Known for its seafood, Kerala's chemmeen or prawn variations are popular at every dining table in the southern state. This traditional recipe is quite easy to make and is also very tasty. Pair it with steamed white rice and fish curry, this dish is a must try!
So here's how you can make chemmeen thoran or prawn stir fry...
Preparation time: 10 to 15 mins
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 400 gms prawns
- 200 gms coconut, grated
- 150 gms shallots
- 1 tsp red chilli powder
- ¼ tsp turmeric powder
- 6 green chillis
- 2 garlic cloves
- 3 inch ginger
- 3 pieces cambodge ('kudampuli' or Malabar tamarind)
- 3 sprig curry leaves
- 1 ½ tbsp coconut oil
- Salt to taste
Method
Step 1: Peel and devein the prawns. Wash and clean it thoroughly. Keep it aside.
Step 2: Crush the shallots, green chillis and ginger together using a mortar and pestle. Keep it aside.
Step 3: Using a food processor, grind the coconut, red chilli powder and turmeric powder to a fine mix.
Step 4:To a thick-bottomed pan (preferably earthenware or manchatti to get the authentic taste), mix all the ingredients and blend it nicely. Add three sprigs of curry leaves and salt for taste.
Step 5: Next, add the prawns into the pan and mix it well. Then add 200 ml of water, cambodge and slit three green chillies as well.
Step 6: Close with lid and cook for about 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 7: Open the lid and cook till the water fully evaporates. Stir occassionally.
Step 8: Finally add a tablespoon of coconut oil and a sprig of curry leaves.
Step 9: Turn the flame off and cover the ‘manchatti’ with its lid for 5 minutes, so that the dish can soak up flavour.
