LaManna cooked prawns
Iceberg lettuce, chopped
Avocado, diced
Lime juiced
Extra virgin olive oil
Baby cucumbers
Chervil, picked
Chives, chopped
Cayenne pepper
Kewpie mayo
Heinz tomato ketchup
Worcestershire sauce
Horseradish
Frank’s Hot Sauce
Salt
1 Packet
1/4
1/2
1/2
1 tbsp
1/2 Punnet
1/2 Bunch
1/4 Bunch
Pinch
175g
20g
10g
10g
A dash
Pinch
Method
- For the Marie Rose sauce, combine all ingredients, store in the fridge until ready to use.
- Dress the diced avocado with extra virgin olive oil and lime juice.
- Place the shredded iceberg at the bottom of the martini glass, followed by the diced avocado.
- Place three cucumber spears on one side of the martini glass, and hook five prawns around the remaining rim of the glass.
- Spoon over 2-3 tablespoons of the marie rose on top of the avocado.
- Garnish with chervil, chives and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
How to Make the Perfect Marie Rose Sauce
The secret behind making a lick-your-fingers Marie Rose sauce is the right balance of ingredients. A smooth and moreish prawn cocktail sauce is built on a rich base of whole-egg mayonnaise (no light versions please!), combined with ketchup for sweetness, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a dash of Worcestershire sauce to add depth. Yes, you can buy Marie Rose sauce in a jar, but nothing beats a freshly made homemade sauce that comes together in less than five minutes.
At LaManna, we stock premium whole-egg mayonnaise and pantry condiments so you can create the tastiest Marie Rose sauce for your prawn cocktail.
Tips for Serving Prawn Cocktail
- Use classic cocktail glasses or small serving bowls for individual portions. Layer a base of crisp, finely shredded iceberg lettuce to add some crunch.
- Arrange a generous serving of prawns and drizzle a few spoonfuls of the Marie Rose sauce over the top.
- Dust lightly with smoked paprika, snipped chives and a wedge of lemon on the rim.
- Make the sauce ahead of time and keep it covered in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to 24 hours.
Pick up fresh, king prawns from LaManna’s seafood section and the sauce ingredients in-store. If you need help, you’ll find an expert ready to answer your questions.
FAQs
What is a Marie Rose sauce?
A classic, British prawn cocktail sauce made from mayonnaise, ketchup, lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce. It’s creamy, tangy and fresh in flavour. Choose the traditional version or add your own touches, like a pinch of cayenne pepper. Master the base first and then experiment with different flavours.
Can I make the prawn cocktail ahead of time?
Yes, but there are a few things to note. The Marie Rose sauce can be prepared up to 24 hours before and stored in the fridge. The prawns can also be cooked and chilled ahead of time. Assemble the dish an hour max before serving because the lettuce will turn soggy once you add the sauce.
What prawns are best for a prawn cocktail?
Definitely fresh, king prawns! They are large, meaty in texture and hold the Marie Rose sauce the best. Prawns that are already cooked and peeled (like those you’ll find in-store at LaManna’s deli counter) are the most convenient option for a fuss-free prawn cocktail. If you’re preparing your own prawns, poach or pan-fry briefly and chill before assembling and serving.
What should I serve with a prawn cocktail?
A prawn cocktail is an appetiser, so the dish that follows it should complement its flavours. Serve a light pasta, a tender and juicy roast or grilled fish after the entrée. Give plenty of brown bread and butter at the table so guests can soak up any remaining Marie Rose sauce. As for drinks, a chilled glass of white wine or champagne adds the final elegant touch!
