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Grilled Prawns with Spicy Tamarind Dipping Sauce

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

These grilled prawns with spicy tamarind dipping sauce offer a vibrant explosion of Southeast Asian flavours, balancing the tartness of tamarind with a gentle heat from red pepper flakes. Using jumbo prawns ensures a meaty, satisfying texture that stands up well to the high heat of the grill. This dish is naturally light, making it a sophisticated choice for an outdoor summer lunch or an impressive dinner party appetiser.

As a diabetes-friendly recipe, this dish focuses on lean protein and bold aromatics rather than heavy fats or excessive sugars. The sauce provides a savoury depth that perfectly complements the charred sweetness of the seafood. Serve these skewers alongside a crisp green salad or some steamed pak choi for a nutritious, low-carbohydrate meal that is as healthy as it is delicious.

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Ingredients for Grilled Prawns with Spicy Tamarind Dipping Sauce

  • 24 jumbo prawns, shelled and deveined

  • 8 wooden skewers, soaked in water 20 minutes

  • 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped

  • 60ml tamarind paste (found in Asian markets)

  • 1 tablespoon canola oil

  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce

  • 1-2 tablespoons red pepper flakes

  • 1 tablespoon sugar

How to make Grilled Prawns with Spicy Tamarind Dipping Sauce

Heat grill on high. Thread 3 prawns on each skewer; season with salt and pepper. Dipping sauce: Mix remaining ingredients in a bowl. Grill prawns until cooked through, about 3 minutes per side. Serve with dipping sauce on the side.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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