Imaging a meal that brings spices, creamy coconut and juicy prawns into your home, a meal that is not only delicious, but which has thousands of years of history behind it. That is the delicious prawns curry! This curry hails from the coastal areas of India and is incorporated into Nadan cooking Malayalam cuisine rather dearly. It is as a staple with the spicy sauce and juicy prawn that is associated with functions such as Christmas and even the usual family gatherings. Here let’s understand why prawns curry is so special and provide a step-by-step guide on how you can create this delicacies at home.
What is Prawns Curry?
Prawns curry is a delicacy that includes fresh prawn pieces that are cooked covered in a masala-based gravy. It is commonly used in different preparations which is mostly used in South Indian preparations due to its strong taste. This curry features a blend of spices and ingredients that come together to create a mouth-watering meal. It is eaten with the accompaniment of rice, naan or any other kind of bread and therefore, can be considered appropriate for any meal.
Historical Importance and Relations to Culture
Prawns curry has its origin in the South Indian region especially in the state of Kerala which is regarded more or less as seafood paradise. As such, prawns curry is not only a food which is prepared and consumed in the state of Kerala but also a cultural legacy of the place. It is traditionally cooked on such occasions as celebrating certain achievements and on family gatherings to show case the spices and the cooker’s mastery. This is a reflection of its focus on the coastal civilization and the place of fish and other aquatic foods source in the diet of most people living close to the water sources.
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients:
• Prawns: This is the main one used to add the sweet and delicate taste to the curry. Prawns are relatively soft and can takeover the flavors from spices making it perfect for this dish.
• Spices: A mix of spices such as turmeric, coriander powder, and chili powder forms the base of the curry’s flavor. These spices bring out the flavor and hue of the dish.
• Coconut Milk: This ingredient makes the curry a little sweet and at the same time makes the gravy thick and creamy from the texture point of view.
Specialty Ingredients:
- Curry Leaves: These are used to enhance the aroma of the curry and add a unique flavor that’s characteristic of South Indian Malayalam cooking.
- Tamarind: Tamarind adds a tangy taste that complements the spices and coconut milk, giving the curry a well-rounded flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
Prawns are good source of proteins, very low in fat, and contain Vit B12, Iodine and Omega-3 fatty acids. They are friendly for anyone who wants to have a tasty meal without so many calories. This coconut milk though thick is loaded with good fat and is excellent for the heart. All these components make prawns curry healthy meal that is satisfactory to the palate.
Preparation
Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Preparation of Prawns:
- Start by cleaning the prawns. Remove the shells and devein them if needed. You can also remove the tails if you prefer.
- Marinate the prawns with a pinch of turmeric, little amount of salt and lemon juice. Allow them to stand for about fifteen minutes. This process allows the prawns to take in the flavours and become soft to chew when prepared.
- Cooking the Curry:
- Heat little oil in a pan and keep the flame to medium. Include chopped onions which are cooked until they are golden-brown color. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Next, chopped garlic, ginger and green chilly can be included. Saute for two or three minutes until the contents of the pan give out a good smell.
- Combine the spices which include turmeric powder, coriander powder and chili powder. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the oil is seen to decant off the spice mix. This step assists in the freeing of the aromatic chemicals of the spices.
- Add chopped tomatoes to the pan. Cook them until they become soft and form a thick paste.
- Add coconut milk and let the concoction come to a boil, but not overflowing, but rather a gentle boil. This will form the initial background of the curry that you are preparing.
- Place the marinated prawns to the pan. Fry for 5-7 minutes or even up to the point that they are still pinkish on the inside. Ensure not to over-fry them since they can turn rather hard.
- Finally, stir in a spoon of tamarind paste, and some fresh curry leaves. Season the meat with some salt after you are done with some of the above procedures. Allow the curry to cook for a few more minutes to infuse the flavours fully in the curry.
Cooking Tips:
- To avoid overcooking the prawns, keep an eye on them and cook just until they turn pink and are firm. Overcooking can make prawns rubbery and less enjoyable.
- For extra flavor, you can let the curry simmer on low heat for a bit longer. This allows the spices to fully blend and intensify.
Serving Suggestions
Accompaniments:
- Prawns curry pairs beautifully with steamed rice or biryani. The rice soaks up the flavorful gravy, making each bite delicious.
- Naan or other types of bread can also be served alongside the curry. They’re perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Garnishing Ideas:
- Garnish your prawns curry with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
- A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can add a zesty kick.
- For added texture and visual appeal, sprinkle some toasted coconut or sliced green chilies on top.
Prawns curry being an additional preparation of South Indian origin is indeed a treat to our taste buds. This is perfect whether you are cooking for your family or preparing for a party because the taste has depth and the meal is quite satisfying. Savor the fabulous Nadan cooking of Kalavara Youtube channel, the top cooking channel Malayalam and taste the goodness of prawns curry which is as hearty as it is succulent.
Have a good time cooking prawns curry and do not forget to tell us about it in the YouTube channel of Kalavara.