Andaman Style Steamed Garlic Prawns Recipe
Inspired by the flavors of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, are a group of islands known for their beautiful beaches and vibrant culture. The cuisine here doesn’t adhere to one specific style but rather draws inspiration from Indian, Burmese, and Oriental flavors, creating a fusion of tastes that is truly unique. Among the many dishes, the Andaman Style Steamed Garlic Prawns stands out as a simple yet flavorful recipe that blends the aromatic essence of garlic and spices with the tender sweetness of prawns. This dish, adapted from Oriental culinary traditions, is an ideal side dish that pairs beautifully with plain steamed rice, making it perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Prawns | 10 pieces |
| Soy sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Sesame (Gingelly) oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 10 cloves |
| Green chilies (finely chopped) | 2 pieces |
| Coriander (Dhania) leaves (finely chopped) | 2 tablespoons |
| Whole black peppercorns (crushed, optional) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | Few drops |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Garlic and Chili Infusion:
Begin by collecting the finely chopped garlic and green chilies in a heatproof bowl. Set them aside. In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil until it becomes smoking hot. Once the oil is hot, carefully pour it over the garlic and chilies, ensuring that they sizzle and release their aroma. This step infuses the oil with a rich garlic-chili flavor, which will later coat the prawns. Allow this garlic oil to cool and set aside. -
Prepare the Prawns:
While the garlic oil is cooling, set up a steamer. Place the prawns in a flat pan or plate that will fit inside the steamer. Pour the cooled garlic-infused oil over the prawns and gently rub them to ensure they are evenly coated. Season the prawns with salt to taste. Let them marinate for a few minutes as the steamer heats up. -
Steam the Prawns:
Once the prawns are marinated, steam them for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until they turn pink and are fully cooked through. The steaming process helps retain the natural sweetness of the prawns while infusing them with the rich garlic and chili flavors. -
Prepare the Sauce:
While the prawns are steaming, mix together the soy sauce and sesame oil in a small bowl. This combination will add a touch of umami and richness to the dish. -
Serve:
Once the prawns are cooked, carefully remove them from the steamer. Drizzle the prepared soy sauce and sesame oil mixture over the prawns. For an added burst of flavor, sprinkle freshly crushed black pepper and garnish with finely chopped coriander. If desired, add a few drops of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the dish. Serve the Andaman Style Steamed Garlic Prawns hot as a side dish along with steamed rice and Jeera Rasam for a wholesome and delightful meal.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains the following common allergens:
- Shellfish: The primary ingredient in this recipe is prawns, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals with shellfish allergies.
- Soy: The inclusion of soy sauce makes this dish unsuitable for individuals with soy allergies.
Note: Please check the ingredients of the soy sauce to ensure it does not contain any allergens you may need to avoid.
Dietary Preferences
- Non-Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for non-vegetarians as it contains prawns (a type of shellfish).
- Gluten-Free: If using gluten-free soy sauce, this dish can be considered gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe does not contain any dairy products.
- Low-Carb: As this dish primarily consists of prawns and seasonings, it is low in carbohydrates.
Advice & Variations
- Prawn Alternatives: If you prefer a different type of seafood, you can substitute the prawns with fish fillets or scallops. Both will work well with the garlic-chili infusion.
- Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder version of this dish, reduce the amount of green chilies used or omit them entirely. You can always adjust the heat level according to your taste.
- Herb Garnishes: While coriander leaves provide a fresh and herby touch, you can experiment with other herbs like mint or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
The Andaman Style Steamed Garlic Prawns is a simple yet flavorful dish that captures the essence of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ diverse culinary influences. The combination of tender prawns, aromatic garlic, and a hint of chili, all steamed to perfection, makes this recipe an ideal side dish to complement your favorite meals. Whether you’re serving it with steamed rice or pairing it with a tangy Jeera Rasam, this dish is sure to bring a burst of flavor to your table. Enjoy the rich, fragrant taste of the Andaman Islands right in your own home!
