Sarso Prawns
A classic Bengali delicacy featuring juicy prawns simmered in a sharp, pungent mustard seed gravy. This authentic Shorshe Chingri is a flavor explosion, perfect for a special meal with steamed rice.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Mustard Paste
- b.Soak the black mustard seeds, yellow mustard seeds, and poppy seeds in warm water for at least 20 minutes. This helps soften them and reduces bitterness.
- c.Drain the water and transfer the soaked seeds to a grinder jar.
- d.Add 3 green chillies, a pinch of salt, and 2-3 tablespoons of water. Grind to a very smooth paste. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Marinate and Fry the Prawns
- b.In a bowl, combine the cleaned prawns with 1/2 tsp of turmeric powder and 1/2 tsp of salt. Mix well and let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.
- c.Heat the mustard oil in a pan or kadai over medium-high heat until it is aromatic and just begins to smoke. Reduce the heat slightly.
- d.Carefully add the marinated prawns and shallow fry for 1-2 minutes, turning once, until they turn pink and curl up. Do not overcook.
- e.Remove the prawns with a slotted spoon and keep them aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Sauté the Aromatics
- b.In the same oil, add the nigella seeds (kalonji) and the 2 slit green chillies. Let them sizzle for about 30 seconds.
- c.Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
- d.Add the ginger paste and garlic paste. Cook for another minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Build the Gravy
- b.Stir in the tomato puree, the remaining 1/2 tsp of turmeric powder, and the remaining salt. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the oil begins to separate from the masala.
- c.Reduce the heat to low. Add the prepared mustard paste and cook for just 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously. Cooking it for too long or on high heat will make it bitter.
- d.Add the whisked curd and sugar. Mix quickly and continuously to prevent the curd from splitting. Cook for one more minute.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Simmer and Finish
- b.Pour in 1 cup of warm water and stir to combine everything. Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer.
- c.Add the fried prawns back to the pan. Mix gently to coat them in the gravy.
- d.Cover and simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing the prawns to absorb the flavors of the gravy.
- e.Turn off the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Let the curry rest for 5 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always use authentic mustard oil for the signature pungent flavor of this dish.
- 2Do not overcook the prawns, or they will become tough and rubbery. A minute or two of frying is sufficient.
- 3Cook the mustard paste on low heat and for a short time to prevent it from turning bitter.
- 4Soaking the mustard seeds in warm water with a pinch of salt is crucial to reduce bitterness.
- 5For a smoother gravy, you can strain the mustard paste through a fine-mesh sieve before adding it to the pan.
- 6Whisk the curd well and add it on low heat to prevent it from curdling in the gravy.
Adapt it for your goals.
With Coconut
Add 2-3 tablespoons of freshly grated coconut or coconut paste along with the mustard seeds while grinding for a richer, creamier gravy.
With VegetablesWith Vegetables
You can add diced potatoes or eggplants. Fry them separately until golden brown and add them to the gravy to simmer along with the prawns.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the number of green chillies in the paste or add a pinch of red chilli powder along with the turmeric for extra heat.
With FishWith Fish
This same gravy works wonderfully with fish like Hilsa (Ilish) or Rohu (Rui). Pan-fry the fish pieces first and then add them to the simmering gravy.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Lean Protein
Prawns are a fantastic source of high-quality, low-fat protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Mustard oil is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce bad cholesterol and support cardiovascular health.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Turmeric and mustard seeds contain compounds like curcumin and selenium, which have potent anti-inflammatory effects, helping to combat inflammation in the body.
Rich in Minerals
Prawns are a good source of essential minerals like selenium, zinc, and iodine, which are vital for immune function and thyroid health.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of Sarso Prawns (approximately 275g) contains around 350-450 calories, primarily depending on the amount of mustard oil used and the fat content of the prawns.