Mangalorean Prawn Curry

INGREDIENTS

• 500g prawns (cleaned and deveined)
• 2 tbsp oil (preferably coconut oil)
• 1 large onion (finely chopped)
• 2 tomatoes (chopped)
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 2-3 green chilies (slit lengthwise)
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp tamarind paste (or juice of 1 small lemon)
• 1/2 cup fresh coconut (grated)
• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 1/4 tsp sugar (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Paste

- Grind the grated coconut into a smooth paste with a little water. Set it aside.

Step 2: Temper the Spices

- Heat coconut oil in a pan, and add mustard seeds.

- Once they splutter, add curry leaves and sauté for a few seconds.

Step 3: Cook the Onions and Tomatoes

- Add the chopped onions to the pan and sauté them until golden brown.

- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook them until they soften and become mushy.

Step 4: Add Ginger-Garlic and Green Chilies

- Add ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies, cooking them until fragrant.

Step 5: Add Dry Spices

- Add red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and garam masala.

- Stir and cook for a minute.

Step 6: Add the Coconut Paste

- Add the ground coconut paste and mix well.

- Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the oil begins to separate from the masala.

Step 7: Add Tamarind Paste and Water

- Add tamarind paste and a cup of water to the curry. Stir to combine.

Step 8: Cook the Prawns

- Add the prawns to the curry and cook for 4-5 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through.

- Be careful not to overcook the prawns.

Step 9: Adjust Consistency

- If the curry is too thick, add more water to reach your desired consistency.

- Add salt to taste and stir well.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a pinch of sugar (if desired) for balance.

- Serve this rich Mangalorean Prawn Curry with steamed rice or neer dosa for a complete meal.