Tandoori Prawn Skewers – Indian Starter

Tandoori King Prawn Skewers are a delightful treat for seafood enthusiasts, offering a perfect combination of smoky aroma, juicy texture, and bold flavors. This traditional Indian dish features large, succulent prawns marinated in a rich and flavorful blend of yogurt, garlic, ginger, and an array of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The marinade not only enhances the natural sweetness of the prawns but also infuses them with a tantalizing depth of flavor.

Once marinated, the prawns are skewered and grilled to perfection, either over an open flame, on a barbecue, or using a stovetop griddle. The high heat creates a beautiful char on the outside while keeping the prawns tender and juicy on the inside. The smoky essence from the grilling process enhances the dish, making it irresistible.

For the best experience, serve these flavorful skewers hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro and a generous squeeze of lemon juice for an extra zesty kick. Pair them with cooling mint chutney, a fresh salad, or warm naan to complete the meal. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, Tandoori King Prawn Skewers bring a burst of authentic Indian flavors to any dining table.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 7 minutes
Marination Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes

Ingredients:

• 12 large uncooked king prawns
• 1 fresh chilli, finely
• ½ tsp chilli powder
• 3 garlic cloves
• 3cm ginger
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 lemon, juice

For Marinate:

• 1½ mustard oil
• 1 tsp chilli powder
• 100g yoghurt
• 1 tsp garam masala (a traditional aromatic spice blend used in Indian cooking)
• 2 cardamoms, seeds crushed
• 2 tsp dried fenugreek (kasoori methi)
• ½ tsp salt
• handful of coriander, finely chopped

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Paste – Crush the ginger and garlic using a pestle and mortar until a smooth paste forms.
2. Season the Prawns – Place the prawns in a large bowl and sprinkle with chilli powder, salt, lemon juice, and the crushed ginger-garlic paste. Set aside.
3. Marinate the Prawns – Blend all the marinade ingredients together, coat the prawns evenly, and refrigerate for as long as possible, or proceed to cooking immediately.
4. Cook the Prawns – Griddle or Barbecue Method – Thread the marinated prawns onto skewers and cook on a griddle or barbecue for 5-6 minutes until they turn pink and are just cooked through.Tandoor Method –

   Preheat the tandoor and cook the skewered prawns for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until they develop a slight char and are cooked through.

5. Serve – Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the prawns and garnish with chopped coriander before serving.

Serving Instructions:
Arrange the cooked prawns on a serving plate. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over them and garnish with chopped coriander. Serve hot with mint chutney (green sauce), a side salad, or warm naan bread for a delicious meal.