Are you a fan of seafood? Then you’re going to love this Prawn Pulao recipe. It’s a classic Indian rice dish that combines juicy prawns with basmati rice and a melange of aromatic spices. The result is a flavourful, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a new favourite.
About the Recipe
If you’re a fan of seafood and Indian cuisine, this Prawn Pulao is a must-try recipe. It combines the delicate sweetness of prawns with the nutty aroma of basmati rice and a medley of warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. Adding creamy coconut milk takes the flavours to another level, creating a rich and satisfying dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to love this Prawn Pulao. First and foremost, it’s an incredibly flavourful dish that beautifully marries the delicate taste of prawns with the warmth of Indian spices. The combination of flavors is merely divine. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, making it incredibly convenient for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a dish that’s packed with fragrant aromas and comforting flavours?
Prawn Pulao
Cooking Tips
For the best Prawn Pulao, be sure to use fresh, high-quality prawns and soak the basmati rice as directed to make sure it cooks evenly. Don’t skimp on the spices – they’re what give this dish its incredible aroma and depth of flavor. And remember, when cooking with coconut milk, don’t let it boil vigorously, or it may curdle. Gentle simmering is key.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
This Prawn Pulao makes a wonderful main course, serving 4-6 people. It’s best enjoyed fresh and hot, straight from the pot. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. just reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up if needed. Total preparation time is around 45 minutes.
Similar Recipes
- Shrimp Biryani
- Coconut Curry Shrimp
- Seafood Paella
- Shrimp Fried Rice
- Prawn Masala
Nutrient Benefits
Not only is this Prawn Pulao incredibly flavorful, but it also packs a nutritional punch. Prawns are an excellent source of lean protein, vitamins, and minerals like zinc, selenium, and vitamin B12. Basmati rice provides complex carbohydrates and fiber, while coconut milk offers healthy fats. The array of spices used in this dish also provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Prawn Pulao
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cup Basmati Rice (soaked for 10 minutes, drained)
- 600 gms Prawns (shells removed, cleaned, washed)
- 2 Bay Leaves
- 1 1/2 tbsp Ghee
- 4 Cardamoms - 4
- Cinnamon (1 one inch piece)
- 6 Cloves
- 1 Onion (big, sliced)
- 8 Black Peppercorns
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric Powder
- 2 Green Chillies (sliced)
- 3 1/2 tbsp Coconut Milk
- 1 tbsp Coconut (grated)
- Coriander Leaves (few, chopped)
- Salt as per taste
Instructions
- Heat ghee in a pressure cooker or pressure pan over medium flame.
- Add the cardamoms, cinnamon, cloves, peppercorns and fry for 30 seconds or till they start to crackle.
- Add the onions and fry till transparent.
- Add the green chillies, lemon juice and turmeric powder.
- Stir well and cook for a minute.
- Add the rice and stir gently.
- Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes and add the prawns.
- Add coconut milk and stir.
- Now pour 3 cups of water and add salt.
- Place the lid and cook till one whistle.
- Reduce flame to low and switch off after 5 minutes.
- Open the lid and transfer to a serving bowl.
- Garnish with grated coconut and coriander leaves.
- Serve hot.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen prawns?
Surely. Just be sure to thaw the frozen prawns completely before using. Pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture from making the dish watery.
My pulao turned out mushy. What went wrong?
There are a few possible culprits here. Using too much liquid, not rinsing the rice properly, or overcooking can all lead to mushy pulao. Be sure to measure liquids precisely and cook just until the rice is tender but still has a slight bite.
How spicy is this prawn pulao?
This recipe has a gentle heat from the green chilies. If you prefer more of a kick, just increase the amount of chilies or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, you can omit the chilies entirely.
What sides pair well with pulao?
Prawn pulao is delicious with fresh cucumber raita (yogurt sauce) to balance the warm spices. Other tasty options are a simple fresh salad, roasted veggies like brussels sprouts or cauliflower, or cooling mint chutney.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes. just omit the prawns and substitute with cooked vegetables like peas, carrots, potatoes or bell peppers. You may need to adjust salt/spices to taste.
