Variations on this marinade are used throughout Southeast Asia, especially with seafood, pork and beef. Plus: More Grilling Recipes and Tips
How to Make It
Step 1
In a food processor, combine the garlic, chiles, lemongrass, shallot and ginger and process to a paste. Scrape the paste into a bowl and stir in the fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, cilantro, coriander and pepper.
Step 2
Light a grill. Coat the shrimp with 2/3 cup of the marinade and let sit for 15 minutes. Thread the shrimp onto skewers and cook over a hot fire for about 2 minutes per side, using the remaining marinade for basting.
Notes
Fish sauce, which is made from pickled anchovies, is available at Asian markets and specialty shops. In a pinch, you could substitute soy sauce.
Suggested Pairing
The briny shrimp would benefit from the accent of a crisp white, but the zing of the marinade narrows the choice to a white with assertiveness as well. Top pick? An Oregon Pinot Gris.