Butter Poached Prawns with Kabocha Croquette and Yuzu Kosho Emulsion

Backstory: This dish highlights the sweet, succulent flavor of butter poached prawns, paired with the rich, nutty essence of kabocha squash. The yuzu kosho emulsion adds a spicy citrus twist, complemented by fresh shiso oil and vibrant pickled vegetables for a stunning presentation.

Ingredients

For the Butter Poached Prawns:

• 500g large prawns, peeled and deveined (preferably fresh)
• 200g unsalted butter
• 1 clove garlic, smashed
• A pinch of salt
• Black pepper, to taste

For the Kabocha Croquette:

• 300g kabocha squash, peeled and cubed
• 100g panko breadcrumbs
• 50g all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Oil for frying

For the Yuzu Kosho Emulsion:

• 1 tablespoon yuzu kosho (adjust for desired spiciness)
• 1 egg yolk
• 100ml vegetable oil
• Salt, to taste
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

For the Shiso Oil:

• 10 shiso leaves (or substitute with basil)
• 100ml neutral oil (like grapeseed or canola)
• Salt, to taste

For the Pickled Vegetables:

• 100g daikon radish, thinly sliced
• 100g red radish, thinly sliced
• 100ml rice vinegar
• 50g sugar
• 50ml water
• A pinch of salt

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Pickled Vegetables:

   • In a saucepan, combine rice vinegar, sugar, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer until sugar dissolves.
   • Pour the hot pickling liquid over the sliced daikon and red radish in a bowl. Let them pickle for at least 30 minutes, ideally refrigerating for an hour or two to deepen the flavor.

2. Make the Kabocha Croquette:

   • Steam or boil kabocha until tender. Drain and mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
   • Form the mashed kabocha into small patties. Dredge in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
   • Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the croquettes until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.

3. Prepare the Butter Poached Prawns:

   • In a saucepan, combine butter and garlic over low heat until butter melts. Do not let it boil.