Recipe for Prawns Fry with Red Rice – A Coastal Delight with a Healthy Twist
Indian cuisine has a magical way of
transforming the simplest of ingredients into mouth-watering dishes, and
seafood has always held a special place in this rich culinary heritage. Among
the many delicacies, prawns fry with red
rice is a perfect combination of spice, crunch, and nourishment. While
prawns add a burst of flavor with their delicate taste and succulence, red rice
complements them with its earthy texture and health benefits. This recipe is
not just a dish—it is a wholesome platter that brings together tradition,
nutrition, and taste.
Why Prawns and Red Rice?
Prawns are widely enjoyed across coastal
regions of India, from Kerala to Goa, for their ability to absorb spices and
deliver a juicy bite. They are also rich in protein, low in calories, and a
great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health.
Red rice, on the other hand, is a
healthier alternative to white rice. It is unpolished, retains its outer bran,
and is rich in fiber, iron, and antioxidants. Unlike white rice, which can lead
to spikes in blood sugar, red rice releases energy slowly and keeps you fuller
for longer. Pairing prawns fry with red rice makes this dish both delicious and
nourishing.
Ingredients Required
For Prawns Fry:
●
500 g medium-sized prawns, cleaned
and deveined
●
2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
●
1 tsp turmeric powder
●
2 tsp red chili powder
●
1 tsp black pepper powder
●
1 tsp garam masala
●
2 tbsp lemon juice
●
2 tbsp rice flour or semolina (for
crispiness)
●
Salt to taste
●
Fresh curry leaves
●
Coconut oil for shallow frying
For Red Rice:
●
1 cup red rice
●
3 cups water
●
Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Preparing the Prawns
●
Start by washing the prawns
thoroughly and patting them dry.
●
In a large mixing bowl, add
ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, chili powder, pepper, garam masala, lemon juice,
and salt.
●
Coat the prawns evenly in this
marinade and let them rest for at least 30 minutes. The marination process
allows the spices to seep in, giving the prawns their characteristic bold
flavor.
●
Before frying, dust the prawns
lightly with rice flour or semolina for an extra crispy texture.
2. Frying the Prawns
●
Heat coconut oil in a pan. Coconut
oil not only enhances the flavor but also stays true to coastal cooking
traditions.
●
Add curry leaves for aroma and
allow them to splutter.
●
Place the marinated prawns in the
hot oil and shallow fry them on medium heat until they turn golden brown on
both sides. This usually takes 3–4 minutes per side, depending on the size of
the prawns.
●
Remove them and place them on
absorbent paper to drain excess oil.
3. Cooking Red Rice
●
Rinse red rice thoroughly and soak
it in water for 30 minutes.
●
In a pot, bring 3 cups of water to
a boil, add soaked rice, and cook until the grains turn soft yet slightly
chewy.
●
Drain any excess water and keep
the rice aside.
Serving the Dish
Serve the hot and crispy prawns fry
alongside steaming red rice. A side of tangy raw mango pickle, fresh cucumber
salad, or coconut chutney can elevate the meal further. The earthy flavor of
red rice perfectly balances the spicy, juicy prawns, creating a satisfying dish
that feels complete in itself.
Nutritional Value
●
Prawns: Rich in protein, low in fat, a good
source of selenium and vitamin B12.
●
Red Rice: High in antioxidants, dietary fiber,
and magnesium. Helps regulate cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
This combination is perfect for those who
want a wholesome meal without compromising on taste. It also caters to
fitness-conscious individuals looking for high-protein yet nutrient-dense food
options.
Conclusion
Prawns fry with red rice is more than
just a recipe—it is a culinary experience that brings together taste and
health. The crispy spice-coated prawns paired with the nutty, nutrient-rich red
rice make for a balanced meal that celebrates the essence of Indian coastal
cuisine. Whether you prepare it for a family lunch, a festive occasion, or a
weekend indulgence, this dish is sure to win hearts while keeping your health
goals in check.
