How to Make Prawn Malai Curry: Creamy Bengali Seafood Recipe You Must Try

If there’s one dish that captures the essence of coastal comfort and Bengali richness, it’s the Prawn Malai Curry. This iconic Bengali seafood delicacy is known for its creamy texture, coconut-based gravy, and the irresistible taste of fresh prawns cooked with aromatic Indian spices. Perfect for both weekend indulgence and festive spreads, this dish is a must-try for any seafood lover.

In this blog, we’ll explore the authentic prawn malai curry recipe, including ingredients, step-by-step preparation, cooking tips, and the history behind this flavorful creation. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this guide will help you bring restaurant-quality results straight to your home kitchen.

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Why Is Prawn Malai Curry So Popular?

Prawn Malai Curry, also known as “Chingri Malai Curry” in Bengali households, is deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of Eastern India. The term “Malai” refers to the richness of the curry, which comes from coconut milk, yogurt, and ghee. What makes it stand out is the perfect harmony of spices, seafood, and creaminess, all cooked to create a symphony of textures and flavours.

This dish combines subtle sweetness, a hint of spice, and the richness of coconut-based Indian curry, making it a popular item in Bengali weddings, coastal cuisine restaurants, and special family gatherings.

Ingredients for Authentic Prawn Malai Curry

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this dish

• Tiger Prawns (de-shelled and de-veined) – 500 gms
• Onion – 1 large
• Yogurt – 1 cup
• Coconut Milk – 1 cup
• Ginger Paste – 1 tsp
• Cinnamon – 1–2 sticks
• Bay Leaf – 1–2 pieces
• Dried Red Chillies – 2–3
• Cardamom (Green) – 4–5 pods
• Red Chilli Powder – 1 tsp
• Turmeric Powder – 2 tsp
• Garam Masala – 1 tsp
• Ghee – 10 ml
• Salt – As required
• Sugar – 5 gms
• Oil – 50 ml

Step-by-Step Prawn Malai Curry Recipe

1. Marinate the Prawns: Take cleaned tiger prawns and marinate them with turmeric, salt, and a bit of oil. Let them sit for 10 minutes in the refrigerator.
2. Fry the Prawns: Heat oil in a pan. Lightly fry the marinated prawns for 45 seconds on each side to seal in the juices. Keep them aside.
3. Prepare the Base: In the same pan, add ghee. Once it heats, add bay leaves, dried red chillies, green cardamom, and cinnamon sticks. Let them release their aroma.
4. Sauté the Onions: Add finely chopped onions and sugar. Cook till the onions turn golden brown.
5. Add Spice and Aroma: Now mix in the ginger paste, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook until the mixture becomes dry and aromatic.
6. Mix Yogurt and Coconut Milk: Beat the yogurt and slowly add it to the pan. Let it simmer for 5 minutes. Then add the coconut milk and let the curry base cook for another 5 minutes.
7. Add the Prawns: Add the fried prawns back to the curry and cook for just 2 minutes. Overcooking prawns can make them rubbery, so timing is key.
8. Serve Hot: Your authentic prawn malai curry is ready! Serve hot with steamed basmati rice, jeera rice, or light parathas.

Pro Tips for Perfect Prawn Malai Curry

• Always use fresh tiger prawns or medium-sized prawns for better texture.
• Coconut milk should be thick and creamy. You can also make it fresh at home using grated coconut and warm water.
• Avoid boiling prawns for too long, as it toughens them.
• Marination time can be extended to 30 minutes for deeper flavour infusion.
• Use ghee and mustard oil combination for an authentic Bengali touch.

Health Benefits of Prawn Malai Curry

• Rich in Protein: Prawns are a great source of lean protein and low in fat.
• Good Fats: Coconut milk contains medium-chain triglycerides, which are healthier fats.
• Anti-inflammatory Spices: Ingredients like turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon have natural healing properties.
• Low Carb: Makes a good keto-friendly meal when served without rice.

Where Can You Learn to Cook Dishes Like This?

At TEDCO Education, we offer culinary diploma courses that cover everything from basic cooking techniques to professional-level seafood dishes. You’ll learn how to prepare traditional recipes like prawn malai curry using both Indian and international methods.

Whether you're an aspiring chef or a home cook, our courses ensure you're equipped to cook gourmet dishes in a professional environment. Learn directly from industry experts and explore the world of seafood cooking classes in Delhi and beyond.

Pairing Ideas for Prawn Malai Curry

• Steamed Basmati Rice
• Jeera Pulao
• Lachha Paratha
• Cucumber Mint Raita
• Onion-Tomato Salad with lemon

For a fine-dining experience, serve with white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or light Chardonnay to complement the creaminess of the curry.

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Final Thoughts

If you're a seafood enthusiast or someone eager to explore traditional Indian curries, prawn malai curry is a recipe you must try. It's elegant, aromatic, rich, and comforting – everything you'd want in a home-cooked meal or a professional dish.

With the guidance provided above, you can recreate the magic of this authentic Bengali seafood curry in your kitchen. And if you’re looking to build your career as a chef or take your cooking skills to the next level, TEDCO’s culinary courses are a great place to start.

Ready to spice up your kitchen? Grab those prawns, bring out the spices, and cook up a bowl of creamy prawn malai curry today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is prawn malai curry made of?
Prawn malai curry is made using prawns, coconut milk, yogurt, aromatic spices, and ghee. It’s creamy and mildly spiced, popular in Bengali and coastal cuisines.

2. Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen prawns. Just make sure they are properly cleaned, de-shelled, and thawed before marinating.

3. Is prawn malai curry spicy?
No, it is a mildly spiced curry. The flavors come from coconut milk, yogurt, and whole spices like cinnamon and cardamom.

4. What can I serve with prawn malai curry?
It pairs well with plain rice, jeera rice, roti, or paratha. You can also serve it with salad or raita.

5. How long should I cook the prawns?
Prawns should be cooked for just 2 to 3 minutes in the curry to keep them soft and juicy.

6. Can I substitute coconut milk?
Yes, you can use cream or cashew paste as a substitute, but the taste will not be exactly the same.

7. Is prawn malai curry gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. It does not include any wheat or maida.

8. Can I use small prawns or shrimps?
Yes, you can use small prawns or shrimps. They cook faster, so be careful not to overcook them.

9. Is it suitable for special occasions?
Definitely! This dish is often made for festivals, weddings, and family gatherings due to its rich flavor.

10. Where can I learn seafood recipes like this professionally?
You can join a professional cooking course at Tedco Education to learn how to make seafood dishes like prawn malai curry.