Prawns Tawa Masala Recipe

Introduction:

Prawns Tawa Masala is a popular dish in Indian coastal cuisine, known for its bold flavors and quick preparation. Cooked on a tawa (a flat griddle), this dish features juicy prawns marinated in a mix of spices and then cooked to perfection with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices. The result is a spicy, tangy, and savory dish that pairs wonderfully with rice, roti, or even as a side with your favorite drinks.

SOURCE

Ingredients:

For Marination:

500 grams of prawns, cleaned and deveined

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon red chili powder

1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt to taste

For Tawa Masala:

2 tablespoons oil (preferably coconut oil for authentic coastal flavor)

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

1 medium onion, finely sliced

2 green chilies, slit lengthwise

1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste

2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped

1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon red chili powder

1 teaspoon coriander powder

1/2 teaspoon cumin powder

1/4 teaspoon garam masala

1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish

Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

Marinating the Prawns:

In a mixing bowl, combine the prawns with turmeric powder, red chili powder, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well to ensure the prawns are evenly coated with the marinade.

Cover and let the prawns marinate for at least 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Preparing the Tawa Masala:

Heat oil on a tawa (flat griddle) or a large frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and let them splutter.

Add the finely sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

Add the slit green chilies and ginger-garlic paste. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the raw smell of ginger and garlic disappears.

Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and the oil starts to separate from the masala.

Now, add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, and black pepper powder. Stir well and cook the masala for a few minutes, ensuring the spices are well incorporated.

Cooking the Prawns:

Add the marinated prawns to the tawa and mix them gently with the masala. Cook the prawns on medium heat, turning them occasionally, to ensure they cook evenly.

Prawns cook quickly, so it should take about 5-7 minutes for them to turn opaque and curl up. Be careful not to overcook the prawns, as they can become tough and rubbery.

Final Touches:

Once the prawns are cooked and the masala is well combined, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Garnish the Prawns Tawa Masala with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of color and flavor.

Serving:

Serve the Prawns Tawa Masala hot with steamed rice, naan, roti, or as a flavorful starter. Squeeze some lemon juice over the prawns just before serving to enhance the tanginess.

Conclusion:

Prawns Tawa Masala is a delightful dish that brings together the fresh taste of prawns and the rich flavors of Indian spices. It's a quick and easy recipe that delivers a restaurant-quality dish right at home. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a hit with seafood lovers. Enjoy it with your favorite accompaniments and savor the burst of flavors in every bite.