Spicy Garlic Prawns (Gambas al Pil Pil)
Originating from the coastal regions of Spain, Gambas al Pil Pil is a vibrant and spicy seafood dish that's perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors. This family recipe has been passed down through generations, showcasing the simplicity and richness of Spanish cuisine. The succulent prawns are infused with the aromatic essence of garlic and the fiery kick of chili peppers, making it a delightful dish to serve as a tapas appetizer or a main course. Perfectly paired with crusty bread, this dish is sure to awaken your taste buds and add a touch of warmth to any meal.
1
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Raw fresh prawns
200 grams (Peeled and deveined)
Crushed garlic powder
1 teaspoon (No preparation needed)
Garlic cloves
2-3 cloves (Peeled and sliced)
Fresh parsley
1 pinch (Chopped)
Olive oil
Enough to nearly cover prawns (No preparation needed)
Chili peppers
2 (Sliced or chopped)
Red pepper powder
1 pinch (No preparation needed)
Salt
1 teaspoon (No preparation needed)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2
In a medium oven-safe dish, layer the peeled and deveined prawns evenly on the bottom.
3
Add the sliced garlic cloves on top of the prawns.
4
Sprinkle the crushed garlic powder, salt, and red pepper powder over the prawns.
5
Add the sliced chili peppers and a pinch of chopped parsley for freshness.
6
Drizzle generous amounts of olive oil over the prawns, ensuring they are nearly covered in oil to prevent drying out.
7
Using a spoon or your hands, gently mix everything together to ensure the prawns are well-coated in the spices and oil.
8
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the prawns are pink and cooked through.
9
Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a minute, then serve hot—ideally with crusty bread to soak up the delicious oil.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gambas al Pil Pil?
Gambas al Pil Pil is a vibrant and spicy Spanish seafood dish consisting of prawns infused with garlic and chili peppers.
Where does this dish originate?
This dish originates from the coastal regions of Spain.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed for 1 serving.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
You should preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
How long do the prawns need to bake?
The prawns should be baked for approximately 10 to 12 minutes.
What type of prawns are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 200 grams of raw fresh prawns.
Should the prawns be peeled before cooking?
Yes, the prawns should be peeled and deveined before starting the recipe.
What kind of oil is best for Gambas al Pil Pil?
Generous amounts of olive oil are used to coat the prawns and create the sauce.
How many garlic cloves are required?
You will need 2 to 3 cloves of garlic, peeled and sliced.
Does this recipe use garlic powder?
Yes, it uses one teaspoon of crushed garlic powder in addition to fresh garlic.
What gives the dish its spicy kick?
The spice comes from two sliced chili peppers and a pinch of red pepper powder.
Is fresh parsley used in this dish?
Yes, a pinch of chopped fresh parsley is added for freshness.
How much salt should I add?
The recipe calls for one teaspoon of salt.
How much red pepper powder is needed?
Only one pinch of red pepper powder is required.
Why is so much olive oil used?
The oil prevents the prawns from drying out and provides a flavorful base for dipping bread.
Should I mix the ingredients before putting them in the oven?
Yes, you should gently mix the prawns with the spices and oil to ensure they are well-coated.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
It is best served hot, ideally with crusty bread to soak up the seasoned oil.
Can this be served as a main course?
Yes, it can be served as either a tapas appetizer or a main course.
How do I know when the prawns are finished cooking?
The prawns are done when they turn pink and are cooked all the way through.
Should I let the dish rest after taking it out of the oven?
Yes, let the dish rest for one minute before serving.
What is the preparation for the chili peppers?
The chili peppers should be sliced or chopped before being added to the dish.
What kind of dish should I use for baking?
You should use a medium oven-safe dish.
Can I use frozen prawns?
While the recipe specifies raw fresh prawns, you can use frozen ones as long as they are completely thawed, peeled, and deveined.
Is this a traditional family recipe?
Yes, it is a family recipe passed down through generations in Spain.
What is the first step of the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients in total.
What is the preparation for the garlic powder?
No preparation is needed for the crushed garlic powder.
Are the garlic cloves crushed or sliced?
The fresh garlic cloves should be peeled and sliced.
What flavor profile does this dish have?
The dish features bold, vibrant, and spicy flavors with heavy aromatic notes of garlic.
Should the oil cover the prawns entirely?
The olive oil should nearly cover the prawns to ensure they stay succulent.