How to Make Indian Prawns with Tamarind
Indian prawns with tamarind is a delightful dish that combines the coastal flavors of seafood with the tangy sweetness of tamarind. This recipe is not only simple to make but also rich in flavor, offering a taste of India’s vibrant culinary heritage. Here's how to prepare this delicious dish at home.
Ingredients:
- 500 grams large prawns, cleaned and deveined
- 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 5-6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- Turmeric powder (1/2 teaspoon)
- Red chili powder (1 teaspoon, adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil (cooking oil or ghee)
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tamarind:
If using block tamarind, soak a small piece (about 2 tablespoons) in warm water for about 30 minutes. Once softened, mash it and strain the mixture to extract the tamarind juice. If using tamarind paste, you can skip this step.
2. Marinate the Prawns:
In a bowl, combine the cleaned prawns with turmeric powder, red chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Cook the Base:
Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Once they start to splutter, add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
Next, add the minced garlic, ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and release their juices. You can sprinkle a little salt to speed up this process.
4. Add the Tamarind:
Add the tamarind paste to the pan and mix well. Allow it to cook for a few minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Add the Prawns:
Now, add the marinated prawns to the pan. Stir gently to coat the prawns with the tamarind mixture. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the prawns turn opaque and are fully cooked. Be careful not to overcook them to maintain their tenderness.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the prawns are cooked, remove the pan from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with steamed rice or naan for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Indian Prawns with Tamarind:
- Use fresh prawns for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the level of tamarind based on your preference for tanginess.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of sugar to balance the sourness of tamarind.
Enjoy your homemade Indian prawns with tamarind, a dish that brings together the best of Indian spices and the fresh taste of seafood.