By Ujjainee Roy
September 4, 2024
Prawns are a versatile and popular seafood option, known for their delicate flavor and tender texture. However, they can easily become tough and rubbery if not cooked properly. To ensure your prawns stay soft and succulent, it's important to use the right cooking techniques and practices. Here are some ways to keep prawns soft while cooking.
The most crucial tip for keeping prawns soft is to avoid overcooking them. Prawns cook very quickly, typically in just a few minutes. Overcooking causes them to become tough and chewy. To prevent this, cook prawns only until they turn pink and opaque
Brining prawns before cooking can help retain their moisture and keep them tender. To make a simple brine, dissolve 1 tablespoon of salt in 1 cup of water. Submerge the prawns in the brine and let them sit for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
Cooking prawns on medium to high heat ensures they cook quickly without losing too much moisture. Whether you're sautéing, grilling, or stir-frying, high heat allows the prawns to sear and cook evenly without becoming overdone
Coating prawns lightly with flour, cornstarch, or a marinade before cooking can protect their delicate texture. The coating forms a barrier that locks in moisture, preventing the prawns from drying out during cooking
The way prawns are prepared before cooking can also impact their texture. When deveining and peeling prawns, do so carefully to avoid damaging the flesh. Any rough handling can break down the prawn's structure, leading to a tougher texture when cooked.
If you're cooking prawns as part of a larger dish, such as a curry, stir-fry, or pasta, add them towards the end of the cooking process. This ensures they are exposed to heat just long enough to cook through without becoming overcooked.