Description of this recipe: This recipe takes the classic prawn cocktail and elevates it to a delicious, handheld experience. Forget the traditional glass; we’re serving this spiced prawn mixture in soft, flavorful sub rolls with crisp lettuce and refreshing cucumber. It’s a perfect light lunch, a delightful party appetizer, or even a satisfying picnic treat.
Why you will love this recipe: This recipe is quick, easy, and full of flavor! The combination of creamy mayonnaise, sweet mango chutney, and warm curry powder creates a unique and addictive sauce that perfectly complements the succulent prawns. The soft sub rolls provide a comforting base, while the lettuce and cucumber add a refreshing crunch. It’s a textural and flavor explosion in every bite! Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover cooked prawns or a perfect excuse to buy some fresh ones. It’s elegant enough to impress but simple enough to throw together on a busy weeknight.
Introduction
The prawn cocktail. It’s a culinary staple that evokes memories of celebratory dinners, festive buffets, and perhaps a touch of retro charm. But let’s be honest, sometimes it feels a little… dated. This recipe is a playful and modern reinvention of that classic, transforming it into something exciting and effortlessly delicious. We’re taking those familiar flavors – the creamy sauce, the succulent prawns, the refreshing acidity – and packaging them in a delightful, handheld format: the Spiced Prawn Cocktail Sub.
This isn’t just about slapping some prawns on a roll. It’s about crafting a balanced and flavorful experience. The mango chutney adds a sweetness that complements the curry powder’s warmth, creating a complex and intriguing sauce. The lettuce and cucumber provide a crisp and cooling contrast to the richness of the prawns and mayonnaise. And the soft sub rolls? They’re the perfect vessel for this delicious mixture, ensuring every bite is satisfying and flavorful.
Think of this recipe as a gateway drug to culinary creativity. Once you master the basic formula, you can experiment with different spices, herbs, and vegetables to create your own unique version of the Spiced Prawn Cocktail Sub. Try adding a pinch of chili flakes for a little heat, some chopped cilantro for a fresh, herbaceous note, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless!
This recipe is also incredibly versatile. It can be scaled up or down to suit your needs, making it perfect for everything from a quick lunch for one to a crowd-pleasing appetizer for a party. It’s also a great make-ahead option. The prawn mixture can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the subs. Just be sure to keep the lettuce and cucumber separate to prevent them from becoming soggy.
So, ditch the traditional glass and embrace this fun and flavorful update on a classic. The Spiced Prawn Cocktail Sub is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone who tries it!
Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp mango chutney
- ¼ tsp mild curry powder
- Squeeze of lemon or lime juice (about ½ teaspoon)
- 150g cooked North Atlantic prawns, peeled and deveined
- 6 small sub rolls, soft and fresh
- 1 small Little Gem lettuce, leaves picked and washed
- Small chunk of cucumber (approximately 4 inches), thinly sliced
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Spiced Prawn Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mango chutney, and curry powder. Whisk together until smooth and creamy. The mango chutney can vary in texture and sweetness, so taste the mixture and adjust accordingly. If it’s too sweet, add a touch more lemon or lime juice. If it needs a little more depth, add a pinch of salt. Remember, you want a balanced flavor profile that is both sweet, savory, and slightly tangy.
Step 2: Add the Prawns and Chill: Gently stir in the cooked prawns into the mayonnaise mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the prawns tough. Once the prawns are incorporated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and the prawns to firm up slightly, resulting in a more flavorful and satisfying filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Sub Rolls: While the prawn mixture is chilling, prepare the sub rolls. Using a serrated knife, carefully split each roll across the top, creating a hinged opening. Avoid cutting all the way through the roll, as you want to keep the bottom intact. This will prevent the filling from spilling out. If your sub rolls are a little dry, you can lightly brush the inside with a little olive oil or mayonnaise before adding the lettuce and cucumber.
Step 4: Assemble the Subs: Line the inside of each sub roll with a crisp lettuce leaf or two, depending on the size of the leaves. The lettuce acts as a barrier, preventing the bread from becoming soggy from the prawn mixture. Next, arrange a few slices of thinly sliced cucumber on top of the lettuce. The cucumber adds a refreshing crunch and a cool contrast to the richness of the prawn filling.
