A foolproof way to create the perfect Christmas lunch is to stick to the basics. While experimenting in the kitchen can result in eye-opening creations, the arguably busiest cooking day of the year is not the time for it. Fortunately, few people would turn down a plate of fresh sautéed Tassal Aussie tiger prawns, punched up with a garlic lemon butter sauce, caramelised with chilli flakes and served on a bed of lemon halves.
When it comes to traditional Aussie meals at Christmas time, who can look past the humble prawn. Sautéed, pan-fried, charred or peeled and served with a wedge of lemon, they’re the centre of many a festive spread and cherished memory.
For Time Out Sydney’s Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure, one particular meal stands out, “About a decade ago, around Christmas time, my mum took me to Port Douglas for a girls' holiday. I still remember buying a kilo of fresh Aussie tiger prawns from the local markets, as well as soft bread rolls, mayo, avocado, lemon, tomato and lettuce, and taking it all back to our accommodation. We sat in the sunshine by the pool, drinking ice-cold Coronas and eating fresh prawn rolls all afternoon. It was glorious and is one of my happiest memories.” Hear, hear.
No matter how you spend Christmas, there’s a prawn recipe to suit every style of celebration. Here’s our round-up of the very best.
