Piri Piri Prawn Skewers

Introduction to Piri Piri Prawn Skewers

Piri Piri, also known as peri-peri or pili pili, is a type of chili pepper that is popular for its fiery flavor. This dish, Piri Piri Prawn Skewers, is infused with flavors from Portugal and Africa, blending the heat of the piri piri chili with the freshness of succulent prawns. The origins of piri piri sauce date back to the 15th century when Portuguese explorers brought these peppers from the New World back to Africa, where they cultivated a unique blend of spices and ingredients. Today, piri piri sauce is cherished worldwide for its versatility and vibrant flavor profile.

Ingredients

• Prawns - 500g, peeled and deveined
• Piri Piri sauce - 1/2 cup
• Olive oil - 3 tablespoons
• Lemon - 1, juiced
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Red bell pepper - 1, chopped
• Onion - 1 small, chopped
• Ground cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Fresh parsley - for garnish
• Skewers - soaked in water, if wooden

Preparation

Marinating the Prawns

Begin by combining the piri piri sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, ground cumin, and paprika in a large bowl. Stir until the marinade is well blended. Add the prawns into the marinade and toss until they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

Preparing the Vegetables

While the prawns marinate, prepare the red bell pepper and onion. Chop them into bite-sized pieces, similar in size to the prawns, for even cooking.

Cooking the Piri Piri Prawn Skewers

Assembling the Skewers

After marinating, remove the prawns from the refrigerator. Thread the marinated prawns, red bell pepper, and onion pieces onto the soaked skewers, alternating between the ingredients for a colorful presentation.

Grilling the Skewers

Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. Once the grill is hot, place the skewers on the grill grate. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the prawns are opaque and cooked through. Be mindful not to overcook the prawns as they can become rubbery quickly. If unsure about the cooking time, use a timer to manage your grilling process effectively.

Serving Piri Piri Prawn Skewers

Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness. Serve immediately, perhaps with a side of seasoned rice or a fresh salad. These skewers make for a perfect light lunch or a vibrant starter at a dinner party.

Enjoying Your Meal

Piri Piri Prawn Skewers are best enjoyed with friends and family. The combination of spicy, tangy flavors will excite your taste buds. Pair the dish with a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade to balance the heat of the piri piri spice.