Tandoori Prawn Skewers (Tandoori Jinga)
Tandoori Prawn Skewers, or Tandoori Jinga, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the bold spices and smoky essence of Indian cooking right to your table. The prawns are marinated in a rich combination of fresh ingredients, garlic, ginger, and a touch of heat from the chili powder, then grilled to perfection, resulting in a juicy and tender bite. This medium-spiced recipe is a perfect choice for a quick and delicious appetizer or a light meal. The tangy lemon juice and fresh coriander elevate the dish with a refreshing finish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large uncooked king prawns | 12 |
| Fresh chili, finely chopped | 1 |
| Chilli powder | ½ tsp |
| Garlic cloves | 3 |
| Fresh ginger (3 cm piece) | 1 |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Lemon, juice | 1 |
Instructions
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Prepare the Marinade: Begin by crushing the ginger and garlic in a pestle and mortar until you achieve a smooth paste. This will release their natural flavors and create the base of your marinade.
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Season the Prawns: In a large mixing bowl, combine the prawns with the chili powder, salt, lemon juice, and the freshly crushed ginger and garlic paste. Mix well, ensuring the prawns are fully coated. Set aside for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Marinate (Optional but Recommended): For an even richer flavor, blend all the marinade ingredients together in a food processor and coat the prawns thoroughly. Let them marinate for at least 15-30 minutes, though if time allows, refrigerating for a few hours or overnight will intensify the flavors.
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Skewer and Cook: Thread the marinated prawns onto skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Heat a griddle pan or barbecue and cook the prawns for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until they turn pink and are just cooked through. The prawns should be tender and slightly charred on the edges.
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Serve: Once cooked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the prawns and garnish with freshly chopped coriander. Serve immediately for a refreshing, smoky treat.
Allergen Information
- Contains shellfish (prawns)
- May contain traces of garlic and chili, which may cause sensitivity in some individuals.
Dietary Preferences
- Suitable for pescatarians
- Can be adapted to gluten-free diets if marinated in gluten-free ingredients
- Not suitable for those with shellfish allergies
Tips & Variations
- For a Richer Flavor: If you have time, let the prawns marinate overnight in the fridge to absorb more of the spices and garlic.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of fresh chili and chili powder to suit your preferred spice level. You can make this dish milder by reducing the chili powder or opting for a milder chili variety.
- Grilling Option: If you prefer an outdoor barbecue, these prawns will take on an even more intense smoky flavor, perfect for summer gatherings.
Conclusion
These Tandoori Prawn Skewers are a simple yet flavor-packed dish that will undoubtedly be a hit at any gathering. The prawns are succulent and full of aromatic spices, with a delightful balance of heat and zest. Whether you’re cooking them for a quick weeknight dinner or serving them as part of a larger meal, these skewers are sure to impress. Paired with a cool, refreshing drink and a side of fresh greens, Tandoori Jinga will be a meal to remember!
