Description
This Chettinad Prawns Fry is a spicy, aromatic, and flavorful South Indian dish, packed with bold spices and a crispy texture. Marinated prawns are sautéed in a fragrant blend of Chettinad spices, curry leaves, and garlic, making it the perfect side dish for rice, roti, or dosa.
Ingredients
Scale
For Marination:
- 500g (1 lb) prawns/shrimp (peeled & deveined, tails optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
For the Masala Fry:
- 2 tbsp oil (coconut oil for authentic flavor)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 dried red chilies (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- 1 tsp fennel seeds
- 1 tsp black pepper powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala (optional, for extra depth)
- 1 tbsp Chettinad spice mix (see notes for homemade version)
- 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves (for garnish)
- 1 tsp ghee (optional, for finishing flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Prawns
- In a bowl, mix prawns with salt, turmeric, chili powder, coriander powder, lemon juice, and ginger-garlic paste.
- Let it marinate for 15-30 minutes while you prepare the masala.
Step 2: Cook the Masala
- Heat 2 tbsp oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat.
- Add fennel seeds, dried red chilies, and curry leaves; sauté until fragrant.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
Step 3: Fry the Prawns
- Add the marinated prawns to the pan and stir well.
- Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until prawns turn pink and are cooked through.
- Sprinkle black pepper powder, Chettinad spice mix, and garam masala, tossing well to coat the prawns.
- Cook for another 2 minutes until dry and slightly crispy.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
- Drizzle 1 tsp ghee for extra aroma.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with steamed rice, dosa, or parotta.
Chettinad Spice Mix (Homemade) 🌶️
(Dry roast and grind the following for an authentic Chettinad flavor!)
- 1 tsp fennel seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 2 dried red chilies
- ½ tsp coriander seeds
- ½ tsp cinnamon (small piece)
- 2 cloves
Grind to a fine powder and store for future use!
Notes
- Extra Crispy? Pan-fry the prawns in less oil until golden brown.
- More Heat? Add extra black pepper or crushed red chilies.
- No Prawns? Use chicken or mushrooms for a delicious variation!
- Make It a Gravy: Add ½ cup coconut milk for a semi-thick curry.