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Shrimp on the Barbie and Its Beginnings

The best ingredients and recipe secrets for shrimp on the barbie are found here, at City Fish Market. Just for fun, we will also delve into the origin story of this Australian delight, as well as other big moments in its history. We have a grasp on how a commercial pursuit can end up being an epic launch. After all, we began perfecting the art of seafood freshness in 1930, and our ongoing success is on display behind retail counters every day. Below, find out how the phrase “shrimp on the barbie” got its start as well as tips for making the Aussie dish masterfully.

Grilled shrimp recipe in Wethersfield, CT and New Britain, CT. Crocodile Dundee’s Epic Advertisement

“Shrimp on the barbie” got its beginnings through ads. A commission to boost tourism in Australia produced television commercials starring Paul Hogan, which started in 1984. Before being known as Crocodile Dundee (1986), Mr. Hogan was famous for inviting television audiences in the U.S. and U.K. to visit Australia, saying, “I’ll slip an extra shrimp on the barbie for you.” (The ads’ actual slogan was, “Come and say G’day.”) The twist on the shrimp-centric phrase is that in Australia, the word “prawn” is commonly used for this delectable seafood. As for the term “barbie,” it is authentic Australian slang for BBQ.

The Shrimp on the Barbie is a 1990 movie that starred Cheech Marin and capitalized on the popularity of the phrase. Even greater notoriety may have come through Jim Carrey’s Dumb and Dumber character, Lloyd Christmas.

Tips for Plump, Juicy Shrimp on the Barbie

Of course, City Fish Market is the place to find the freshest shrimp in all sizes. Before placing the shrimp on the barbie, try the following procedures to ensure juicy, delicious results. The following are some of the secrets for shrimp on the barbie, though this recipe is called Grilled Shrimp with Garlic and Lemon.

Question: How can you keep the shrimp juicy, plump and brown on the grill?

Answer: Toss the shrimp with salt, sugar, and baking soda. Steps follow:

  1. Peel the shrimp (size large or 15 to 20 shrimp per pound).
  2. Add a bit of salt, sugar, and baking soda
  3. Snugly thread the shrimp on a skewer
  4. Pat the shrimp dry (moisture is the enemy of browning)
  5. Brush with a bit of olive oil
  6. Toss onto a ripping-hot grill
  7. Cook until nicely browned on the exterior (4 to 5 minutes per side)
  8. Carefully remove skewers from the shrimp and toss them in a garlic-oil-lemon mixture

Fresh shrimp and seafood in Wethersfield, CT and Rocky Hill, CT.Get Fresh Shrimp for the Barbie at City Fish Market

City Fish Market is the best place to visit when you are planning to cook shrimp on the barbie or any other terrific shrimp recipes. Come and see for yourself at 884 Silas Deane Hwy, Wethersfield, CT 06109. Many other seafood selections are perfect for the barbecue grill. Select from live Maine lobster, fresh tuna, red snapper, salmon, halibut, mahi-mahi, scallops, oysters, octopus, and more. 

Visit City Fish Market today or, for delivery, call or fill out our online form.