Wild Madagascan Tiger Prawns

Madagascan tiger prawns are large, succulent prawns known for their distinctive striped shells and sweet, tender meat. They are named for their tiger-like stripes and are highly prized in seafood cuisine for their flavour and texture.

Characteristics:

• Appearance: These prawns have a characteristic orange-brown or greyish shell with vertical stripes, resembling a tiger’s markings. The meat is firm and opaque when cooked.
• Flavour: Madagascan tiger prawns are known for their sweet, delicate flavour and meaty texture, making them a favourite for grilling, sautéing, and other cooking methods.

How to Cook Madagascan Tiger Prawns:

1. Grilling:

   • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
   • Marinate the prawns with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and your choice of herbs or spices.
   • Grill the prawns for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are opaque and slightly charred.

2. Sautéing:

   • Heat a bit of olive oil or butter in a pan over medium-high heat.
   • Add the prawns and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. You can add garlic, chilli, or other seasonings for extra flavour.

3. Boiling:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the prawns and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they turn pink and are cooked through.
   • Drain and serve with a squeeze of lemon or your favourite dipping sauce.

4. Baking:

   • Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
   • Arrange the prawns on a baking sheet, season with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they are cooked through and slightly crispy.

Serving Suggestions:

1. Seafood Pasta:

   • Toss cooked Madagascan tiger prawns with pasta, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and a splash of white wine for a delicious seafood pasta dish.

2. Salads:

   • Add grilled prawns to a fresh salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a light citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.

3. Appetizers:

   • Serve prawns as an appetizer with a garlic butter dip or a spicy aioli.

4. Skewers:

   • Thread prawns onto skewers and grill them for easy and flavorful skewers. Serve with a side of rice or a vegetable medley.

Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store fresh prawns in the coldest part of the refrigerator and use within 1-2 days.
• Freezing: If you’re not using them right away, you can freeze prawns for up to 3 months. Make sure they’re properly sealed in an airtight container or freezer bag to avoid freezer burn.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Madagascan tiger prawns are a good source of protein, low in fat, and provide essential nutrients such as vitamins B12 and E, as well as minerals like selenium and zinc.

Madagascan tiger prawns are a versatile and delicious seafood option that can enhance a wide range of dishes with their sweet, meaty flavour and satisfying texture.