Tawa Prawns
Juicy, spicy prawns marinated in a blend of Indian spices and pan-fried to perfection on a hot tawa. A quick and delicious seafood appetizer that's ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for parties or a special weeknight meal.
For 4 servings
3 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare and Marinate the Prawns
- b.In a large mixing bowl, combine the cleaned and deveined prawns. Pat them completely dry with paper towels to ensure the marinade adheres well.
- c.Add the ginger-garlic paste, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, and salt.
- d.Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice, then sprinkle over the besan and rice flour.
- e.Using your hands, gently mix until every prawn is thoroughly and evenly coated with the spice mixture.
- f.Cover the bowl and refrigerate to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Shallow Fry the Prawns
- b.Place a tawa or a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and allow it to get hot, but not smoking.
- c.Carefully arrange the marinated prawns on the tawa in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in two batches if necessary to ensure they fry rather than steam.
- d.Fry for 2-3 minutes on the first side, until the bottom is golden-brown and crisp.
- e.Flip each prawn and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side. The prawns are done when they turn opaque, pink, and curl into a 'C' shape.
- f.Remove the cooked prawns from the tawa and place them on a plate lined with a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Transfer the hot Tawa Prawns to a serving platter.
- c.Garnish generously with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- d.Serve immediately with onion rings and lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the prawns.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best results, use fresh, large prawns. If using frozen, thaw them completely in the refrigerator and pat them very dry before marinating.
- 2A cast-iron tawa or skillet provides the best heat distribution for a perfect sear.
- 3Do not overcook the prawns. They cook very quickly, and overcooking will make them tough and rubbery.
- 4Ensure the oil is sufficiently hot before adding the prawns. This creates a crispy exterior instantly and prevents them from absorbing too much oil.
- 5For an extra layer of flavor, you can add 1/2 teaspoon of ajwain (carom seeds) to the marinade.
- 6Serve with a side of mint-coriander chutney for a refreshing dip.
Adapt it for your goals.
South Indian Style
Add 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds and a sprig of curry leaves to the hot oil before placing the prawns on the tawa for a distinct South Indian flavor.
Creamy MarinadeCreamy Marinade
Add 2 tablespoons of thick curd (yogurt) to the marinade for a tangier and slightly creamier texture. You may need to adjust the frying time slightly.
Smoky FlavorSmoky Flavor
After cooking, place the prawns in a bowl. Place a smaller steel bowl in the center, add a hot piece of charcoal, drizzle a few drops of ghee on it, and cover immediately. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to infuse a smoky flavor (dhungar method).
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Prawns are packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, muscle growth, and overall body function.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
This dish provides Omega-3 fatty acids from the prawns, which are known to support heart health by reducing inflammation and improving cholesterol levels.
Boosts Immunity
Prawns are a good source of selenium and zinc, antioxidants that help protect cells from damage and support a healthy immune system.
Anti-inflammatory Spices
The marinade includes spices like turmeric (containing curcumin) and ginger, which are renowned for their potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Frequently asked questions
Tawa Prawns can be a healthy choice as prawns are a great source of lean protein and low in calories. The spices used, like turmeric and ginger, also have health benefits. However, it is shallow-fried, so moderation is key. To make it healthier, you can minimize the oil used or try baking them.