How to Make Traditional French Prawns Provencal
French cuisine is celebrated for its rich flavors and vibrant ingredients, and one of the highlights is the classic dish known as Prawns Provençal. This dish encapsulates the essence of Southern France, where seafood meets aromatic herbs and spices. If you're eager to bring a taste of Provence into your kitchen, this guide on how to make traditional French Prawns Provençal will get you started.
Ingredients
To create mouthwatering Prawns Provençal, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) large prawns, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Crusty bread for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Prawns
Start by rinsing the prawns under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This ensures that they cook evenly.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn.
Step 3: Add the Prawns
Add the prawns to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. This cooking time may vary depending on the size of the prawns.
Step 4: Incorporate the Vegetables and Spices
Once the prawns are almost cooked, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh parsley, basil, thyme, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften slightly.
Step 5: Finish with Lemon
Remove the skillet from heat and squeeze the juice of one lemon over the dish. This brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer the Prawns Provençal to a serving platter, garnishing with extra fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips for the Perfect Prawns Provençal
- Quality Prawns: Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen prawns for the best flavor.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like dill or tarragon to personalize the dish.
- Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Making traditional French Prawns Provençal is a delightful way to explore the essence of Provencal cuisine. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests, and it pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine. Enjoy the explosion of flavors that brings the taste of the French Riviera right to your dining table!