Prawn Malai Curry is a beloved Bengali dish known for its creamy coconut gravy and tender prawns. The word malai refers to the rich texture created by using coconut milk. This dish is mildly spiced, slightly sweet, and full of flavor. Best enjoyed with steamed basmati rice, it’s a comforting meal that feels both special and homely. This recipe serves 4.
Ingredients
For the Prawns:
500g prawns (cleaned and deveined)
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
Salt to taste
1 tablespoon mustard oil or vegetable oil
For the Curry:
1 large onion, finely chopped or blended
1 teaspoon ginger paste
1 teaspoon garlic paste
2–3 green chilies, slit
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
½ teaspoon red chili powder (optional for more heat)
1 cup thick coconut milk
½ cup water
Salt to taste
1–2 tablespoons mustard oil (or vegetable oil)
1 teaspoon sugar
Whole spices: 2 green cardamoms, 1 bay leaf, 1 small cinnamon stick, 2 cloves
Instructions
1. Marinate the Prawns
Rub the prawns with turmeric and salt. Let them rest for 10–15 minutes.
2. Sear the Prawns
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a pan. Lightly fry the prawns for about 1 minute per side until just pink. Remove and set aside. Avoid overcooking—they’ll finish in the curry.
3. Start the Curry Base
In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Add the whole spices and let them sizzle for a few seconds. Add the onion and cook until golden and soft. Add ginger and garlic paste and cook for 2 minutes until the raw smell is gone.
4. Add Spices and Coconut Milk
Stir in turmeric and chili powder. Add sugar and salt. Pour in the coconut milk and water, stir well, and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add Prawns to the Gravy
Slide the prawns back into the pan along with green chilies. Let everything simmer together for 4–5 minutes until the prawns are tender and the gravy thickens slightly.
6. Serve
Serve hot with steamed basmati rice. Garnish with fresh green chili or a few drops of mustard oil for an authentic touch.
Tips for Best Flavor
Use mustard oil for the signature Bengali aroma
Add a splash of lime juice just before serving for balance
You can blend the onion for a smoother, silkier curry
Prawn Malai Curry is rich, delicate, and gently spiced.
