How to Cook & Eat BC Spot Prawns

How to Cook & Eat BC Spot Prawns
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British Columbia spot prawns, from the West Coast of Canada, have a sweet, delicate flavor and firm texture. Grill them whole with olive oil, salt and lemon juice, and enjoy their exceptional flavor. Grilling prawns in their shells retains their flavor and moisture. Serve with a side of sauteed greens for a light and tasty dinner. You'll need about 15 minutes to prepare and cook your spot prawns.

Step 1

Rn the tip of a small knife down the curved side, or back, of the prawn. Leaving the shell on, pull out the dark intestinal "vein" in the center of the back of prawn with the tip of the knife or your fingers. Dispose of the veins.

Step 2

Preheat the grill to high.

Step 3

Brush the prawns thoroughly with olive oil so that they are lightly oiled all over. Sprinkle them with salt and pepper.

Step 4

Place the prawns on the grill, and cook them two to three minutes on each side. Spot prawns are fully cooked when it is pink and lightly charred. Use a long-handled tongs to turn each prawn.

Step 5

Remove the prawns from the grill, and transfer them to a platter or individual plates. Serve them with lemon wedges.

Tips and Warnings

  • BC Seafood Online recommends that when you buy spot prawns, ensure that they feel firm, have few or no black spots and smell of the sea with no hint of ammonia. If you are using frozen prawns, let them thaw thoroughly before cooking.
  • Do not overcook the prawns, because they will get tough.

Things You'll Need

  • 16 B.C. spot prawns
  • small sharp knife
  • 3 to 4 tbsp. olive oil
  • Brush for applying oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • Long handled tongs
  • 1 lemon cut into wedges

References

Article reviewed by Adela McKay Last updated on: May 27, 2011

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