Prawns in Spicy Coconut Sauce

Prawns in Spicy Coconut Sauce Recipe from Pakistan

Region / culture: Pakistan | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Prawns in Spicy Coconut Sauce is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the richness of coconut milk with the heat of dried red chile peppers. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional South Asian cuisine, where coconut milk is a common ingredient used in curries and sauces. The combination of prawns and coconut milk creates a creamy and aromatic dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

14 oz (397 g) canned coconut milk
8 dried red chile peppers
2 tsp cumin seeds
2 tsp coriander seeds
1 tsp turmeric
1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
6 minced garlic cloves
5 tbsp peanut oil
1 large thinly sliced onion
salt
1 lb (454 g) shelled and deveined prawns

How to prepare

Process the grated fresh coconut or the desiccated coconut with 3.5 cups of hot water in a food processor.
Drape a piece of folded cheesecloth over a bowl and pour the coconut mixture into the cheesecloth.
Strain the liquid, squeezing the pulp to extract as much milk as possible.
This is thick coconut milk; set it aside.
Pour 2.5 cups of hot water over the coconut in the cheesecloth and squeeze to extract more milk into another bowl.
This second extract is thin coconut milk. Set it aside.
If you are using canned coconut milk, skip this step and proceed with the recipe.
Grind the chili peppers, cumin, and coriander seeds in a spice grinder and set them aside.
Process the thick coconut milk (or canned coconut milk) with the ground spices, turmeric, ginger, and garlic; set it aside.
Heat the oil in a heavy, shallow pan.
Add the onions and cook until the edges begin to turn almost reddish brown (about 15 minutes), stirring frequently.
Add the coconut-spice mixture and cook until the liquid evaporates and oil separates from the paste.
Cook this paste for 10 more minutes, stirring constantly.
Stir in the reserved thin coconut milk (or 2 cups of water, if you have used canned coconut milk) and let it simmer until reduced to a creamy sauce. Add salt to taste.
Stir the prawns into the sauce and cook for a few minutes until the prawns are just cooked.
Serve with steamed rice.

Grated fresh coconut

Pierce the eyes of a fresh coconut and drain off the liquid.
Put the coconut in a preheated 375°F (191°C) oven for 20 minutes.
Break it open with a hammer and separate the meat from the hard shell into large pieces.
Break the pieces into smaller ones and, using a vegetable peeler, peel the brown skin off the meat.
Grate the coconut meat in a food processor.

Variations

Add vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach to the sauce for added nutrition.
Substitute the prawns with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped peanuts for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to devein the prawns before cooking to remove any grit or impurities.

- Adjust the amount of dried red chile peppers to suit your spice preference.

- Be careful not to overcook the prawns, as they can become tough and rubbery.

- Serve the dish with steamed rice to soak up the delicious coconut sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Prawns in Spicy Coconut Sauce with steamed rice and a side of naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Strain the coconut milk to remove any lumps or impurities.

- Cook the onions until they are caramelized for a sweet and savory flavor.

- Simmer the sauce until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon for a rich and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned coconut milk instead of fresh coconut milk for convenience.

- Substitute dried red chile peppers with red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a milder spice level.

- Use vegetable oil or ghee instead of peanut oil for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Cook the prawns just before serving to ensure they are fresh and tender.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Prawns in Spicy Coconut Sauce in individual bowls garnished with fresh cilantro and a wedge of lime. - Arrange the dish on a platter with a side of steamed rice and naan bread for a visually appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Prawns in Spicy Coconut Sauce with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager beer.

- Serve with a side of cucumber raita or mango chutney for a refreshing contrast to the spicy flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Reheat the dish in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350 per serving

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 12g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 3g

Fats

- Total Fat: 28g

- Saturated Fat: 20g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 20g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 10% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains shellfish (prawns)

- May contain traces of peanuts

Summary

Prawns in Spicy Coconut Sauce is a rich and flavorful dish that is high in fats and proteins. It is a great source of iron and vitamin C, but may not be suitable for those with shellfish or peanut allergies.

Summary

Prawns in Spicy Coconut Sauce is a delicious and aromatic dish that combines the flavors of coconut milk, dried red chile peppers, and prawns. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, and is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich and flavorful taste. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Prawns in Spicy Coconut Sauce. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria was a fantastic cook, and I always loved watching her work her magic with various ingredients.

That day, Maria was busy preparing a special meal for her family, and I was lucky enough to be her sous chef. As she chopped, stirred, and mixed, I watched in awe, taking mental notes of all her techniques and secrets. But it was when she started making the prawns in spicy coconut sauce that my curiosity peaked.

I watched as Maria expertly deveined the prawns, marinated them in a flavorful blend of spices, and then cooked them in a rich coconut sauce. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I knew I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

After dinner was served, I asked Maria for the recipe, and she happily obliged. She explained each step in detail, making sure I understood the importance of each ingredient and technique. I took notes furiously, determined to recreate the dish in my own kitchen.

The next day, I set out to make the prawns in spicy coconut sauce for my family. As I deveined the prawns and mixed the spices, I could still hear Maria's voice in my head, guiding me through each step. When I finally tasted the dish, I knew I had nailed it. The flavors were spot on, and my family couldn't get enough of it.

From that day on, Prawns in Spicy Coconut Sauce became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for special occasions, family gatherings, and even just for myself when I needed a comforting meal. Over the years, I perfected the recipe, adding my own twist here and there, but always staying true to Maria's original version.

As I continued to make the dish, I shared it with friends and family, who all raved about its bold flavors and unique combination of ingredients. It became my signature dish, the one everyone asked for whenever they came over for dinner.

But it wasn't just about the dish itself. It was about the memories I had of learning the recipe from Maria, of spending time in her kitchen, and of the joy it brought to everyone who tasted it. Cooking became more than just a hobby for me; it became a way to connect with others, to create lasting memories, and to pass on traditions from one generation to the next.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, preparing another batch of Prawns in Spicy Coconut Sauce, I can't help but smile at the journey that brought me here. From that fateful day with Maria to the countless meals shared with loved ones, this recipe has become more than just a dish – it's a part of who I am, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting bonds. And for that, I am forever grateful.