Prawns are one of the most popular seafood options for barbecues, and for good reason. They’re succulent, flavorful, and incredibly easy to cook. But, if you’re new to the world of gas BBQ cooking, you might be wondering: how do you cook prawns to perfection on a gas BBQ? Fear not, dear reader, for we’re about to dive into a comprehensive guide that will have you cooking like a pro in no time.
Preparing Your Prawns for the BBQ
Before we get started, it’s essential to prepare your prawns for the BBQ. This step is often overlooked, but trust us, it makes all the difference.
Thawing and Peeling
If you’ve purchased frozen prawns, make sure to thaw them first. You can do this by leaving them in the fridge overnight or by submerging them in cold water for a few hours. Once thawed, peel the prawns, leaving the tail intact. This will help them cook evenly and prevent them from curling up during cooking.
Rinsing and Pat Drying
Rinse the prawns under cold running water to remove any impurities. Then, pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial, as it helps the prawns cook evenly and prevents them from steaming instead of grilling.
Marinating (Optional)
If you want to add some extra flavor to your prawns, consider marinating them in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs and spices. Marinating can be as short as 30 minutes or as long as overnight, depending on your preference.
Heat Control: The Key to Perfectly Cooked Prawns
Heat control is the most critical aspect of cooking prawns on a gas BBQ. Prawns cook quickly, and if the heat is too high, they can become tough and overcooked.
Preheating Your Gas BBQ
Preheat your gas BBQ to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C). Make sure to adjust the burners to ensure even heat distribution. You want the grills to be hot, but not scorching.
Cooking Zones
Create a cooking zone on your BBQ by adjusting the burners to create a hot zone and a cooler zone. The hot zone should be around 400°F (200°C), while the cooler zone should be around 300°F (150°C). This will allow you to cook the prawns quickly and then move them to a cooler zone to prevent overcooking.
Cooking Prawns on a Gas BBQ: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that your prawns are prepared and your BBQ is preheated, it’s time to cook!
Step 1: Add Oil to the Grills
Using a paper towel dipped in oil, brush the grills to prevent the prawns from sticking. This is an essential step, as it will make it easier to flip the prawns and prevent them from breaking apart.
Step 2: Add Prawns to the Hot Zone
Place the prawns on the hot zone, leaving some space between each one to allow for even cooking. Close the lid to trap the heat and cook for 2-3 minutes, depending on the size of your prawns.
Step 3: Flip and Cook for Another 2-3 Minutes
Flip the prawns over and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until they’re pink and cooked through. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare and 160°F (71°C) for medium.
Step 4: Move to the Cooler Zone
Once the prawns are cooked, move them to the cooler zone to prevent overcooking. This step is crucial, as it will help the prawns retain their moisture and flavor.
Serving and Enjoying Your Delicious BBQ Prawns
The final step: serving and enjoying your delicious BBQ prawns!
Serving Suggestions
Serve your prawns with your favorite sides, such as garlic bread, salads, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve them with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of parsley for added flavor.
Tips and Variations
- Try different marinades and seasonings to add unique flavors to your prawns.
- Add some smokiness to your prawns by cooking them over wood chips or chunks.
- Serve your prawns as part of a larger BBQ feast, with grilled meats and vegetables.
| Cooking Time | Internal Temperature | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 minutes per side | 145°F (63°C) | Medium-rare, slightly pink in the center |
| 3-4 minutes per side | 160°F (71°C) | Medium, cooked through but still juicy |
In conclusion, cooking prawns on a gas BBQ is a straightforward process that requires some basic preparation and attention to heat control. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to cook delicious, succulent prawns that will impress your friends and family. So, fire up your gas BBQ and get ready to sizzle your way to a culinary success!
What is the recommended type of prawns to use for BBQing?
When it comes to BBQing prawns, you want to use fresh, high-quality prawns that can hold their flavor and texture. We recommend using King or Tiger prawns, which have a meaty texture and a sweet, tender flavor. Avoid using small or frozen prawns, as they can become mushy and lose their flavor when cooked.
Fresh prawns should have a mild smell, firm texture, and a glossy appearance. If you’re buying frozen prawns, make sure to thaw them properly before using them. You can also use processed prawns, such as peeled and deveined prawns, which can save you time and effort in preparation. However, be aware that processed prawns may have added preservatives or sodium, which can affect their flavor and texture.
How do I prepare prawns for BBQing?
Before BBQing prawns, you need to prepare them properly to ensure even cooking and to prevent them from sticking to the grill. Rinse the prawns under cold water, and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. If using whole prawns, remove the shell, leaving the tail intact. If using peeled and deveined prawns, skip this step. Next, season the prawns with your desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice.
You can also marinate the prawns in your favorite marinade for at least 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. This will help to add more flavor to the prawns. However, be careful not to over-marinate the prawns, as they can become mushy or develop an unpleasant texture. Once the prawns are prepared, you’re ready to throw them on the BBQ.
What is the ideal temperature for cooking prawns on a gas BBQ?
When cooking prawns on a gas BBQ, it’s essential to achieve the right temperature to ensure even cooking and to prevent overcooking. The ideal temperature for cooking prawns is between 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 200°C). This temperature range allows the prawns to cook quickly and evenly, while preventing them from becoming tough or rubbery.
To achieve the right temperature, preheat your gas BBQ to the desired temperature, and make sure the grill is clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking. Once the prawns are on the grill, close the lid to trap the heat and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re pink and cooked through.
How do I prevent prawns from sticking to the grill?
One of the most common problems when cooking prawns on a gas BBQ is that they can stick to the grill, which can lead to a messy and frustrating experience. To prevent prawns from sticking to the grill, make sure to oil the grill grates properly before cooking. You can use a paper towel dipped in oil to brush the grates, or use a grill brush to apply a thin layer of oil.
Another tip is to pat the prawns dry with paper towels before cooking to remove excess moisture. This will help the prawns cook more evenly and prevent them from sticking to the grill. Finally, don’t overcrowd the grill, as this can cause the prawns to stick together and to the grill. Cook the prawns in batches if necessary, to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly.
How long does it take to cook prawns on a gas BBQ?
The cooking time for prawns on a gas BBQ depends on several factors, such as the size and type of prawns, the heat, and the desired level of doneness. As a general rule, cook prawns for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re pink and cooked through. King prawns typically take around 4-5 minutes to cook, while smaller prawns may take only 2-3 minutes.
It’s essential to keep an eye on the prawns while they’re cooking, as they can quickly go from undercooked to overcooked. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the prawns, which should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare and 165°F (74°C) for well-done. Once the prawns are cooked, remove them from the grill and serve immediately.
Can I cook prawns on a gas BBQ with the shell on?
While it’s possible to cook prawns on a gas BBQ with the shell on, it’s not always the best approach. Cooking prawns with the shell on can make them more difficult to peel and can lead to a less tender texture. Additionally, the shell can char and become brittle, which can affect the overall flavor and appearance of the dish.
However, if you do choose to cook prawns with the shell on, make sure to rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any impurities. Pat the prawns dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, and season them with your desired seasonings. Cook the prawns as you normally would, but be aware that they may take slightly longer to cook due to the shell.
How do I store leftover prawns?
After cooking prawns on a gas BBQ, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain their flavor and texture. Once the prawns have cooled, refrigerate them in an airtight container within two hours of cooking. Make sure to keep them at a temperature below 40°F (4°C) to prevent bacterial growth.
Cooked prawns can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, or frozen for up to three months. When freezing prawns, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When reheating leftover prawns, make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.