Mizrahi-style Stuffed Prawns

Ingredients

In this Mizrahi adaptation, the Chinese Butterfly Prawns are transformed into Mizrahi-style Stuffed Prawns. The original dish is typically deep-fried, but in this recipe, the prawns are baked to reduce the amount of oil used. The stuffing is also modified to incorporate Mizrahi flavors, using a blend of herbs and spices commonly found in Mizrahi Jewish cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Butterfly Prawns, so you can check it out.

• 12 large prawns, deveined and butterflied 12 large prawns, deveined and butterflied
• 1/2 cup (120ml) fresh parsley, finely chopped 1/2 cup (120ml) fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh cilantro, finely chopped 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 cup (50g) breadcrumbs 1/2 cup (50g) breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a bowl, combine the parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, breadcrumbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Take each butterflied prawn and spoon a generous amount of the herb and breadcrumb mixture into the cavity.
4. 4.
   Place the stuffed prawns on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the prawns are cooked through and the stuffing is golden brown.
5. 5.
   Serve the Mizrahi-style Stuffed Prawns hot as an appetizer or main course.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Prawns — Ensure the prawns are fresh and deveined properly for the best taste and texture.
• Fresh herbs — Use fresh parsley and cilantro for vibrant flavors. Chop them finely to distribute the flavors evenly.
• Breadcrumbs — Opt for high-quality breadcrumbs or make your own by toasting and grinding stale bread.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the herb and breadcrumb mixture.
• Serve the Mizrahi-style Stuffed Prawns with a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing tang.
• If you prefer a crispier stuffing, broil the prawns for the last 1-2 minutes of baking.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the stuffing to your taste.
• Serve the prawns on a bed of couscous or rice pilaf for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Mizrahi-style Stuffed Prawns as an appetizer with a side of tahini sauce or as a main course accompanied by a fresh salad and warm pita bread.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stuffed prawns on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. The golden-brown prawns with their flavorful stuffing will make an impressive centerpiece for any table.