Prawns are one of the easiest and most rewarding things to cook on the barbecue. The high heat cooks them quickly while adding a light smoky flavour that works beautifully with their natural sweetness. Whether you’re cooking them shell-on or peeled, the key is a hot grill and a short cooking time.
Cooking shell-on prawns on the barbecue
Shell-on prawns are fantastic on the barbecue. The shell protects the meat from the direct heat and helps keep the prawns juicy while they cook. It also adds extra flavour as the shells heat up.
Toss the prawns lightly in olive oil with a little salt and place them directly onto the grill over medium to high heat. Cook for around 2–3 minutes on each side until the shells turn bright pink and the flesh inside becomes opaque.
You can also add garlic butter, chilli or herbs as they cook, letting the heat bring everything together. When they’re ready, simply peel and enjoy.
Cooking peeled prawns on the barbecue
Peeled prawns cook even faster and are perfect for skewers or cooking on a plancha plate or flat grill. They work perfectly directly on the fabulous Monolith grill with hot plate.
Thread the prawns onto skewers or place them on a hot barbecue plate with a little oil. Cook them over high heat for around 1–2 minutes on each side. Because they don’t have their shell to protect them, they need slightly less time.
Skewers make them easier to handle and help prevent them from falling through the grill.
How to know when barbecue prawns are ready?
Prawns cook very quickly, so keep a close eye on them. They are ready when:
The flesh turns opaque rather than translucent
They form a gentle C shape
The surface becomes lightly firm
Overcooked prawns curl tightly and become firm and rubbery, so it’s best to take them off the grill as soon as they’re done.
Simple Flavours That Work Brilliantly
Prawns cooked on the barbecue work best with simple flavours that enhance their sweetness. Try:
Garlic butter
Lemon and parsley
Chilli and olive oil
Smoked paprika and olive oil
Butter and a squeeze of lemon
A Final Tip
Make sure your barbecue is properly hot before the prawns go on. A quick cook over strong heat gives you the best flavour and texture. Serve them straight from the grill while they’re hot and juicy.
