Prawns Malvani Masala Recipe

Introduction: 

Prawns Malvani Masala is a delectable coastal dish hailing from the Malvan region of Maharashtra, India. Known for its rich, spicy, and tangy flavors, this dish perfectly captures the essence of Malvani cuisine. The prawns are cooked in a flavorful masala made with coconut, a blend of spices, and tamarind, creating a dish that's both comforting and full of character. It's best enjoyed with steamed rice or traditional Indian bread like chapati or bhakri.

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Ingredients:

500g prawns, cleaned and deveined

2 tablespoons oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 large tomato, finely chopped

1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon red chili powder

1 teaspoon coriander powder

1/2 teaspoon cumin powder

1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder

1 tablespoon Malvani masala (store-bought or homemade)

1/2 cup fresh grated coconut

1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)

1 tablespoon tamarind pulp

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

Marinate the Prawns:

In a bowl, marinate the prawns with turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Prepare the Masala:

Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.

Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and the oil begins to separate from the masala.

Add the Spices:

Stir in the coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala powder, and Malvani masala. Cook for a few minutes until the spices are well roasted and release their aroma.

Add Coconut and Tamarind:

Add the grated coconut and cook for 3-4 minutes until it turns light brown.

Add the tamarind pulp and a little water if needed, and cook until the masala thickens slightly.

(Optional) Add coconut milk at this stage for a richer and creamier texture.

Cook the Prawns:

Add the marinated prawns to the masala and stir well to coat them evenly.

Cook on medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the prawns are fully cooked and tender.

Garnish and Serve:

Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

Serve hot with steamed rice, chapati, or bhakri, and enjoy the burst of Malvani flavors.

Conclusion: 

Prawns Malvani Masala is a true celebration of coastal Indian flavors. The combination of succulent prawns with the aromatic Malvani masala, coconut, and tamarind creates a dish that is rich, tangy, and spicy all at once. This dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary with the right blend of spices. Serve it at your next meal, and you're sure to impress your family and guests with this authentic Malvani delicacy.