serving suggestions that elevate the dining experience and allow you to enjoy this dish to its fullest potential:

1. Over Mashed Potatoes

One of the most popular ways to serve Creamy Garlic Prawns is over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes. The velvety texture of the potatoes absorbs the rich and savory garlic sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. To enhance this pairing:

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Use starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds for a creamier consistency.
• Add Flavor: Consider incorporating garlic, cream, or even a hint of sour cream into your mashed potatoes for an extra flavor boost.
• Garnish: Top the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness.

2. With Pasta

Serving Creamy Garlic Prawns over pasta transforms it into a hearty meal that is both satisfying and indulgent. Here’s how to make the most of this option:

• Pasta Selection: Opt for long, thin pasta such as fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti, which allows the sauce to cling beautifully.
• Cooking Tips: Cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot sauce. Reserve some of the pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
• Cheese Addition: Consider adding freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese to the pasta for added richness and depth.

3. With Crusty Bread

Crusty bread is an excellent accompaniment to Creamy Garlic Prawns, as it provides a satisfying texture and the perfect means to enjoy the sauce fully. Here are some ways to enhance this serving method:

• Bread Types: Choose a robust bread like a sourdough, ciabatta, or baguette, which can hold up to the sauce without becoming soggy.
• Toasting: Lightly toast the bread to enhance its crunchiness and flavor. A drizzle of olive oil or a rub of garlic can elevate the taste even further.
• Serving Style: Present the prawns in a shallow bowl with the sauce generously poured over the bread, allowing diners to tear pieces of bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

4. Alongside Steamed Vegetables

For a more health-conscious option, serve Creamy Garlic Prawns alongside steamed vegetables. This not only adds nutritional value but also creates a colorful and visually appealing plate. Here’s how to make it work:

• Vegetable Selection: Opt for vibrant vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers, which provide a nice contrast to the creamy sauce.
• Cooking Technique: Steam the vegetables until they are tender yet still crisp, preserving their bright color and nutrients.
• Flavor Enhancements: Drizzle the steamed vegetables with a little olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten their flavor, making them a refreshing counterpart to the richness of the prawns.

5. In a Salad

For those looking for a lighter option, consider incorporating Creamy Garlic Prawns into a fresh salad. This can create a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

• Salad Base: Use a mix of leafy greens such as arugula, spinach, or romaine as the foundation.
• Additional Ingredients: Add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and even nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
• Dressing: A light vinaigrette can complement the creamy sauce without overpowering it. Consider a lemon or balsamic vinaigrette to enhance the overall dish.

6. On a Bed of Rice

Serving Creamy Garlic Prawns over a bed of rice is another satisfying option that absorbs the flavors beautifully.

• Rice Varieties: White rice, jasmine rice, or even brown rice can work well. For a more exotic touch, try coconut rice or saffron-infused rice.
• Flavorful Enhancements: Cook the rice in broth or add a bay leaf during cooking for added flavor.
• Garnishing: Finish the dish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a burst of freshness.

In summary, Creamy Garlic Prawns can be served in numerous delightful ways, each offering a unique dining experience. Whether you choose to pair it with mashed potatoes, pasta, crusty bread, steamed vegetables, a salad, or rice, the key is to complement the dish’s rich, garlicky flavor while adding your personal touch. Enjoy experimenting with these serving suggestions to find your perfect combination!

Additional Tips

To ensure the best results when making Creamy Garlic Prawns, consider these additional tips that cover everything from ingredient selection to proper cooking techniques and storage advice. These insights will help you achieve a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing and satisfying.

Prawn Size and Preparation

When selecting prawns, size does matter. Larger prawns, typically categorized as jumbo or colossal (21-25 count per pound), are easier to handle and tend to maintain their plumpness and juiciness during cooking. Larger prawns also provide a more satisfying bite, making your dish more enjoyable.

If you’re using frozen prawns, it’s essential to thaw them properly to ensure their texture and flavor are preserved. Place the prawns in a colander set over a bowl and allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator. This method allows excess water to drain away, preventing your dish from becoming watery. Once thawed, pat the prawns dry with paper towels; this step is crucial for achieving a nice sear when they hit the pan, which adds a depth of flavor through caramelization.

Parmesan Cheese

The quality of the cheese you use can make a significant difference in the final dish. For the best results, grate your own Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent them from melting smoothly, resulting in a grainy texture in your sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan will melt beautifully, contributing to a creamy, luxurious sauce.

When measuring the cheese, lightly pack the grated Parmesan into the measuring cup. This ensures you’re using the right amount without overloading your dish with cheese, which could make it overly rich and salty.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover Creamy Garlic Prawns, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the dish’s quality and preventing spoilage.

When it comes to reheating, do so gently. Overheating prawns can lead to a rubbery texture, which is far from desirable. Use a microwave-safe dish and reheat on low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Alternatively, you can reheat the prawns in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or a little extra wine to help restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. This method not only warms the dish but also allows for a quick refresh of flavors.

By following these tips, you’ll enhance the overall experience of your Creamy Garlic Prawns, ensuring that each bite is flavorful, satisfying, and perfectly prepared. Enjoy your culinary creation, and don’t hesitate to experiment with additional ingredients like fresh herbs or spices to personalize the dish to your taste!

FAQs

Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen prawns. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator in a colander set over a bowl to drain excess water. Pat them dry before marinating.

Is there a substitute for white wine in the sauce? If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with additional chicken or vegetable stock. While the flavor will be slightly different, it will still be delicious.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? While you can prepare components of the dish ahead of time, it’s best to cook the prawns and sauce fresh for optimal flavor and texture. If you need to prepare in advance, cook the prawns and store them separately from the sauce. Reheat gently before serving.

How can I make the dish spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic sauce for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Prawns are a delightful and elegant dish that is both simple to prepare and impressive to serve. With a rich garlic sauce featuring hints of white wine and parmesan, this recipe is a step above the rest. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a starter, the combination of flavors is sure to make it a memorable addition to any meal. Follow the steps outlined in this article, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious dish that will delight your guests and family alike. Enjoy the sumptuous flavors of Creamy Garlic Prawns, and savor every bite!