If you’re on the hunt for a delicious dinner option that brings both flavor and flair to your table, prawn tikka masala is a fantastic choice. This dish combines succulent prawns marinated in aromatic spices with a creamy, tomato-based sauce that will leave your taste buds craving more. Not only is it a great way to impress guests, but it’s also an excellent recipe for a cozy night in. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering prawn tikka masala recipe !
Why Prawn Tikka Masala ?
Prawn tikka masala is a unique twist on the classic chicken tikka masala, offering a seafood option that feels both light and indulgent. The delicate taste of prawns perfectly complements the rich, spiced masala gravy, creating a balanced dish that’s both satisfying and exotic. It’s an excellent dinner choice for seafood lovers or anyone looking to switch up their usual meal routine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this prawn tikka masala, you’ll need the following ingredients :
For the Marinade :
400g fresh prawns (cleaned and deveined)
2 tablespoons plain yogurt
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
Juice of half a lemon
Salt to taste
For the Masala Sauce :
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 ripe tomatoes, pureed
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 tablespoon oil or ghee
½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1 : Marinating the Prawns
To begin, marinate the prawns by mixing all the marinade ingredients in a large bowl. Ensure the prawns are evenly coated with the mixture. Cover the bowl with cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse into the prawns.
Step 2 : Searing the Prawns
After marinating, heat a non-stick pan or grill over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil, and once hot, cook the prawns for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden and slightly charred. Set the prawns aside once they’re cooked through.
Step 3 : Preparing the Masala Sauce
In the same pan, add a tablespoon of oil or ghee. Once heated, toss in the cumin seeds and let them crackle for a few seconds. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute.
Next, pour in the tomato puree and tomato paste. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes until the oil separates from the sauce. At this point, add the garam masala, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
Step 4 : Creamy Perfection
To give the sauce its rich, creamy texture, slowly pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust the seasoning as needed to taste.
Step 5 : Combining the Prawns and Sauce
Add the seared prawns back into the pan with the masala sauce. Stir gently to coat the prawns with the flavorful gravy, ensuring they are heated through. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to let the prawns absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Step 6 : Serving Your Prawn Tikka Masala
Once the prawn tikka masala is ready, garnish it with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the dish hot with steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti for a complete dinner experience.
Tips for the Perfect Prawn Tikka Masala
Freshness Matters : Using fresh prawns ensures that the dish is as flavorful as possible. Frozen prawns can work in a pinch, but make sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before marinating.
Spice it Up : Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more chili powder if you prefer a hotter dish, or reduce it for a milder version.
Cream or Coconut Milk ?: The cream provides a rich, luxurious texture, but if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk is a great substitute. It adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try for Dinner
What sets prawn tikka masala apart from other dinner recipes is its combination of bold spices with the delicate texture of prawns. The recipe is versatile, allowing you to tweak the spice levels and ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Plus, it’s an excellent way to introduce seafood into your dinner rotation in a way that feels both exotic and comforting.
In just under an hour, you can create a dish that’s full of flavor and sure to become a family favorite. Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a midweek craving, prawn tikka masala is a recipe that will elevate your dinner game.
Final Thoughts
This prawn tikka masala recipe is an easy-to-make yet incredibly flavorful option for dinner that will impress everyone at the table. The rich masala sauce, combined with tender, perfectly spiced prawns, creates a memorable dining experience that’s hard to beat. So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a homemade prawn tikka masala that rivals any restaurant version !
Bon appétit !