Gambas a la plancha (Griddled prawns)

"A la plancha" is a Spanish culinary term that translates to "grilled" or "cooked on a griddle" in English.  It refers to a cooking technique where food, often seafood or meat, is cooked on a hot metal surface, such as a griddle or a flat-top grill. This method typically involves minimal oil or fat and results in a seared, slightly charred exterior while keeping the interior moist and flavoursome.  It is a popular cooking style for a variety of dishes in Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine.

The dish is quick but really delicious.  It makes and excellent starter.

Preparation Time: 5 Mins

Cooking Time: 3 Mins

Total Time: 10 Mins

Ingredients

For 2 servings…

1 clove             Garlic  - chopped      

1 tsp               Parsley  - flat leaved  

2 tbs               Olive oil     

1 tbs               Salt  - rock 

8                    Prawns  - large, raw, shell-on   

1 wedge           Lemon      

Method

Mix the garlic, parsley and olive oil in a bowl.

Cooking a la plancha requires an extremely hot pan.  Place a large heavy-based frying pan over a high heat.  While the pan is heating up sprinkle the salt over the surface.  When the pan is searing hot, place the prawns on top of the salt.

After 2 minutes, drizzle the prawns with the garlic and parsley oil and turn them over.  Because the pan is so hot the oil will immediately smoke a lot, but this will give the distinctive aroma of the plancha style of cooking.  Cook the prawns for another minute.

Squeeze some lemon juice over the prawns before transferring to a serving plate.

Wine recommendations

An aromatic white wine.

Conventional

     Muscadet Sèvre et Maine Sur lie

     Txakoli de Getaria

Interesting

     Entre-deux-Mers

     Pinot Gris