Prawns Theeyal Recipe (Chemeen Theeyal)
Embark on a culinary journey to the beautiful shores of Kerala with this delightful Prawns Theeyal, also known as Chemeen Theeyal. This dish, with its rich and aromatic blend of spices and roasted coconut, is a true celebration of coastal flavors that will transport you to a tropical paradise. Perfectly paired with hot steamed rice, Prawns Theeyal is a delicious way to infuse your meals with warmth and comfort.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this exquisite dish:

Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Prawns (tiger) | 500 grams |
Fresh coconut (grated) | 1 cup |
Coriander seeds (Dhania) | 2 tablespoons |
Dry red chillies | 4 |
Shallots | 8 |
Garlic (split lengthwise) | 8 cloves |
Methi seeds (Fenugreek) | 1 teaspoon |
Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1½ teaspoons |
Turmeric powder (Haldi) | A pinch (optional) |
Mustard seeds | 1 teaspoon |
Curry leaves | A few |
Tamarind | 30 grams |
Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information
The nutritional information for one serving of Prawns Theeyal is as follows:
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 350 |
Protein | 25 g |
Carbohydrates | 28 g |
Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
Fat | 15 g |
Saturated Fat | 10 g |
Cholesterol | 200 mg |
Sodium | 600 mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering Prawns Theeyal that bursts with flavor:
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Prepare the Coconut: Begin by placing the grated coconut in a blender and pulse it until it achieves a fine consistency. This step is crucial as it helps the coconut roast evenly and quickly.
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Roast the Coconut: In a wok or kadhai, add the blended coconut and start roasting it over medium flame. Stir it every 10 seconds to prevent burning. As the coconut begins to brown, watch for a light golden hue.
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Add Spices: Once the coconut is light brown, add the coriander seeds, dry red chillies, a few curry leaves, 2-3 shallots, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, and turmeric powder (if using). Continue roasting the mixture until it achieves a deep brown color and releases a rich aroma. Once done, remove it from heat and allow it to cool.
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Blend the Paste: After cooling, transfer the roasted coconut mixture back into the blender. First, pulse it to a powder. Then, add the tamarind pulp and a little water, blending until it forms a smooth, cohesive paste.
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Cook the Base: In the same wok, heat some coconut oil over medium heat. Once hot, splutter the mustard seeds. Add the remaining shallots and garlic, sautéing until they turn translucent and fragrant.
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Incorporate the Coconut Paste: Add the prepared coconut paste to the wok and mix thoroughly. Pour in 1 cup of water and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
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Season and Simmer: Season with salt to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer until you see the oil rising to the surface, which usually takes about 5-10 minutes.
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Add Prawns: Finally, gently fold in the cleaned prawns and let them cook for 3-5 minutes until they turn pink and firm. Be careful not to overcook the prawns to maintain their tender texture.
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Serve: Serve your Prawns Theeyal hot with steaming bowls of rice for a wholesome and comforting meal that is sure to delight your family and friends.
Enjoying Your Creation
Prawns Theeyal is not just a dish; it is an experience that encapsulates the essence of Kerala’s rich culinary heritage. The balance of spices, the sweetness of the coconut, and the tanginess from the tamarind combine beautifully, creating a meal that is both aromatic and flavorful. Enjoy it during a leisurely lunch, and let it whisk you away to the lush landscapes of Kerala with each delightful bite.
Feel free to explore variations of this recipe by adding vegetables or adjusting the spice levels to suit your palate. Happy cooking!