Grilled Škampi with Ainu Twist

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we infuse the original Croatian dish, Škampi na gradele, with traditional Ainu spices and flavors. The original dish typically focuses on the natural flavors of the Škampi, while the Ainu twist adds a layer of complexity and depth to the dish. The use of Ainu spices and ingredients transforms the overall taste profile, creating a fusion of Croatian and Ainu cuisines. We alse have the original recipe for Škampi na gradele, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) Škampi (prawns) 500g (1.1 lb) Škampi (prawns)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin 1 tablespoon mirin
• 1 tablespoon sake 1 tablespoon sake
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon Ainu pepper (or substitute with black pepper) 1 teaspoon Ainu pepper (or substitute with black pepper)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 6g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, and Ainu pepper.
2. 2.
   Add the Škampi to the marinade and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Brush the grill grates with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
5. 5.
   Remove the Škampi from the marinade and grill them for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and slightly charred.
6. 6.
   Transfer the grilled Škampi to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro.
7. 7.
   Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Škampi — Make sure to clean and devein the Škampi before marinating them. Remove the shells, leaving the tails intact for an attractive presentation.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smokier flavor, grill the Škampi over charcoal instead of a gas grill.
• Adjust the amount of Ainu pepper according to your spice preference.
• Serve the grilled Škampi with a side of traditional Ainu pickles for an authentic experience.
• If you can't find Ainu pepper, you can substitute it with black pepper for a milder flavor.
• Make sure not to overcook the Škampi to maintain their tender texture.

Serving advice

Serve the Grilled Škampi with Ainu Twist as a main course alongside steamed rice or grilled vegetables. The dish pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled Škampi on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro. Serve with a wedge of lemon for squeezing over the Škampi before enjoying.