How to Cook Prawns Thermidor
Prawns thermidor is a delectable seafood dish where jumbo shrimp or large prawns are stuffed with a creamy and flavorful mixture, topped with breadcrumbs and cheese, then baked to perfection.
Prep Time10 minutes mins
Cook Time45 minutes mins
Total Time55 minutes mins
Course: Seafood Recipe
Cuisine: Filipino
Keyword: baked prawns, prawn recipe, prawns thermidor
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 354kcal
Author: Manny
- 4 pcs large prawns
- 2 Tbsp. butter
- 2 Tbsp. flour
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. MSG
- 3/4 cup grated cheese
- 1 tsp. calamansi juice
- 2 Tbsp. bread crumbs
- 1 pc egg yolk
- 1 pc medium sized onion finely chopped
How to cook Prawns Thermidor:
Cook prawns in a little water over low fire for 15 minutes.
Cut shell at the back and scoop out meat. set aside the shell and chop meat coarsely.
Saute onion in butter and lower heat then add flour. Stir well.
Remove from heat and gradually add milk, egg yolk (slightly beaten), and half of the grated cheese.
Season with salt, MSG, and calamansi juice. Lastly, add the prawn meat.
Continue cooking until the mixture thickens.
Fill prawn shell with cooked mixture, top with bread crumbs and the remaining grated cheese.
Bake in a preheated oven (375 °F) and bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until topping becomes golden brown.
Cooking Tips:
Handle Prawns with Care for Maximum Flavor
To keep the prawns tender and juicy, avoid overcooking them during the initial boiling process—just a few minutes in simmering water is enough. Once cooked, carefully remove the meat from the shell to prevent breaking, as intact shells make for better presentation. Keeping the shells adds depth to the final dish, as they help retain moisture and enhance the overall flavor.
Master the Perfect Thermidor Sauce
Slowly adding milk to the butter-flour mixture while constantly stirring prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, creamy consistency. Removing the pan from heat before adding egg yolks avoids curdling, giving the sauce a velvety finish. A touch of calamansi juice cuts through the richness, balancing the flavors for a more refined taste.
Bake to Golden Perfection
Topping the stuffed prawns with breadcrumbs and cheese creates a crisp, golden crust that adds texture to every bite. Baking at the right temperature (375°F) ensures even cooking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Keeping an eye on the oven prevents over-browning, so the dish remains rich and creamy without drying out.
