south_indianMediumnon vegetariangluten freedairy freesoy free
Coconut Prawn Curry
RATING
4.4/5(135)
TASTE SCORE
9/10
Juicy prawns simmered in a creamy, fragrant coconut milk gravy, spiced with classic South Indian flavors. A comforting and quick curry that's perfect with steamed rice or appams.
SERVINGS
4
INGREDIENTS
For 4 servings
NUTRITION · PER SERVING
378
378
CALORIES · 1 CUP
Protein28g · 30%
Carbs15g · 16%
Fat24g · 57%
Fiber4g
Sodium1047mg
Potassium802mg
Phosphorus404mg
INSTRUCTIONS
5 steps. 25 minutes total.
5 STEPS
- 1
Step 1
- a.Marinate the prawns: In a mixing bowl, combine the prawns with 1/4 tsp of turmeric powder, 1/2 tsp of red chili powder, and 1/2 tsp of salt. Toss well to coat the prawns evenly. Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté aromatics and build the masala base: Heat coconut oil in a wide pan or kadai over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add the curry leaves and finely chopped onions. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5-6 minutes, until they break down and become mushy.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the spices and create the gravy: Add the remaining turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder to the pan. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw smell of the spices disappears. Pour in the thin coconut milk, tamarind paste, and the remaining salt. Mix well. Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cook the prawns and finish the curry: Gently add the marinated prawns to the simmering gravy. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the prawns turn pink and are just cooked through. Do not overcook. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the thick coconut milk. Warm the curry gently for 1-2 minutes. Make sure it does not come to a rolling boil to prevent curdling.
- 5
Garnish and serve the curry: Turn off the heat
- a.Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve the Coconut Prawn Curry hot with steamed rice, appam, or idiyappam.
PRO TIPS
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Do not overcook the prawns, as they will become rubbery and tough. They are done as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- 2For the best flavor, use fresh or freshly frozen prawns.
- 3After adding the thick coconut milk, keep the flame on low and do not boil the curry, as this can cause it to split.
- 4You can adjust the tanginess by increasing or decreasing the amount of tamarind paste.
- 5For a richer flavor, you can make your own coconut milk from fresh grated coconut.
RECIPE VARIATIONS
Adapt it for your goals.
quick
Quick
Use pre-peeled and deveined frozen prawns (thaw them first) and canned coconut milk to get this dish on the table in under 30 minutes.
healthyHealthy
For a lighter version, use light coconut milk and reduce the coconut oil to 1 tablespoon. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or green beans along with the tomatoes.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Reduce the red chili powder to 1/4 tsp and use the Kashmiri variety for color. Omit the slit green chilies to make it mild and appealing for children.
PAIRS WELL WITH
