Shrimp Fry is a classic from the coastal regions of India that’s sure to impress. This dish harmonizes the natural sweetness of plump shrimp with a medley of bold spices and aromatic seasonings. The shrimp are first marinated in a zesty blend of chilli powder, turmeric, coriander, and fenugreek, allowing the flavours to meld and infuse every bite with incredible depth.
About the Recipe
If you’re a seafood lover craving an explosion of flavours, this Shrimp Fry recipe is an absolute must-try. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant culinary traditions of coastal India, it combines shrimp’s natural sweetness with a symphony of spices and aromatic ingredients. The result is a dish that’s bursting with deliciousness in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to love about this Shrimp Fry recipe. The juicy shrimp, marinated to perfection, offers a delightful contrast to the crunch of coconut pieces. The warmth of ginger-garlic mingles harmoniously with the earthiness of fennel seeds, while the pop of mustard seeds adds an irresistible layer of flavour. It’s a dish that will awaken your senses and leave you craving more.
Shrimp Fry
Cooking Tips
For the best results, marinate the shrimp for at least 2 hours (or longer if possible) to allow the flavours to permeate. When frying, keep a close eye on it and stir frequently to ensure even cooking. And remember to add those fragrant cilantro and curry leaves right at the end for freshness.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
This Shrimp Fry is best served hot and fresh, straight from the pan. Pair it with steamed rice or warm naan for a satisfying meal. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving. This recipe serves 4, and the total preparation time is around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Similar Recipes
- Goan Shrimp Curry
- Chili Garlic Shrimp
- Coconut Shrimp Curry
- Spicy Shrimp Masala
- Kerala Shrimp Roast
Nutrient Benefits
Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, essential vitamins, and minerals like iodine and selenium. Combined with the antioxidant properties of spices like turmeric and the healthy fats from coconut, this dish packs a nutritious punch while still delivering bold, satisfying flavours.
Shrimp Fry
Ingredients
- 1 big Onion (finely chopped)
- 3 tbsp Coconut pieces (finely chopped)
- 2 tsp Ginger garlic paste
- 2 tsp Fennel seeds (crush coarsely)
- 4 Dried red chillies
- 3 tsp Oil
- 1 tsp Mustard seeds
- Cilantro and curry leaves
To Marinate:
- 1 lb Shrimp - 1 lb
- 3 tbs Chilli powder
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 1/4 tsp Fenugreek powder
- Lemon juice (1 Lemon)
- 2 tsp Fresh ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Clean the shrimp and marinate it.
- Let it marinate for 2 hrs in the refrigerator.
- Finely chop the onion and coconut pieces.
- Heat oil in a pan, splutter mustard, and add the chopped onion and coconut.
- Put the red chilly pieces into it and fry.
- Add the ginger and garlic paste and fry until the raw smell goes.
- Now add the marinated shrimp and cook.
- Don't add water as the shrimp has a better moisture content.
- Now add freshly crushed fennel seeds and fry the shrimp until done.
- Add the chopped cilantro and fresh curry leaves, and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Frozen shrimp work perfectly well for this dish. Just be sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Is this recipe spicy?
This recipe has a moderate spice, thanks to the chilli powder and dried red chillies. However, you can easily adjust the heat level to your preference by increasing or decreasing the chilli powder and chillies.
Can I substitute coconut oil for regular oil?
Yes, coconut oil is an excellent substitution and will beautifully complement the flavors in this dish. Just be mindful that coconut oil has a lower smoke point, so adjust the heat accordingly.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked through?
When fully cooked, the shrimp will turn opaque and slightly pink. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough and rubbery. Once added to the pan, they should only take a few minutes to cook through.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this Shrimp Fry is best enjoyed fresh and hot, you can marinate the shrimp up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. The aromatics and spices can also be prepped ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
