Introduction
Prawn cocktails are a classic and elegant dish that offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Whether served as a starter or a main dish, this recipe highlights the fresh taste of prawns complemented by a creamy cocktail sauce. With a balance of warmth from horseradish and a hint of spice from Tabasco, it’s sure to impress guests at any gathering. Follow this guide to create your own delicious prawn cocktail.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 kg (2 lb) medium fresh cooked or raw prawns with shell and heads on (yields approximately 600 g/1.2 lb peeled)
600 g (1.2 lb) fresh cooked prawns, already peeled
3 cups iceberg lettuce, finely sliced
2/3 cup (165 ml) mayonnaise (preferably good quality whole egg mayonnaise)
1 tablespoon ketchup (or Australian/UK tomato sauce)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon freshly grated horseradish (or substitute 1½ teaspoons jarred horseradish or ¾ teaspoon wasabi)
Dash of Tabasco sauce (to taste)
Pinch of cayenne pepper (to taste and for a hint of color)
Lemon wedges
Finely chopped parsley (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
3 minutes (if using raw prawns)
Total Time
18 minutes (plus optional refrigeration time)
Yield
Serves approximately 4-6 people
Directions
1. **Prepare the Prawns:**
If using raw prawns, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the prawns and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, peel and devein the prawns, leaving tails intact if desired. If using cooked prawns, simply peel and devein them, leaving tails intact if desired.
2. **Make the Cocktail Sauce:**
In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, grated horseradish, Tabasco sauce, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
3. **Assemble the Prawn Cocktails:**
Place a handful of finely sliced iceberg lettuce into each serving glass or bowl. Arrange the peeled prawns on top of the lettuce. Drizzle the cocktail sauce over the prawns. Garnish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley, if using.
4. **Serve:**
Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your refreshing prawn cocktail!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Prawns
– If using raw prawns, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the prawns and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, peel and devein the prawns, leaving tails intact if desired.
– If using cooked prawns, simply peel and devein them, leaving tails intact if desired.
Make the Cocktail Sauce
– In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, grated horseradish, Tabasco sauce, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Assemble the Prawn Cocktails
– Place a handful of finely sliced iceberg lettuce into each serving glass or bowl.
– Arrange the peeled prawns on top of the lettuce.
– Drizzle the cocktail sauce over the prawns.
– Garnish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley, if using.
Serve
– Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
For Raw Prawns
– Ensure the prawns are fresh and properly cleaned before cooking.
Mayonnaise Quality
– Using high-quality whole egg mayonnaise enhances the flavor of the cocktail sauce.
Sauce Adjustments
– Modify the amount of horseradish, Tabasco sauce, and cayenne pepper according to your taste preference for spiciness.
Serving Suggestions
– This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be prepared ahead of time and chilled for a convenient serving option.
Cook techniques
Cooking Raw Prawns
To cook raw prawns, bring salted water to a boil. Add the prawns and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Drain and place them in ice water to stop the cooking process.
Preparing Cooked Prawns
For cooked prawns, simply peel and devein them. Leaving the tails intact can enhance presentation.
Making Cocktail Sauce
Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, grated horseradish, Tabasco sauce, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Mix until smooth and adjust seasoning to taste.
Assembling the Prawn Cocktail
Layer finely sliced iceberg lettuce in serving glasses or bowls. Arrange cooked prawns on the lettuce and drizzle with the prepared cocktail sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges and parsley if desired.
Serving Prawn Cocktails
Serve immediately for the best freshness, or chill in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving to enhance the flavors.
FAQ
Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen prawns. Thaw them before cooking or peeling.
What type of mayonnaise is recommended?
A good quality whole egg mayonnaise is recommended for the best flavor.
Can I make the cocktail sauce in advance?
Yes, the cocktail sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the cocktail sauce?
You can adjust the spiciness by modifying the amount of Tabasco sauce and cayenne pepper to your taste.
Is it necessary to use horseradish?
While horseradish adds a unique flavor, it can be substituted with wasabi or omitted if desired.
Conclusion
Enjoying a delightful prawn cocktail makes for an impressive appetizer or light meal. The combination of fresh prawns, crispy iceberg lettuce, and a zesty cocktail sauce captures the essence of coastal dining. With its vibrant flavors and appealing presentation, this dish is sure to please your guests and elevate any gathering.
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