Tandoori prawns is one of the the most famous Indian grilled sea food dish in India as well as all over the world. Prawns or shrimps are marinated in hung yogurt and some select spices and is usually cooked in a round grill over charcoal (The Tandoor) .Hence the name Tandoori prawns. However this can be also prepared at home in a convection oven or in a grill pan . It is a very popular appetizer or a party snack.
Preparation time : 20 mins
for hung curd (4 to 5 hrs)
Marination time : 30 mins
Cooking time : 20 to 25 mins
Serves : 2 to 3
INGREDIENTS :
Medium or large sized prawns (Cleaned and de-veined with tail on) around 12 to 15 pieces
FOR THE MARINATION :
Turmeric powder 1/2 spoon
Red chilly powder 1 Tsp
Tandoori masala 1 tsp
Ginger garlic paste 3 tsp
Lemon juice 1 Tbsp
Gram flour roasted 3 to 4 Tbsp
Hung curd 1 cup
Cooking Oil 2 tsp
Butter for basting
Salt to taste
Chat masala as per taste
Onion rings, mint leaves and lemon slices for garnish.
METHOD :
1. In a muslin cloth hang some plain yogurt or curds to dry out its moisture, for around 4 to 5 hrs. Most recipes say 30 mins is enough but my experience is it needs 4 to 5 hours, else the marinade won't stick to the prawns properly and can be watery.
2. once hung curd is ready, Clean, Wash the prawns and slit them open to make a butterfly kind of shape as shown below.. Spread on a clean towel, paper to dry them out. Keep aside.
3. In a bowl mix together Oil, hung curd, lemon juice, turmeric, ginger-garlic paste, red chilli powder, salt and the tandoori masala and roasted gram flour paste. Check the taste. Adjust spice levels to suit your palate.
4. Mix well to form a very thick and homogenous paste. should look like the image below.
5. Apply this smooth and thick paste all over the prawns. Ensure to apply it such that each piece of prawns gets completely well coated with the marinade.
