Tender and Fresh Salt-Grilled Giant Prawns (Daeha)
Tender and Fresh Salt-Grilled Giant Prawns (Daeha)
How to Enjoy Delicious Salt-Grilled Giant Prawns
Giant prawns, or ‘Daeha,’ often refer to large, fresh whiteleg shrimp. While there are many ways to cook them, this recipe introduces the simplest method: salt-grilling. This method allows you to savor the natural sweetness and succulent texture of the prawns. Perfect for a special occasion or just a delightful meal at home!
Ingredients- 2 kg Live Giant Prawns (preferably large, fresh whiteleg shrimp)
- Plenty of coarse sea salt (enough to cover the bottom of the pan)
- 100g ‘Chojang’ (spicy Korean dipping sauce) for serving
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce (optional, for mixing with Chojang)
- A little wasabi (to taste)
- 1 Tbsp butter (for grilling the prawn heads, optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Freshness is key! Start with live giant prawns, ideally purchased directly from a live seafood truck. The lively movement is a sign of their freshness. Gently rinse them under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
Step 2
Now, let’s prepare for grilling. Spread about 1 cm of coarse sea salt evenly across the bottom of a thick pan or wok. Arrange the prawns on top of the salt, leaving some space between them so they cook evenly and don’t stick together. The salt helps absorb excess moisture, resulting in tender and flavorful prawns.
Step 3
Grill over high heat for about 8 to 10 minutes. Cook until the prawns turn bright pink and become firm and plump. Flipping them halfway through ensures even cooking. If you have a lid for your pan, use it to trap heat and steam, making the cooking process faster and the prawns more succulent. Enjoy the enticing aroma as they cook!
Step 4
Let’s prepare some delicious dipping sauces to complement the grilled prawns. A sweet and spicy ‘Chojang’ is a classic choice, or you can opt for a simple soy sauce-based dip. For an extra kick, mix a little wasabi into your sauce of choice. The slight heat of the wasabi perfectly cuts through the richness of the prawns.
Step 5
Since 2 kg is a generous amount, it’s best to grill them in batches as you eat. This way, you can enjoy the prawns warm and fresh. As you peel and eat, set aside the heads separately. These heads are a delicacy in themselves and can be cooked further!
Step 6
Place the reserved prawn heads in a separate pan. Add about 1 tablespoon of butter. Sauté over medium-low heat until the butter melts and coats the heads. Continue to stir and cook, allowing the natural juices from the heads to meld with the butter, creating a rich and savory flavor.
Step 7
The ultimate in savory deliciousness – your butter-grilled prawn heads are ready! They offer a delightful crispy texture and an intensely rich, buttery flavor. Serve these alongside your juicy salt-grilled prawns for a meal where not a single part of the delicious Daeha goes to waste. This salt-grilled giant prawn recipe, complete with flavorful heads, is perfect for celebrations, camping trips, or an impressive home-cooked meal!
