Vietnamese-style prawn and squid skewers

These fragrant Vietnamese-style prawn and squid skewers deliver vibrant flavours with turmeric, lime, and chillies, served banh mi-style in baguettes with crunchy garnishes, offering a fresh, healthy, and satisfying meal.

By Matt Tebbutt
From Saturday Kitchen

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This recipe enjoys a Nutri-Score A, thanks to its lean seafood protein, fresh herbs, moderate healthy fats, and minimal processing, making it a great choice for a balanced healthy diet.

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Method

Marinate the Prawns and Squid (10 minutes)

1. Mix marinade: In a medium bowl, combine garlic, ginger paste, turmeric, black pepper, lime juice, palm sugar, chopped chillies, fish sauce, and vegetable oil.
2. Add seafood: Add peeled prawns and squid rings to the marinade. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
3. Rest: Leave to marinate for 10 minutes, allowing the flavours to infuse.

Cook the Skewers (2-3 minutes)

1. Prepare skewers: Thread prawns and squid rings alternately onto skewers.
2. Heat grill: Preheat grill to high.
3. Grill: Cook skewers for 2-3 minutes, turning halfway, until the seafood is just cooked and slightly charred.

Make the Dipping Sauce (5 minutes)

1. Combine ingredients: Mix lime juice, fish sauce, palm sugar, and sliced chillies in a small bowl until sugar dissolves.
2. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust balance of sour, sweet, and salty as needed.

Assemble and Serve

1. Prepare baguettes: Split baguettes and spread with mayonnaise and sriracha to taste.
2. Fill: Remove seafood from skewers and layer inside baguettes.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle roasted peanuts and chopped coriander over the top.
4. Serve: Offer alongside dipping sauce for extra flavour.

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Suggested Wine Pairing

• Riesling: A slightly off-dry Riesling complements the spicy heat and lime in the dish while balancing the seafood delicately.
• Pinot Gris: Light-bodied and aromatic, it pairs well with the fresh herbs and fragrant spices.
• Rosé: A dry rosé from Provence offers refreshing acidity to balance the richness of the prawns and squid.

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What can you serve with this

1. Pickled vegetables: Adds crunch and acidity to balance the grilled seafood flavours.
2. Jasmine rice: A fragrant, neutral side that absorbs any extra sauce.
3. Fresh cucumber salad: Cooling and crisp, it refreshes the palate.

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FAQs for Vietnamese-style prawn and squid skewers

• Can I use frozen seafood? Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before marinating for best results.
• How spicy is this recipe? Mild to medium, depending on the amount of chillies used. Adjust to your preference.
• Can this be cooked on a barbecue? Absolutely, it works well over a hot grill or barbecue.
• What alternatives are there for fish sauce? Light soy sauce or a mix of soy and lime juice can work in a pinch.
• Is the dipping sauce gluten-free? Yes, if using gluten-free fish sauce, it is suitable for gluten-free diets.

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Nutri-score Health Check

This recipe scores a Nutri-Score A, highlighting lean protein from seafood and fresh ingredients with minimal added fats or sugars.

Positive Factors

• Seafood (prawns and squid) provides high-quality lean protein and omega-3 fats.
• Fresh herbs and lime juice enhance flavour with virtually no calories.
• Minimal added oil and sugars keep the recipe light and healthy.

Negative Factors

• Mayonnaise and sriracha add fats and sugars; use moderately if concerned.

This Nutri-Score is automatically calculated and is a guide towards balanced eating.