What is Prawn Head Butter? A Rich, Creamy Delicacy from Down Under

Prawn head butter is a unique ingredient that is gaining popularity among chefs and foodies. Often referred to as ‘red gold’ or ‘prawn ambrosia’ this decadent butter has a rich sweet and smokey flavor that is truly irresistible. But what exactly is prawn head butter and where does it come from? Let’s find out.

The Origins of Prawn Head Butter

Prawn head butter originated in Australia as a way to make use of the heads of sweet, plump Australian prawns or ‘shrimp’ as they are known in some parts of the world. The indigenous people of Australia were the first to discover the hidden treasure inside a prawn’s head – an orange, creamy paste with an incredible umami flavor.

By extracting this paste and combining it with butter, they created a luxurious compound butter that was prized for its uniqueness and depth of flavor. The indigenous people used prawn head butter to flavor meats seafood vegetables and breads during special ceremonies and feasts.

Over time, this special butter became popular with chefs across Australia who realized its potential to elevate dishes. Nowadays, prawn head butter is enjoyed by food lovers worldwide who appreciate its sweet, briny richness.

How Real Prawn Head Butter is Made

To make authentic prawn head butter, you need four key ingredients:

• Sweet Australian prawn heads
• High-quality butter
• Olive oil
• Spices and flavorings

The first step is to rinse the prawn heads well and pat them dry. Place them in a pan with olive oil and sauté until they turn bright orange and become aromatic. The prawn heads will release a sweet and smokey flavor as they caramelize.

Once cooled, pick out the meat from the heads. Reserve the heads and discard the shells. Place the heads in a food processor and puree into a smooth, bright orange paste.

In a mixing bowl, combine the head puree with softened butter and any extra flavorings like garlic, lemon zest or spices. Mix well until fully incorporated.

Scoop the compound butter into a container, roll into a log shape and chill completely before using. Properly stored prawn head butter will keep for 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator or up to 6 months in the freezer.

The Unique Flavor and Texture

So what does prawn head butter actually taste like? Well, the flavor is rich, sweet and smokey with lovely briny undertones from the prawns. When spread on bread or used to top a steak, that unmistakable prawn flavor really shines through.

The texture is ultra creamy and luxurious, thanks to the pureed prawn heads and high butter content. It melts seamlessly into any dish, imparting moisture and richness. The orange color is natural and comes from carotenoids in the prawn heads.

Aficionados describe the experience of tasting prawn head butter as sweet, briny and indulgent. There are notes of roasted shellfish, brown butter and even hazelnut. The umami level is off the charts, making it highly addictive!

How Chefs Use Prawn Head Butter

Creative chefs have many uses for prawn head butter beyond just spreading it on bread. Here are some of the most popular ways it is used:

• compound butter for grilled seafood like shrimp, fish and lobster

• flavor booster for risotto and pasta dishes

• delicious topping for steak and lamb

• mix into mashed potatoes for extra richness

• swirl into seafood soups and chowders

• use as a filling for savory profiteroles

• mix with herbs as a crab cake binder

• fold into scrambled eggs or omelets

• spread on crusty bread for next-level garlic bread

• mix into popcorn with spices for gourmet movie night

The options are endless! Prawn head butter adds incredible depth of flavor and richness to anything it touches.

Health Benefits of Prawn Head Butter

While prawn head butter is a high-fat, high-calorie ingredient, it does provide some noteworthy health benefits, including:

• High in protein – the pureed prawn heads provide a good protein boost

• Source of omega-3 fatty acids – helps lower inflammation

• Contains antioxidants like astaxanthin – protects cells from damage

• Provides vitamins and minerals like selenium, zinc, copper – supports immune function

• No carbs or sugar unlike regular butter

When enjoyed in moderation, the nutrients in prawn head butter can be an addition to an overall healthy diet. The rich flavor means you use less butter too!

Where to Buy Prawn Head Butter

Prawn head butter can be challenging to find outside of Australia. Your best bet is to check with local high-end fish markets and specialty food stores to see if they stock it fresh or frozen.

Some artisanal butter producers are now offering prawn head butter for online mail order worldwide. Just search for terms like ‘prawn head’, ‘shrimp head’ or ‘crustacean compound butter’ to find a provider that ships to your region.

Expect to pay a premium for realAustralian prawn head butter since it is handcrafted in small batches. Prices typically range from $15-$30 for an 8oz log. International shipping costs will apply as well.

How to Make Your Own Prawn Head Butter at Home

While not exactly the same as true Australian prawn head butter, you can make a tasty version at home with a few simple ingredients:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh prawn shells and heads
• 8 oz unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested
• 1⁄4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse prawn heads and shells well. Pick out any meat and set aside.

2. Sauté shells in olive oil until bright orange. Cool completely.

3. Process shells in a food processor until a thick paste forms.

4. Mix shell paste with soft butter, garlic, lemon zest and seasonings.

5. Scoop into a container to chill or form into a log.

6. Store wrapped tightly for up to 2 weeks refrigerated.

While not exactly the same, homemade prawn head butter can add fabulous flavor to seafood, veggies, eggs and so much more. Get creative with spices and let the prawn flavor shine!

Prawn Head Butter – An Indulgent Treat for Seafood Lovers

Prawn head butter is truly a unique luxury ingredient that belongs in every serious seafood lover’s pantry. With its irresistible rich, sweet and smokey flavor, prawn head butter can level up home cooking as well as restaurant cuisine.

Sourcing authentic Australian prawn head butter may take some effort, but many chefs feel it’s well worth it. The next time you want to add sheer decadence to a special meal, consider making prawn head butter part of the culinary experience. Just a small dollop is sure to delight tastebuds!