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Peel-and-Eat Hot Pepper Prawns

This vibrant peel-and-eat hot pepper prawns dish is an aromatic seafood experience that brings a touch of Caribbean-inspired heat to your table. Classified as a high-protein option, the large prawns are gently poached in a fragrant broth infused with fiery Scotch bonnet chillies, fresh thyme and earthy allspice. This cooking method ensures the shellfish remains incredibly succulent while absorbing the complex, savoury notes of the aromatics.

Perfect as a relaxed starter or a light main course, these prawns are designed for social dining. Serving them in their shells helps to retain maximum moisture and depth of flavour, providing a tactile and engaging meal for your guests. Pair them with a cooling dip or a crisp green salad for a balanced, nutritious lunch that is as healthy as it is satisfying.

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Ingredients for Peel-and-Eat Hot Pepper Prawns

  • 475ml water

  • 4 Scotch bonnet chillies or habanero chillies, halved

  • 3 spring onions, coarsely chopped

  • 3 large fresh thyme sprigs

  • 3 garlic cloves, peeled, crushed

  • 2 tablespoons salt

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons whole allspice

  • 450g uncooked large prawns, unpeeled

How to make Peel-and-Eat Hot Pepper Prawns

Combine water, Scotch bonnet or habanero chillies, spring onions, thyme, crushed garlic, salt, bay leaf, and allspice in heavy large saucepan. Bring to boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 10 minutes to blend flavours. Add prawns and bring to boil. Remove pan from heat; let stand until cooked through, about 20 minutes. Drain, discarding liquid. Transfer prawns to bowl and serve warm or at room temperature, allowing diners to peel their own prawns.

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.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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