Description
A Coastal Favorite Packed with Bold Flavors
Prawn Roast is a staple in Kerala and South Indian cuisine, known for its deeply spiced, slow-roasted masala that coats the prawns in an explosion of flavors. Unlike prawn curries, this dish is semi-dry, allowing the spices to cling to the prawns, ensuring a bold and concentrated taste in every bite.
The Magic of Slow Roasting
The preparation of Prawn Roast begins with fresh, juicy prawns marinated in a mix of turmeric, red chili powder, black pepper, and lemon juice, allowing the seafood to absorb a deep, zesty flavor. The prawns are then gently sautéed in coconut oil until they turn plump and golden, locking in their natural sweetness.
The real magic happens when the spiced prawns are slow-roasted with caramelized onions, ginger-garlic paste, curry leaves, tomatoes, and a rich blend of hand-ground spices. As the masala thickens, the prawns absorb all the flavors, creating a mouthwatering dish with a smoky, spicy, and slightly tangy taste.
Served piping hot with steamed rice, dosa, Malabar parotta, or appam, Prawn Roast is the perfect dish for those who crave bold, well-balanced flavors.
The magic of Prawn Roast comes from its rich combination of traditional spices and fresh seafood.
- Fresh prawns (cleaned and deveined)
- Turmeric powder
- Red chili powder
- Black pepper powder
- Coriander powder
- Garam masala
- Cumin powder
- Fennel seeds
- Mustard seeds
- Ginger-garlic paste
- Curry leaves
- Onions (thinly sliced)
- Tomatoes (finely chopped)
- Green chilies (slit)
- Tamarind paste (optional for a tangy twist)
- Lemon juice
- Fresh coconut paste (optional for added richness)
- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
- Coconut oil or ghee (for roasting)
1. High in Protein, Low in Calories
Prawns are an excellent source of lean protein, helping with muscle growth and weight management.
2. Packed with Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, prawns promote heart health, reduce inflammation, and improve brain function.
3. Supports Immune Health
The spices in Prawn Roast, like turmeric, black pepper, and ginger, have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
4. Promotes Healthy Skin and Hair
Prawns are rich in antioxidants, selenium, and zinc, which help improve skin elasticity and strengthen hair.
5. Aids Digestion
Cumin, fennel, and curry leaves enhance gut health and aid digestion, making this dish both delicious and beneficial.
Prawn Roast has its roots in coastal South India, particularly Kerala, where seafood plays a vital role in everyday meals. This dish evolved from traditional Kerala-style seafood cooking, where roasting spices and slow-cooking bring out the best flavors in fresh prawns.
Historically, Kerala’s backwaters and fishing villages were rich sources of fresh seafood. Local fishermen’s families developed recipes that used locally available spices like black pepper, red chilies, and turmeric, blending them into flavorful seafood roasts. Over time, Prawn Roast became a festive dish, often served during celebrations, family gatherings, and feasts.
Today, Prawn Roast is a must-try delicacy, enjoyed in both home kitchens and high-end seafood restaurants, celebrated for its spicy, smoky, and rich flavors.
