When it comes to cleaning and prepping my prawns for the freezer I have a few products that I just can’t go without. I’m sure I will discover new tools and tips but for now, these are my go to items that I use every time.
Step 1: Light my Maison Berger
Ever since fishing in Ucluelet while pregnant, ridiculously morning sick plus sea sick and then cleaning fish in our condo, I have become very sensitive to smells. Of all the smells associated with fishing, cleaning prawns is by far the most mild. However, I still like to keep the house smelling fresh so that nothing lingers after it is all said and done. The Maison Berger is great for really evaporating any odours and leaving a nice scent. There are many scent options to choose from so pick one that you love.
Step 2: Cut The Shells
I used to use regular scissors but then a friend gifted me these Norpro Prawn Scissors and I love them. The curve on the blade lets you protect the integrity of the meat while adding efficiency. When done I just toss them in the dishwasher.
Step 3: Remove The Shell and The Vein
It is always a huge win for me when I get the vein and the shell at the same time. But when I cant I just use my handy little tool to grab the vein and pull. I can’t find the exact one that I bought several years ago but the important part is a pointy tip that you can easily lift the vein from the meat. This Shrimp Deveiner can be used instead of the scissors as well but I find scissors much more efficient.
Step 4: Vacuum Seal Your Catch
We started with the Anova Vacuum Sealer but recently upgraded to the Cabela’s Commercial Grade vacuum sealer. We found that with the amount we used the product it justified our upgrade. Make sure you date your packages and eat the oldest first. There is nothing worse than wasting your catch.
Step 5: Clean Up!
No matter how fresh the seafood, there will always be a lingering smell. I was very skeptical of these Rub-a-way stainless steel bars at first but they do work nicely for fish, garlic, and onion smells. I keep one in my kitchen and one on my boat.
Heartly Fishing 