Sauteed Spicy Prawns Recipe
Spicy, succulent prawns sautéed to perfection with the right balance of flavors and a slight kick from peri peri sauce, this dish makes for an excellent side dish, adding a burst of vibrant taste to your meal. Paired with steamed rice or a flavorful Bengali-style fish curry (Shorshe Maach), this recipe offers a delightful, easy-to-make seafood option for a quick weekday dinner. Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful Sauteed Spicy Prawns recipe.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Prawns (deshelled and deveined) | 400 grams |
| Garlic (grated) | 5 cloves |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium-sized |
| Spring Onion Greens (finely chopped) | 4 sprigs |
| Coriander Leaves (chopped) | 3 sprigs |
| Red Chili Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Nando’s Peri Peri Chicken Sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 4 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Prawns:
Start by deshelling and deveining the prawns, ensuring they are thoroughly washed. In a mixing bowl, apply a teaspoon each of red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt to the prawns. Mix the spices into the prawns well and allow them to marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors. -
-
Chop the Aromatics:
While the prawns are marinating, chop the coriander leaves and spring onions. Keep them aside, as they will be added later in the cooking process for freshness and garnish. -
Cook the Onions:
Heat 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté them until they become translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. -
Add Garlic and Scallions:
Once the onions are soft and translucent, add the grated garlic to the pan and sauté it for another 30 seconds on low heat, just enough to release its aroma. Then, toss in the chopped spring onion greens and sauté for another minute, allowing the flavors to blend. -
Cook the Prawns:
Now, add the marinated prawns to the pan. Stir them gently to coat them with the onion and garlic mixture. Cover the pan and cook the prawns over medium heat for about 10 minutes. The prawns will release some liquid and cook in their own juices. -
Add Fresh Coriander:
After 10 minutes, uncover the pan, and add the freshly chopped coriander leaves to the prawns. Stir to combine, cover again, and let it cook for another minute to infuse the coriander’s freshness into the prawns. -
Peri Peri Sauce:
Uncover the pan again and drizzle in the Nando’s Peri Peri Chicken Sauce or any hot sauce of your choice. Stir well to ensure the prawns are coated with the tangy, spicy sauce. Since peri peri sauce already contains salt, there’s no need to add extra salt at this point. Let the prawns simmer on low heat for an additional 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to come together. -
Serve:
Once the prawns are cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly, switch off the flame. Transfer the Sauteed Spicy Prawns to a serving plate and garnish with additional spring onion greens for an extra burst of color and flavor. -
Optional Serving Suggestion:
Serve your Sauteed Spicy Prawns alongside steamed rice or pair it with a traditional Bengali Shorshe Maach (mustard fish) to complete the meal. This dish pairs perfectly with other rice-based dishes or can be enjoyed on its own as a hearty, flavorful side.
Tips for Perfecting Your Sauteed Spicy Prawns
- Use Fresh Prawns: For the best flavor, always try to use fresh prawns. If using frozen prawns, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the quantity of red chili powder or use a less spicy hot sauce.
- Cook on Medium Heat: Avoid cooking the prawns on high heat, as they can become rubbery. Medium heat ensures they cook gently and absorb all the wonderful flavors.
- Make It a Meal: You can turn this side dish into a main course by pairing it with a vegetable dish, such as sautéed greens or a fresh salad.
This Sauteed Spicy Prawns recipe brings together bold flavors, tender prawns, and a delightful balance of spice, making it a must-try for any seafood lover. It’s quick, easy, and packed with taste! Enjoy it with your favorite sides or on its own for a satisfying meal.
