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Chettinad Prawns Fry (Chettinad Shrimp Fry)

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Pan Frying
  • Cuisine: South Indian, Chettinad

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

  1. In a bowl, mix prawns with salt, turmeric, chili powder, coriander powder, lemon juice, and ginger-garlic paste.
  2. Let it marinate for 15-30 minutes while you prepare the masala.

Step 2: Cook the Masala

  1. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat.
  2. Add fennel seeds, dried red chilies, and curry leaves; sauté until fragrant.
  3. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

Step 3: Fry the Prawns

  1. Add the marinated prawns to the pan and stir well.
  2. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until prawns turn pink and are cooked through.
  3. Sprinkle black pepper powder, Chettinad spice mix, and garam masala, tossing well to coat the prawns.
  4. Cook for another 2 minutes until dry and slightly crispy.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve

  1. Drizzle 1 tsp ghee for extra aroma.
  2. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
  3. 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.