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Easy Prawn Masala with prawns coated in a rich Indian masala

Easy Prawn Masala

A vibrant, coastal Indian favorite featuring juicy prawns simmered in a deeply caramelized onion-tomato gravy. Ready in 30 minutes!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g Prawns Large, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder Divided (half for marinade, half for gravy)
  • 1.5 tsp Kashmiri chili powder Divided (half for marinade, half for gravy)
  • 1 tbsp Lemon juice Freshly squeezed
  • 3 tbsp Cooking oil Divided
  • 1 tsp Cumin seeds Whole
  • 10-12 pcs Curry leaves Fresh
  • 2 medium Red onions Finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp Ginger-garlic paste Freshly homemade preferred
  • 2 pcs Green chilies Slit lengthwise
  • 2 medium Tomatoes Pureed smooth
  • 1 tsp Coriander powder Ground
  • 1/2 tsp Garam masala Good quality blend
  • to taste Salt
  • 2 tbsp Fresh coriander leaves Chopped, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Pat the prawns dry, then toss with 1/2 tsp turmeric, 1/2 tsp Kashmiri chili powder, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Set aside for 10 minutes.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Sear the prawns for 1 minute per side until pink and slightly curled. Remove to a plate immediately.
  3. Add remaining oil to the same pan. Splutter cumin seeds and curry leaves until they crackle and release their aroma.
  4. Add onions and cook for 8-10 minutes until deep golden brown. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and green chilies for 2 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in coriander powder, remaining turmeric, and Kashmiri chili powder for 30 seconds.
  6. Add pureed tomatoes and salt. Sauté until the oil separates from the edges. Pour in 1/2 cup of warm water and simmer for 5 minutes.
  7. Return prawns and juices to the gravy. Simmer covered for 2-3 minutes. Finish with garam masala and fresh coriander.