If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavourful dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, then look no further than chilli lime prawn skewers. They're perfect for air frying, allowing you to achieve that irresistible char-grilled taste without the need for an outdoor grill. In this article, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step process to create these delicious skewers that are bound to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 500g raw prawns, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 teaspoons chilli flakes (adjust according to your spice preference)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Handful of fresh coriander, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, honey, garlic, chilli flakes, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Add the prawns to the marinade. Toss them well to ensure they're fully coated. Cover the bowl with cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the prawns to absorb all the zesty flavours.
- If using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (approximately 392°F).
- Thread the marinated prawns onto the skewers, ensuring they are spread out evenly. This helps to cook them thoroughly and evenly.
- Place the prawn skewers in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook them in batches.
- Air fry the prawns for about 8-10 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are pink and opaque with a slight char.
- Once cooked, remove the skewers from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute or two.
- Garnish with freshly chopped coriander before serving, if desired, and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Chilli Lime Prawn Skewers
- Always choose fresh, firm prawns for this recipe. If frozen, make sure they are completely thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture.
- The marinating time allows the prawns to soak up all the delicious flavours, so don’t skip this step. If time allows, marinating for up to 2 hours can intensify the taste.
- Adjust the level of chilli to your taste. If you're not a fan of spice, reduce the amount of chilli flakes or use a milder variety.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Air frying is a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods, reducing the amount of oil needed to achieve crispy, delicious results. It's also quicker and more convenient than using a grill, especially for indoor cooking. The air circulation in the fryer ensures that food is cooked evenly, resulting in juicy prawns with a crisp exterior.
Serving Suggestions
These skewers make an excellent starter or can be served as part of a main course. Pair them with a fresh salad, or serve alongside a fragrant jasmine rice. They also work wonderfully as part of a seafood platter when entertaining guests.
Conclusion
Chilli lime prawn skewers are an explosion of flavours that are sure to become a favourite in your culinary repertoire. With their quick preparation and the convenience of an air fryer, you can enjoy this delightful dish in no time. So why not give it a try at your next gathering and watch as these skewers become the star of the show?