By Prawn Jalfrezi is a spicy and tangy Indo-Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick to make and bursting with flavor. It originated from the British Indian culinary tradition and is typically made by stir-frying marinated meat, seafood, or vegetables with bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes in a thick, spicy sauce. The term “jalfrezi” is derived from the Bengali word “jhal,” meaning spicy, and “parhezi,” meaning suitable for a diet, referring to the method of lightly frying ingredients. Prawn Jalfrezi is particularly popular due to the quick-cooking nature of prawns, which absorb the bold flavors of the sauce without becoming tough or overcooked.
Ingredients
For the prawns:
- 500g medium-sized prawns, cleaned and deveined
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
For the Jalfrezi:
- 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or mustard oil for added flavor)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1-2 green chilies, slit
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp tomato ketchup (optional, for slight sweetness)
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Marinating the Prawns
Start by marinating the cleaned and deveined prawns. In a bowl, mix the prawns with turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and lemon juice. Set this aside for about 15–20 minutes. This not only flavors the prawns but also helps to eliminate any fishy smell.
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Stir-fry the prawns
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the marinated prawns and sauté them for 3–4 minutes until they turn pink and are just cooked. Do not overcook them as prawns can turn rubbery quickly. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the base
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add cumin seeds and let them crackle. Add the sliced onions and sauté them for 3–4 minutes until they turn golden but still retain some crunch — Jalfrezi is known for its slightly crunchy veggies.
Step 3: Add aromatics and vegetables
Now, add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté until the raw smell disappears. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and the oil begins to separate, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in turmeric powder, chili powder, coriander powder, and salt.
Step 4: Add bell peppers
Toss in the sliced bell peppers and sauté for another 3–4 minutes. You want them to soften slightly but still retain some bite. This balance of textures is a signature feature of a good Jalfrezi.
Step 5: Combine everything
Add the cooked prawns back into the pan and gently mix to coat them well in the spicy tomato mixture. Sprinkle garam masala and add a tablespoon of tomato ketchup if using — this helps balance the heat with a touch of sweetness. Cook everything together for 2–3 minutes on medium heat to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve immediately while hot.
Serving Suggestions
Prawn Jalfrezi is best enjoyed hot with:
- Steamed Basmati rice for a comforting meal.
- Jeera rice or pulao for something more aromatic.
- Butter naan or roti to scoop up the thick, flavorful sauce.
It also pairs wonderfully with a simple cucumber raita or onion salad on the side to balance the spice.
Tips and Variations
- If you prefer a saucier Jalfrezi, add a splash of water or a tablespoon of cream while cooking the prawns.
- You can substitute prawns with paneer, chicken, or mixed vegetables.
- For an extra layer of flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or a few drops of lemon juice before serving.
Conclusion
Prawn Jalfrezi is a delightful, bold-flavored dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers. Its combination of succulent prawns, crunchy vegetables, and robust spices makes it both satisfying and visually appealing. It’s a great choice for a weeknight dinner or when entertaining guests. With minimal prep and cook time, you can bring restaurant-style flavor right into your kitchen.
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