Introduction: Prawn Malai Curry is a delicious and aromatic seafood dish that originates from the coastal regions of India. This creamy curry combines succulent prawns with a rich and flavorful coconut milk-based gravy, creating a harmony of taste that will tantalize your taste buds. In this article, we will explore the origins, ingredients, and step-by-step process of preparing this exquisite Prawn Malai Curry.
1. The Origins of Prawn Malai Curry:
Prawn Malai Curry is a popular dish from the coastal
areas of India, where seafood is abundantly available. It is particularly
famous in the states of West Bengal, Odisha, and Kerala, which boast a rich
culinary heritage known for their love of seafood. The dish showcases the
coastal flavors and traditional cooking techniques of these regions.
2.
Gathering
the Ingredients: To prepare Prawn Malai Curry, you will need the following
ingredients:
- 500 grams of fresh prawns, peeled and deveined
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 4-5 green chilies, slit lengthwise
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 1 cup thick coconut milk
- 1/2 cup cashew nut paste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt to taste
- Cooking oil or ghee for frying
3.
Step-by-Step
Preparation: Step 1: Clean the prawns thoroughly and marinate them with
turmeric powder and salt. Set them aside for 15-20 minutes. Step 2: Heat oil or
ghee in a pan over medium heat. Fry the marinated prawns until they turn pink
and are cooked through. Remove them from the pan and set them aside. Step 3: In
the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Add the chopped onions and sauté
until they become translucent. Step 4: Add the ginger and garlic paste and
sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears. Step 5: Add the tomato
puree, green chilies, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder,
coriander powder, and salt. Cook the masala mixture on medium heat until the
oil starts to separate from the sides. Step 6: Add the cashew nut paste to the
pan and mix well with the masala. Step 7: Reduce the heat to low and add the
coconut milk to the pan. Stir gently to combine the flavors. Step 8: Bring the
gravy to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 9: Add the fried prawns to the gravy and simmer for another 2-3 minutes,
allowing them to absorb the flavors of the curry. Step 10: Sprinkle garam
masala powder and fresh coriander leaves over the curry for an added aromatic
touch. Step 11: Serve the Prawn Malai Curry hot with steamed rice or naan
bread, and enjoy the creamy and delectable flavors.
4.
Serving Suggestions:
Prawn Malai Curry pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice, as it allows the
flavors of the curry to shine through. You can also serve it with Indian breads
like naan, roti, or paratha. Accompany the curry with a side of cucumber and
onion salad, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing contrast.
Conclusion: Prawn Malai Curry is a delightful seafood
dish that brings together the richness of coconut milk, the warmth of spices,
and the succulence of prawns. It is a perfect choice for seafood lovers and
those looking to explore the coastal flavors of Indian cuisine. Prepare this
creamy delicacy at home and indulge in the mouthwatering experience of Prawn
Malai Curry.