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