Busara-Style Prawns: Adriatic Excellence on Your Plate

A robust and flavorful prawn stew in a spicy tomato sauce, an iconic recipe from the Adriatic maritime tradition.
January 8, 2026 by
Busara-Style Prawns: Adriatic Excellence on Your Plate
LAPA - finest italian food GmbH, Laura Teodorescu

Succulent prawns simmered in a vibrant, spicy tomato sauce — an iconic recipe born on the shores of the Adriatic. The dish that turns a simple dinner service into an unforgettable experience.

📍 Region: Veneto / Friuli Venezia Giulia | ⏱️ Prep time: 15 minutes | 🔥 Cook time: 20 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 4 | 📊 Difficulty: Easy

🏛️ The Story

A treasured recipe from the Upper Adriatic fishermen, shaped by centuries of Istrian and Dalmatian culinary heritage. Every bite carries the soul of the Mediterranean.

đź›’ Ingredients

  • 800 g Argentine Peeled Prawns PD 16/20 (net weight)
  • 400 g Canned peeled tomatoes
  • 2 cloves Fresh garlic
  • 1 small Fresh chili pepper
  • 20 g Fresh parsley
  • 100 ml Dry white wine
  • 60 ml Extra virgin olive oil
  • 5 g Fine salt
  • 1 g Freshly ground black pepper

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Step 1: Thaw the Argentine Prawns following the manufacturer's instructions. Drain thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels to remove all excess moisture.
  2. Step 2: Finely chop the garlic and parsley. Slice the chili pepper into thin rounds, removing the seeds for a milder heat if preferred.
  3. Step 3: In a large, deep pan (or sauté pan), heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and chili. Sauté gently for about 2 minutes, taking care not to burn the garlic.
  4. Step 4: Add the dried prawns to the pan. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until they begin to turn pink.
  5. Step 5: Deglaze with white wine, raising the heat slightly. Let the alcohol evaporate completely over 2–3 minutes, scraping the pan bottom to release the fond.
  6. Step 6: Add the peeled tomatoes, crushing them coarsely by hand or with a fork. Season with salt and black pepper.
  7. Step 7: Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Partially cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The prawns should be tender and the sauce lightly thickened. Do not overcook — timing is everything.
  8. Step 8: Just before serving, fold the fresh chopped parsley into the sauce. Mix well.
  9. Step 9: Serve the Busara-Style Prawns immediately, piping hot, with crusty artisan bread for mopping up the sauce or alongside creamy polenta.

đź’ˇ Chef's Tips

  • Ensure the prawns are perfectly drained and dried before cooking — this is the secret to a proper sear and a more concentrated, flavorful sauce.
  • Never overcook the prawns: they turn rubbery in seconds. The timing above delivers perfectly tender, succulent results every time.
  • Adjust the heat to your guests' preference: more or less chili, or simply remove the seeds for a gentler warmth.

🛍️ Order GAMBERO ARGENTINA PLEOTICUS MUELLERI SGUSC PD 16/20 GLASS 20% CONF 1KG 10KG CRT DSD

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