Thai Lemongrass prawns marinade recipe for the BBQ. fragrant, citrusy, aromatic flavour profile. Marinate 15-30 min. Simple ingredients, incredible results.
By Bill Ohaire | Published: April 2026 | Last Updated: April 2026
Photo by Jonathan Borba on Pexels
Thai Lemongrass Prawns Marinade: Combine 2 stalks lemongrass (white part, finely sliced), 3 cloves garlic (minced), and more. Marinate 15-30 minutes. Grill until internal temp reaches 63°C (145°F) — opaque and pink.
This thai lemongrass marinade brings a fragrant, citrusy, aromatic flavour profile to your prawns. Bash the lemongrass with the back of a knife before slicing to release the oils. The coconut cream helps the marinade cling to the meat.
10 minutes
15-30 min
fragrant, citrusy, aromatic
king prawns (shell-on or peeled), tiger prawns
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| lemongrass (white part | 2 stalks |
| finely sliced) | As needed |
| garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| fish sauce | 2 tbsp |
| soy sauce | 1 tbsp |
| lime juice | 2 tbsp |
| brown sugar | 1 tbsp |
| fresh ginger (grated) | 1 tbsp |
| red chilli (sliced) | 1 |
| coconut cream | 2 tbsp |
| handful of coriander stems | 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.
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.
Get precise cooking times for any meat, cut, and method. Never over-cook or under-cook your BBQ again.
Open CalculatorHow long should I marinate prawns in thai lemongrass marinade?
Marinate prawns in thai lemongrass marinade for 15-30 minutes maximum. Any longer and the acid will start breaking down the delicate flesh.
Can I use thai lemongrass marinade on other meats?
Yes! Thai Lemongrass 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 thai lemongrass marinated prawns?
Grill thai lemongrass marinated prawns over high heat (220-250°C / 425-480°F). Cook until the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F) — opaque and pink.