Dive into the vibrant flavors of Kerala with this authentic prawn and drumstick curry recipe, a dish that captures the essence of coastal Indian cuisine. Imagine tender, succulent prawns swimming in a rich, coconut-infused gravy, perfectly balanced with the subtle bitterness of drumsticks (moringa) and a medley of aromatic spices. This recipe transports you to the sun-drenched shores of Kerala, offering a taste of paradise in every spoonful. Forget bland, generic seafood curries; this recipe promises a depth of flavor that will leave you craving more.
The key to this Kerala prawn curry lies in the careful blending of traditional spices and the perfect cooking technique to ensure the prawns remain juicy and the drumsticks tender. Ready to embark on a culinary journey? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions that will guide you through creating this restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Tools Needed
- Wok
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Oil: 5 tbsps
- Fenugreek seeds: just under ½ tsp
- Mustard seeds: ½ tsp
- Cumin seeds: ½ tsp
- Dry red chili: 1
- Onions: 2 medium, thinly sliced
- Curry leaves: a few fresh
- Ginger: 1 tsp, freshly crushed
- Garlic: 1 tsp, freshly crushed
- Salt: 1 ½ tsp
- Turmeric powder: ½ tsp
- Chili powder: 1 tsp
- Drumsticks: 3, cleaned, scraped, sliced lengthwise
- Tomato: 1, chopped
- Prawns: 250g, fresh, cleaned
- Raw mango: 1, peeled and chopped
- Water: 200 mL
- Thick coconut milk: 300 mL
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Spices
- Heat 5 tbsps of oil in a wok. Let the oil heat well to release the aroma of the spices.
- Add fenugreek seeds and brown them.
- Add mustard seeds and wait for them to crackle. Then add cumin seeds and one dry red chili.
- Add thinly sliced onions and sauté over medium heat for about 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Add curry leaves, crushed ginger and garlic. Cook until the raw smell fades (about 30 seconds to a minute).
- Add salt, turmeric powder, and chili powder. Stir well to coat the onions.
Step 2. Cook Vegetables
- Add the sliced drumsticks and mix well. Cover and cook on medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the chopped tomato. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes until soft.
Step 3. Add Prawns and Simmer
- Add the prawns and chopped raw mango. Mix well.
- Pour in 200 mL of water. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4. Finish with Coconut Milk
- Add 300 mL of thick coconut milk. Stir well, cover, and bring to a gentle boil.
Read more: Creamy Cashew Chicken Curry: A Simple Yet Sumptuous Recipe
Tips
- Slow cooking the onions brings out their sweetness.
- Curry leaves add depth to the aroma.
- Drumsticks add texture and nutrients.
- Raw mango adds a refreshing tanginess.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the drumsticks? I don't have access to them.
Yes, you can substitute with other vegetables like potatoes, green beans, or even okra. They'll add a different texture and flavor, but the curry will still be delicious.
2. How do I prevent the prawns from becoming rubbery?
Don't overcook the prawns! Add them towards the end of the cooking process, once the gravy has thickened. They only need a few minutes to cook through.
This Kerala prawn and drumstick curry recipe is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients elevated by authentic techniques. Enjoy the satisfying aroma and rich flavors that transport you straight to the coast of Kerala. Indulge in this delicious dish, and savor the rewarding experience of creating restaurant-quality seafood at home.