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Type:

Non-Veg

Serves:

2 to 3

Prep. Time:

2 minutes

Cooking Time:

8 - 10 minutes

Prawns Masala

Prawn Masala is a flavorful Indian seafood dish made with succulent prawns simmered in a spiced onion-tomato gravy. The dish combines the sweetness of fresh prawns with the heat of red chili, warmth of garam masala, and the earthiness of coriander and turmeric. Aromatic curry leaves, ginger, garlic, and whole spices like cinnamon or fennel add depth, while a touch of lemon and fresh coriander brings brightness at the end.

Ingredients:

Marination

  • 250 g cleaned prawns

  • 1 tsp ginger–garlic paste

  • 1 tsp chili powder

  • 2 tsp coriander powder

  • ½ tsp turmeric powder

  • ½ tsp garam masala powder

  • 1 tsp black pepper powder

  • Salt to taste



Masala Base

  • 3 tbsp oil

  • 1 piece cinnamon, 1 tsp fennel seeds, 2 cardamom (optional)

  • 1 large onion, finely chopped

  • 1 slit green chili, few curry leaves

  • 1 tsp ginger–garlic paste

  • 1 tsp chili powder

  • 1 tsp coriander powder

  • ½ tsp turmeric

  • ½ tsp garam masala

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped

  • Salt to taste

  • ~½ cup water as needed

Steps:

1. Marinate the prawns: Mix prawns with ginger–garlic paste, chili powder, coriander powder, turmeric, garam masala, black pepper, and salt. Let them rest for 10–15 minutes.


2. Cook the prawns: Heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan. Add the marinated prawns and sauté until they turn pink and slightly curled (about 4–5 minutes). Remove and set aside.


3. Make the masala base:

  • In the same pan, add 1 tbsp oil if needed.

  • Fry whole spices (cinnamon, fennel, cardamom) until fragrant.

  • Add onions, green chili, and curry leaves. Sauté until golden brown.

  • Stir in 1 tsp ginger–garlic paste, cook for a minute.

  • Add powdered spices (chili powder, coriander powder, turmeric, garam masala, pepper) and sauté briefly.


4. Add tomatoes: Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and oil begins to separate. Splash in a little water to make a thick gravy.


5. Combine prawns and masala: Add the cooked prawns back into the pan. Mix well with the masala. Cook for 5 more minutes, just enough for the flavors to blend.


6. Finish and serve: Sprinkle fresh coriander leaves, and a squeeze of lemon if you like.



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Serving Suggestions:

  • Pairs beautifully with steamed rice, jeera rice, chapati, or naan.

  • You can also serve it with coconut rice or parathas for a richer meal.

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