Dive into a culinary adventure with this vibrant and flavorful Spicy Shrimp Dal recipe! This isn't your grandma's dal; we're blending the comforting warmth of traditional lentil stew with the zest of succulent shrimp and a fiery kick of spices. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a symphony of textures and tastes – creamy lentils, tender shrimp, and a rich, aromatic broth that will leave you craving more. Imagine the fragrant blend of cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder mingling with the sweetness of shrimp and the earthy heartiness of the dal.
This Spicy Shrimp Dal is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. Ready to experience the magic? Let's embark on a step-by-step journey to create this exquisite dish, guiding you through each stage with clear instructions and helpful tips.
Tools Needed
- Stove
- Pan
Ingredients
- Sunflower oil
- Mustard oil
- Anise
- Spices
- Onion: 1/2 kg
- Green chilies: 4
- Curry leaves
- Ginger garlic paste: 2 spoons
- Tomatoes: 450 grams
- Peeled tomatoes: 1 kg
- Turmeric powder
- Salt
- Garam masala: 1/2 spoon
- Homemade broth: 1-3 spoons
- Chili powder
- Water
- Shrimp: 1 kg
- Pepper powder: 1/2 spoon
- Cumin powder: 1/2 spoon
- Coriander
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Spices
- Turn on the stove, put a pan in it, and pour the required amount of sunflower oil, mustard oil, etc.
- When the oil sizzles, add a little anise and then add all the remaining spices.
- Add the required amount of onion (if the recipe calls for 1 kg, use 1/2 kg), four green chilies, some curry leaves, and fry well.
- Add two spoons of ginger garlic paste and fry well.




Step 2. Build the Flavor Base
- Add 450 grams of tomatoes and fry until well cooked.
- Add 1 kg of peeled tomatoes or 1 kg of cooked tomatoes (before peeling).
- Add turmeric powder, salt to taste, half a spoon of garam masala, 1-3 spoons of homemade broth, chili powder, and a little water. Fry well.



Step 3. Cook the Shrimp
- Add shrimp and fry until they shrink and become round. Add a little more water if needed.
- Add half a spoon each of pepper powder and cumin powder, and mix well.


Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Once well mixed, the dal will thicken. Add a little coriander and fry until well browned.
- Turn off the stove and serve.


Read more: Creamy Cashew Chicken Curry: A Simple Yet Sumptuous Recipe
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the dal. This prevents them from steaming instead of browning.
2. What can I substitute for coconut milk?
For a lighter dal, you can use full-fat milk or even just extra water. The creaminess will be slightly reduced, but the flavor will still be delicious.
3. How can I adjust the spiciness?
Easily! Adjust the amount of chili powder to your preference. Start with less and add more gradually until you reach your desired heat level.
This Spicy Shrimp Dal is a testament to the delicious fusion of Indian flavors with the delightful taste of shrimp. Enjoy this satisfying and aromatic curry as a comforting weeknight meal or a show-stopping dish for your next gathering. Now go forth and create your own culinary masterpiece!