Spiced, Aromatic Prawn/Shrimp Roast

Spiced, Aromatic Prawn/Shrimp Roast

Ingredients

Serves 4

500g prawns or shrimps, peeled and deveined

3 teaspoon kashmiri chili powder

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 green chili, slit

1 inch fresh ginger piece

5 sprig curry leaves, divided

Salt, to taste

2 cups water, plus extra for grinding

2 tablespoon oil, or more (use coconut oil for authentic taste)

Directions

Grind ginger, green chili, 2 sprig curry leaves, turmeric powder and chili powder to a smooth paste, adding a small amount of water. 

In a heavy-based pan, combine the masala paste with the water and place over medium-low heat. Tip in the prawns and season. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until prawns are tender. Then increase the heat and boil the liquid until thick and reduced, stirring often. When most of the liquid has been absorbed and the prawns are coated with the marinade, drizzle generously with oil. Taste and season, if needed. Add remaining curry leaves — or as much as you like — and cook over very low heat for a few more minutes. Ah, at this stage, don't forget to enjoy the smell of the roasting prawns wafting through the kitchen, whetting your appetite! And, take care not to scorch the marinade. Remove from heat when the prawns start to crisp and turn golden brown. Serve warm with steamed rice.