Tawa-tawa-inspired Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Ingredients

While the original Tawa-tawa dish is typically stir-fried, this adaptation takes a different approach by grilling the shrimp skewers. The marinade is also adjusted to incorporate Australasian flavors, such as ginger and lemongrass, to create a unique fusion of cuisines. We alse have the original recipe for Tawa-tawa, so you can check it out.

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce 2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) lemon juice 2 tablespoons (30ml) lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon (15g) ginger, grated 1 tablespoon (15g) ginger, grated
• 1 stalk lemongrass, finely chopped 1 stalk lemongrass, finely chopped
• 1 red chili, finely chopped 1 red chili, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 3g, 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped lemongrass, and red chili.
2. 2.
   Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated shrimp onto the soaked bamboo skewers.
5. 5.
   Season the shrimp skewers with salt and pepper.
6. 6.
   Grill the shrimp skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
7. 7.
   Remove from the grill and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Shrimp — Make sure to devein the shrimp properly to remove any grit or sand.
• Lemongrass — Use only the tender inner part of the lemongrass stalk for the best flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• Soaking the bamboo skewers in water prevents them from burning during grilling.
• For an extra kick of heat, add more chili to the marinade.
• Serve the grilled shrimp skewers with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the shrimp skewers on a stovetop grill pan or under the broiler.
• Feel free to customize the marinade by adding other Australasian spices like turmeric or coriander.

Serving advice

Serve the Tawa-tawa-inspired Grilled Shrimp Skewers as a main course alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. They can also be served as an appetizer at a summer barbecue or as part of a seafood platter.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled shrimp skewers on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint. Serve with a side of lemon wedges for squeezing over the shrimp.