Grilled King Prawn
Seafood • Sri Lanka
ගැන Grilled King Prawn
King prawns brushed with garlic butter and char-grilled.
How to Make Grilled King Prawn (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Grilled King Prawn is a celebrated Sri Lankan coastal delicacy, renowned for its vibrant flavors and health benefits. Hailing from the sun-kissed shores of Sri Lanka, this dish showcases the nation’s deep-rooted love for seafood, especially prawns, which are abundantly harvested by local fishermen. The recipe features succulent king prawns marinated in a blend of aromatic spices, fresh lime juice, and herbs, then grilled to perfection. The result is a mouthwatering creation that captures the essence of Sri Lankan cuisine: bold, spicy, and fresh. Sri Lankan Grilled King Prawn is not only a treat for the palate but also a feast for the senses, thanks to its tantalizing aroma and visually appealing presentation. It is often served during family gatherings, festive occasions, and beachside meals, reflecting the nation’s connection to the Indian Ocean. The dish perfectly balances the natural sweetness of prawns with the heat of local spices like chili, black pepper, and turmeric. With its minimal use of oil and reliance on grilling, this recipe is ideal for health-conscious food lovers seeking authentic Sri Lankan flavor without compromising nutrition.
Ingredients(for 2-3 large king prawns per serving, typical for Sri Lankan coastal meals)
- 6-8 large King prawns (fresh, cleaned, deveined)
- 2 tablespoons Lime juice (freshly squeezed; 'Dehi' in Sinhala)
- 1 teaspoon Sri Lankan chili powder (local variety preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric powder (pure turmeric)
- 3 cloves Garlic (finely minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 tablespoon Coconut oil (for brushing)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (to taste)
- 6-8 leaves Curry leaves (fresh, optional for garnish) - optional
- 2 tablespoons Coriander leaves (finely chopped for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Clean and devein the king prawns, leaving the shells and tails intact for flavor and presentation.
5 minutes
Keep tails on to retain moisture during grilling.
- 2
Prepare the marinade by mixing lime juice, chili powder, turmeric, garlic, black pepper, and salt in a bowl.
5 minutes
Use freshly squeezed lime for maximum zest.
- 3
Coat the prawns evenly with the marinade and let them rest for at least 10 minutes to absorb flavors.
10 minutes
Marinate longer for deeper flavor if time allows.
- 4
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates lightly with coconut oil to prevent sticking.
3 minutes
Use coconut oil for authentic Sri Lankan aroma.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Grilled King Prawn is a healthy choice because it relies on grilling instead of frying, minimizing excess oil and calories. The use of fresh, whole ingredients ensures maximum nutritional value without processed additives. With high protein, healthy fats, and minimal carbs, it supports muscle building, weight management, and overall wellness. The spices and herbs contribute added health benefits without compromising flavor.
King prawns are a lean source of high-quality protein, low in saturated fat, and rich in essential minerals like selenium, zinc, and iodine. The use of spices such as turmeric and chili adds antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits, while coconut oil offers heart-healthy fats. Lime juice provides vitamin C, aiding iron absorption. This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets and those monitoring calorie intake.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Marinate prawns for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Use fresh, local king prawns for best taste and texture.
- 💡Tip 3: Grill over charcoal for authentic smoky Sri Lankan aroma.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover grilled prawns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out. Do not freeze after grilling for best texture.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 145.0 kcal |
| Protein | 20.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2.0 g |
| Total Fat | 6.4 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |