Malvani Prawn Curry

Malvani Prawn Curry

Malvani Prawn Curry

Prawns cooked in a coconut-and-kokum gravy with Malvan masala — the kokum gives it a dusky purple tinge and a fruity, sharp tartness that coconut milk smooths into a rich, layered curry. Served with Ambemohar rice, the local fragrant variety.

Cuisines

Malvani Maharashtrian

Best for

Lunch Dinner

Recipe

Prep: 20 min Cook: 30 min Total: 50 min 2-3 servings

Ingredients

250 grams prawns, cleaned and deveined
1 cup fresh coconut, grated
2 tablespoons Malvani masala
1 tablespoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
2 tablespoons tamarind pulp
2 tablespoons oil
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 medium tomato, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
2 cups water
salt to taste
1 handful fresh coriander leaves, chopped

Instructions

  1. 1 Grind the grated coconut with a little water to make a smooth paste and set aside.
  2. 2 In a bowl, marinate the prawns with turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Set aside for 10 minutes.
  3. 3 Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds, and let them splutter.
  4. 4 Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
  5. 5 Add the garlic, ginger, and chopped tomato. Cook until the tomato becomes soft.
  6. 6 Stir in the Malvani masala and cook for another 2 minutes.
  7. 7 Add the coconut paste and mix well. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. 8 Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil.
  9. 9 Add the marinated prawns and tamarind pulp. Mix well and cook for 10-12 minutes until the prawns are cooked through.
  10. 10 Adjust the salt and garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Tips

For a richer flavor, roast the coconut lightly before grinding.