Step 5: Fill and Serve: Spoon the chilled spiced prawn mixture generously into each sub roll, distributing it evenly. Don’t be afraid to pack it in! Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures. A little extra squeeze of lemon or lime juice over the filling just before serving can add an extra burst of freshness.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Lunch: Serve as a light and satisfying lunch with a side of potato chips, a simple salad, or some fresh fruit.
- Appetizer: Cut the subs into smaller portions and serve as a delicious and elegant appetizer for a party or gathering.
- Picnic: Pack the subs in a container and enjoy them on a picnic with friends and family.
- Pairing: These subs pair well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, or a light and refreshing beer, such as a pale ale or lager.
Tips:
- Prawn Quality: Use the best quality cooked prawns you can find. Fresh, sustainably sourced prawns will always taste better.
- Mango Chutney: Experiment with different varieties of mango chutney to find your favorite flavor. Some chutneys are spicier than others, so adjust the amount of curry powder accordingly.
- Curry Powder: Use a mild curry powder to avoid overpowering the other flavors. You can also use a Madras curry powder for a slightly spicier kick.
- Sub Roll Selection: Choose soft, fresh sub rolls that are not too dense. A light and airy roll will complement the delicate flavors of the prawn filling.
- Make Ahead: The prawn mixture can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just be sure to keep the lettuce and cucumber separate until you’re ready to assemble the subs.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the prawns with cooked chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian version.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
0 minutes (no cooking required)
Total Time:
15 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling time)
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
- Calories: Approximately 350-450 per sub
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g per sub
- Sodium: Approximately 400-600mg per sub
Conclusion
The Spiced Prawn Cocktail Sub is a fun and delicious twist on a classic dish. It’s easy to make, versatile, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a party appetizer, or a picnic treat, this recipe is a perfect choice. So, go ahead and give it a try! You won’t be disappointed. Embrace the flavors, enjoy the textures, and have fun creating your own unique version of this modern classic. Bon appétit!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The prawn mixture itself can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This actually allows the flavors to meld together and deepen, resulting in an even more delicious filling. However, it’s best to assemble the subs just before serving to prevent the lettuce and cucumber from becoming soggy.
Q2: I don’t have mango chutney. Can I substitute it with something else?
A: While mango chutney is the key to the unique flavor profile of this recipe, you can try substituting it with other sweet and fruity condiments. A good alternative would be apricot jam or pineapple chutney, diluted with a little lemon or lime juice to mimic the tangy flavor of the mango chutney. You might also want to add a pinch of brown sugar to balance the sweetness. Taste and adjust the other ingredients accordingly to achieve a similar flavor.
Q3: I’m allergic to shellfish. Can I make a vegetarian version of this recipe?
A: Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of the Spiced Prawn Cocktail Sub. Simply replace the prawns with cooked chickpeas, white beans, or even tofu. For the tofu, press it well to remove excess water and then cube it into small pieces. Toss the chickpeas, beans, or tofu with the spiced mayonnaise mixture as you would with the prawns. You might also consider adding some chopped celery or bell pepper for added crunch and flavor.
Q4: Can I use different types of bread for the subs?
A: Of course! While soft sub rolls are the traditional choice, you can experiment with other types of bread to suit your preferences. Ciabatta rolls, baguette slices, or even croissants would work well. Just be sure to choose a bread that is sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart. If you’re using a denser bread, you might want to toast it lightly to prevent it from becoming soggy.
Q5: How can I add more heat to this recipe?
A: If you enjoy a little spice, there are several ways to add more heat to the Spiced Prawn Cocktail Sub. You can add a pinch of chili flakes to the mayonnaise mixture, use a spicier curry powder (like Madras or Vindaloo), or incorporate a few drops of your favorite hot sauce. You could also add some finely chopped jalapeño peppers to the prawn mixture or garnish the subs with a few slices of pickled jalapeños. Start with a small amount and taste as you go, adding more until you reach your desired level of spiciness.
