Prawn masala
Prawn masala is a delicious Indian seafood dish that combines juicy prawns with a rich and aromatic spice blend. This popular recipe features tender prawns cooked in a flavourful onion and tomato masala. The combination of spices creates a savoury dish that is full of taste and aroma. Many people enjoy prawn masala because it is easy to prepare and delivers restaurant-style flavours at home.
Prawns cook quickly, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or special family meals. The spices enhance the natural sweetness of the prawns and create a balanced flavour that seafood lovers enjoy. Whether you are new to cooking seafood or have years of experience, prawn masala is a recipe that is simple to make and satisfying to eat.
What Makes Prawn Masala Special?
Prawn masala stands out because of its rich and spicy masala base. Onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and aromatic spices come together to create a thick and flavourful sauce. The prawns absorb these flavours as they cook, resulting in a delicious dish with every bite.
Unlike many seafood recipes that require long cooking times, prawn masala comes together quickly. Prawns only need a few minutes to cook, which helps preserve their tender texture. This makes the recipe both convenient and flavourful.
The use of spices such as coriander powder, turmeric, Kashmiri chilli powder, and garam masala adds depth to the dish without overpowering the seafood. The result is a well-balanced curry that is rich, aromatic, and comforting.
Perfect for Any Meal
Prawn masala is a versatile dish that fits many occasions. You can serve it as a simple weeknight dinner or as part of a festive meal. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice, jeera rice, roti, naan, or dosa. The flavourful masala also makes it a great choice for sharing with family and friends.
This recipe works well with fresh or frozen prawns, making it easy to prepare throughout the year. You can also adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy mild flavours or spicy curries, prawn masala can be customised to your liking.
Why You Will Love This Recipe?
This prawn masala recipe uses simple ingredients that are commonly available in most kitchens. The cooking process is straightforward and beginner-friendly. The dish delivers bold flavours while requiring minimal preparation time.
If you enjoy seafood recipes that are quick, delicious, and packed with authentic Indian flavours, prawn masala is an excellent choice. The rich masala coating and tender prawns make every bite satisfying and memorable.
Explore More Seafood Recipes
If you loved this prawn masala recipe, be sure to check out our other seafood favourites. Explore delicious fish recipes and discover new flavours that your family will love.
Prawn masala
Ingredients
- 325-500 g Indian prawns deveined
- 2 tbsps oil
- 1 tsp fennel seeds
- A few curry leaves
- 2 onions
- 2 tsp ginger garlic paste
- 1 tomato
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 2 tsp coriander powder
- ¼ tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder
- ¼ tsp chilli powder
- 3 tbsps Water
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Clean and prep the prawns
- Wash the prawns thoroughly.
- De-shell and devein if needed.
Base
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan.2 tbsps oil
- Add 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds and let them sizzle.1 tsp fennel seeds
- Add a few curry leaves and sauté for a few seconds.A few curry leaves
- Add 2 chopped onions.2 onions
- Cook on medium heat until golden brown. This step is important for a rich gravy.
- Add 2 tsp ginger-garlic paste.2 tsp ginger garlic paste
- Sauté until the raw smell disappears.
- Add 1 chopped tomato.1 tomato
- Cook until it turns soft and mushy.
- Add the spices (turmeric powder, chilli powder, coriander powder, Kashmiri chilli powder and salt) and sauté well.½ tsp turmeric powder, 2 tsp coriander powder, 1 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder, ¼ tsp chilli powder, Salt to taste
- Add a little water. Cook the masala until the raw smell of the masala disappears.3 tbsps Water
- Add the cleaned prawns to the masala.325-500 g Indian prawns
- Mix well so they are coated evenly.
- Cover and cook on medium heat for 5 minutes.
- Prawns cook quickly—don’t overcook or they’ll turn rubbery.
- Sprinkle ¼ tsp garam masala.¼ tsp garam masala
- Mix gently and cook for 1–2 more minutes.
- Turn off the heat.
Serving suggestion
- Serve hot with rice, roti, or neer dosa.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Prawn masala usually takes about 25–30 minutes from start to finish, as prawns cook very quickly.
Prawns are done when they turn pink, curl into a “C” shape, and become opaque. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
Yes, just thaw them completely and drain excess water before cooking for the best texture and flavour.
It has a medium spice level, but you can adjust the chilli powder to make it milder or hotter.
Prawn masala pairs well with steamed rice, roti, naan, or dosa for a complete meal.
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