Are you dreaming of sun-drenched beaches and the tantalizing aroma of spices? Then let's transport your taste buds to the beautiful coast of Goa with this authentic Goan Prawn Curry recipe. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, delivering a burst of flavour that will leave you wanting more. This delicious dish is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's one of the best recipes for seafood lovers, offering a healthy meal packed with protein and vibrant spices.
Ingredients:
- 500g fresh prawns, peeled and deveined
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/4 tsp mustard seeds
- 1/4 tsp fenugreek seeds
- 2-3 curry leaves
- 1 large tomato, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 2 tbsp tamarind pulp (or 1 tbsp tamarind paste)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
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Spice it up: Heat the oil in a pan or pot over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds. Once they start to splutter, add the curry leaves and green chilies. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
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Aromatic base: Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Then, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Continue to sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
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Spice blend: Now, add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to prevent burning. This step helps to release the full flavour of the spices.
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Tomato tango: Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and release their juices. This usually takes around 5-7 minutes.
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Prawn perfection: Gently add the prawns to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as this can make them tough.
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Creamy coconut: Stir in the coconut milk and tamarind pulp. Season with salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with steamed rice.
Cooking Tips for the Best Goan Prawn Curry:
- Fresh is best: Using fresh prawns will significantly enhance the flavour of your curry.
- Spice level: Adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili powder according to your preference.
- Tamarind balance: If using tamarind paste instead of pulp, adjust the quantity accordingly; paste is more concentrated.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked prawns will become rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
Variations:
- Vegetable delight: Add other vegetables like potatoes, cauliflower, or beans to make it a more substantial meal.
- Coconut boost: For a richer curry, use full-fat coconut milk.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of garam masala for a deeper, more complex flavour.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
This Goan Prawn Curry is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick and healthy meal. Enjoy this taste of coastal paradise from the comfort of your own kitchen! It’s a recipe that's guaranteed to become a family favourite. Try it today and experience the magic of Goan cuisine!