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The oceans and seas covering more than 70% of the planet are a mysterious area with an enormous number of creatures, many of which are even part of the human diet. Prawns are small aquatic crustaceans found in different regions of the world and are an important creature for the fishing industry. Their tender meat is people's favourite, and it is widely used to prepare various delicious dishes. The versatility and amazing taste make it a staple in many people's daily diets.
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While the tender meat might be everyone's favourite, the shells and prawn heads are often discarded for no use. However, the shells and heads of prawns are treasure troves of flavour and nutrients that can elevate a dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Understanding the value of these components can not only enhance your cooking but also promote a more sustainable approach to seafood consumption.
Prawn Stock
Prawn stock is a culinary gem you shouldn't discard. Made from prawn shells and heads, this stock is rich in flavour and nutrients. Simply simmer the shells and heads with onions, garlic, celery, carrots, and herbs like thyme and bay leaves. Add a splash of white wine for depth. The result is a deeply aromatic broth, perfect for enhancing soups, risottos, and seafood dishes. Its umami-rich taste adds a gourmet touch to any recipe, making it a valuable addition to your cooking repertoire.
Prawn Oil
Packed with rich, umami flavours, it elevates any dish. To make prawn oil, simmer prawn shells and heads in a mix of olive oil and garlic until aromatic. Add a pinch of chilli flakes for a hint of heat and a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Strain and store this vibrant orange oil. Use it to drizzle over pasta, risotto, or seafood dishes, infusing them with an irresistible, deep-sea taste.
Prawn Butter
Simmer the shells with aromatic ingredients like garlic, shallots, and herbs in butter until deeply fragrant. Strain, yielding a luxurious, seafood-infused butter. This versatile condiment adds depth to risotto and pasta or can be simply spread on crusty bread. Its briny, umami-packed flavour elevates dishes with a taste of the sea, highlighting the often-overlooked parts of the prawn. Sustainable and delicious, prawn butter embodies culinary innovation, turning kitchen scraps into gourmet delights that impress with every bite.
Prawn Stock Powder
Clean prawn shells and heads properly by rinsing them under water, spreading them on the baking sheet and then baking them in the oven at 180F for 12 hours to dehydrate them. Once you're done, you can grind them into a mixture, and you will get your flavour-enhancing powder. Use it to enhance soups, risottos, or sauces, adding complexity and depth effortlessly.
Prawn Head Crisps
Don't discard prawn shells and heads—they're a secret to delicious prawn head crisps! After cleaning, toss them in olive oil, sprinkle with salt and paprika, and bake until crispy. The result? Irresistibly crunchy snacks bursting with umami richness. Enjoy these morsels on their own or as toppings for soups and salads, offering a sustainable and flavourful twist on seafood consumption. Embrace their intense seafood flavour and crispy texture, turning what might be wasted into a gourmet treat that elevates any meal.
