By Bill Ohaire | Published: April 2026 | Last Updated: April 2026
Quick Answer
Honey Mustard Prawns Marinade: Combine 3 tbsp wholegrain mustard, 3 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp olive oil, and more. Marinate 15-30 minutes. Grill until internal temp reaches 63°C (145°F) — opaque and pink.
About This Marinade
This honey mustard marinade brings a sweet, tangy, with a mustard kick flavour profile to your prawns. The honey caramelises beautifully on the BBQ. Watch for burning on high heat.
Flavour Profile
sweet, tangy, with a mustard kick
Best Cuts
king prawns (shell-on or peeled), tiger prawns
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
| wholegrain mustard | 3 tbsp |
| honey | 3 tbsp |
| olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| apple cider vinegar | 2 tbsp |
| garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| dried thyme | 1 tsp |
| salt and pepper | As needed |
Prawns cook fast and absorb flavour fast. NEVER marinate prawns longer than 30 minutes in acidic marinades — the acid will start "cooking" them and they'll turn rubbery.
How to Make Honey Mustard Prawns Marinade
- Combine: Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl or ziplock bag until well combined.
- Prep the prawns: Pat the prawns dry with paper towel. Peel and devein if desired, or leave shell on for extra flavour.
- Marinate: Add the prawns to the marinade, making sure every piece is well coated. Refrigerate for 15-30 minutes (no longer!).
- Bring to temp: Remove from the fridge 20-30 minutes before cooking to take the chill off.
- BBQ: Shake off excess marinade and grill over high heat (220-250°C / 425-480°F) until the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F) — opaque and pink.
- Rest: Let the prawns rest for 1-2 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Honey Mustard Prawns
- Don't skip the rest — resting allows the juices to redistribute for a juicier result.
- Watch the clock — prawns go from perfect to rubbery in seconds. Pull them off the moment they turn pink and opaque.
- Reserve some marinade — set aside a portion before adding raw meat to use as a finishing sauce or baste.
- Watch for burning — the sugar in this marinade caramelises quickly. Use medium-high heat and watch closely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Marinating too long in acid — more than 30 minutes will start chemically "cooking" the prawns, making them mushy.
- Grilling straight from the fridge — cold meat doesn't cook evenly. Let it come to room temperature first.
- Using the same marinade as a sauce — never reuse marinade that has touched raw meat. Always reserve a clean portion first.
- Overcrowding the BBQ — give each piece space so it sears rather than steams.
Best Prawns Cuts for Honey Mustard Marinade
The best cuts of prawns for this marinade are: king prawns (shell-on or peeled), tiger prawns.
King prawns and tiger prawns are ideal — they're large enough to handle on the BBQ and have a sweet, firm flesh that stands up to bold flavours.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I marinate prawns in honey mustard marinade?
Marinate prawns in honey mustard marinade for 15-30 minutes maximum. Any longer and the acid will start breaking down the delicate flesh.
Can I use honey mustard marinade on other meats?
Yes! Honey Mustard marinade works well on chicken and beef too. Adjust the marinating time based on the protein — delicate proteins need less time.
Should I marinate prawns in the fridge or at room temperature?
Always marinate in the fridge for food safety. Bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature. Take the meat out 20-30 minutes before cooking to take the chill off for more even cooking.
What temperature should I BBQ honey mustard marinated prawns?
Grill honey mustard marinated prawns over high heat (220-250°C / 425-480°F). Cook until the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F) — opaque and pink.
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Sources & References
3
Serious Eats
Kenji Lopez-Alt's science of grilling fish without sticking.
Reference