Colombi Rice Recipe – Maharashtrian Prawn Rice
Introduction:
Colombi Rice, also known as Maharashtrian Prawn Rice, is a delightful and aromatic dish that brings together the rich flavors of prawns, spices, and rice. This traditional recipe from Maharashtra is perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner. With its bold and vibrant ingredients, including fresh prawns, tomatoes, and a variety of spices, Colombi Rice offers an authentic taste of coastal Indian cuisine. The recipe is simple yet flavorful, making it an ideal dish for those who love a combination of seafood and aromatic rice.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shelled prawns | 200 grams |
| Cooked rice | 2 cups |
| Tomatoes (finely chopped) | 3 |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Garlic cloves | 5 |
| Ginger (1-inch piece) | 1 |
| Green chilies | 3 |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Kashmiri red chili powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Turmeric powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Cloves | 2 |
| Cinnamon stick (1/2 inch) | 1 piece |
| Cardamom pods | 2 |
| Bay leaves | 2 |
| Sugar | A pinch |
| Goda masala | 1 tsp |
| Asafoetida (hing) | 1/4 tsp |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Oil | As needed |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 2
Cuisine: Maharashtrian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Heat Oil and Temper Spices:
Begin by heating oil in a pan or wok. Once the oil is hot, add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) and sauté it for about 10 seconds to release its aroma. Next, add cumin seeds, cloves, cardamom pods, a cinnamon stick, and bay leaves. Sauté the spices for 30 seconds, allowing them to release their flavors into the oil. -
Add Onions, Garlic, Ginger, and Curry Leaves:
To the spiced oil, add finely chopped onions, curry leaves, ginger, and garlic. Cook them until the onions soften and turn golden brown, which should take about 4-5 minutes. -
Cook Tomatoes:
Once the onions are ready, add the finely chopped tomatoes and cook for 3-5 minutes until they become soft and begin to break down into a thick paste. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. -
Add Spices and Prawns:
Add the turmeric powder, Kashmiri red chili powder, and salt to the mixture, and stir well to combine. Now, add the prawns and cook them thoroughly until they turn pink and opaque, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. -
Combine Rice and Cook Together:
Once the prawns are cooked, add the cooked rice to the pan. Stir gently to combine the prawns and spices with the rice. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors of the prawns and spices. -
Finishing Touches:
Turn off the heat, and garnish the dish with freshly chopped cilantro (coriander leaves). Serve hot with a side of boondi raita or tomato, onion, and cucumber raita for an added burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
This Maharashtrian Prawn Rice (Colombi Rice) pairs beautifully with cooling yogurt-based side dishes like boondi raita or fresh tomato-cucumber onion raita. It can be enjoyed as a hearty lunch or dinner and makes a perfect dish for family meals or special occasions.
Tips for Best Results:
- Fresh Prawns: Use fresh, shelled prawns for the best flavor. If using frozen prawns, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the number of green chilies or use less red chili powder. Conversely, increase the chilies for a spicier version.
- Rice Quality: Use good-quality basmati rice for a fragrant and fluffy texture that complements the prawns well.
Conclusion:
Colombi Rice is a rich, aromatic, and delicious dish that captures the essence of Maharashtrian coastal cuisine. The combination of prawns, spices, and rice creates a perfect balance of flavors that will surely leave you craving for more. Whether you’re hosting a special meal or just enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this prawn rice recipe is a must-try for any seafood lover.
