If you’re a fan of bold, spicy flavors, this Prawn Pepper Fry is the perfect dish to tantalize your taste buds! Originating from the rich culinary traditions of South India, this quick and flavorful prawn recipe combines the earthy heat of black pepper with aromatic spices for a dish that pairs wonderfully with dosas, appams, or even steamed rice. Its ease of preparation and robust flavors make it a favorite for seafood lovers everywhere.
Preparation time – 20 minutes
Cook time – 40 minutes
Serves – 4
Ingredients
- 500g large prawns, cleaned and deveined
- 3 tbsp mustard oil
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 2 dried red chillies
- 1 cup finely chopped onions
- 7-8 fresh curry leaves
- 1 tbsp ginger garlic paste
- 1 tsp salt (adjust as per preference)
- 1 tsp fennel seeds, roasted and ground to a powder
- 1 tbsp black peppercorns, ground to a powder
- 1 tbsp cumin powder
- 1 tbsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp Kashmiri red chilli powder
- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
- Splash of hot water
- 2-4 slit green chillies
- 3 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 tsp garam masala
Directions
- Roast the fennel seeds and black peppercorns in a dry pan over medium heat until aromatic. Let them cool, then grind to a fine powder.
- Clean the prawns thoroughly and pat them dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
- Heat mustard oil in a kadhai or deep pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Toss in the dried red chillies and curry leaves, sautéing briefly until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add salt and ginger garlic paste, cooking until the raw aroma disappears.
- Mix in the cumin powder, coriander powder, Kashmiri red chilli powder, and turmeric powder. Add a splash of hot water and cook until the oil begins to separate from the masala.
- Add the prawns to the masala and sauté for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the ground fennel and black pepper mixture over the prawns and stir well.
- Add another splash of hot water, cover, and simmer on low heat for 2 minutes or until the prawns are fully cooked.
- Turn off the heat and garnish with slit green chillies, garam masala, and a generous drizzle of lime juice. Serve hot with dosas, appams, or steamed rice.
Tips for the Perfect Prawn Pepper Fry
- Ensure the prawns are not overcooked to retain their juiciness and tenderness.
- Adjust the spice level to your preference by varying the quantity of black pepper and chillies.
- For a richer flavor, consider using freshly ground spices wherever possible.
This Prawn Pepper Fry Recipe is a testament to the magic of South Indian spices. Whether it’s a special dinner or a quick weekend treat, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy the burst of flavors and let the aromas transport you to a coastal haven! 🌴
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