Classic Peanut Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Intro

Peanut and shrimp are a proven combination, but this version keeps the shrimp clean and lightly charred rather than burying them in a heavy marinade. The classic peanut sauce is warmed and spooned over at the end so you get smoke, sweetness, and nuttiness in distinct layers.

Ingredients

• For the shrimp: 1 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, 1 tbsp neutral oil, 3/4 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp ground coriander
• For serving: 1/2 cup classic-peanut, 1 to 2 tbsp warm water, lime wedges, sliced cucumber, cilantro leaves

Instructions

1. Toss the shrimp with oil, salt, and coriander and thread onto skewers. Leave a little space between each shrimp so the heat can move around them and give you color instead of pooled steam.
2. Warm the peanut sauce gently with enough water to loosen it to a spoonable consistency. It should coat the back of a spoon, not sit in a tight lump or run off like broth.
3. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for 2 minutes on the first side, until the shells or flesh start to blush and the undersides take on a light char, then turn and cook 1 to 2 minutes more until just cooked through.
4. Transfer to a platter and spoon the warm peanut sauce over the top or serve it alongside for dipping. Finish with lime, cucumber, and cilantro to keep the plate bright.

Why This Works

Shrimp cook too quickly to benefit from a heavy sauce in the pan; finishing with warm peanut sauce keeps the char intact and the texture snappy.