Drawing from the rich culinary heritage of Bengal, this Prawn Malai Curry recipe elevates the traditional flavors with a twist of lemongrass, bringing a refreshing citrusy aroma that complements the sweetness of the coconut milk. Crafted to tantalize the senses, the dish boasts prawns that are tender and juicy, enveloped in a sauce that's creamy yet light, with hints of spices that dance on the palate. The addition of lemongrass not only adds depth to the dish but also introduces an element of surprise, making each bite a delightful discovery. Visually, the dish is a feast for the eyes, with its vibrant colors and elegant garnishing inviting you to dive in.

Ingredients

Serving Size: 4 servings

From Your Pantry:

• Ground turmeric: 1 teaspoon
• Chili powder: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1½ teaspoons
• Sugar: 1 teaspoon
• Peanut oil: 2 tablespoons
• Basmati rice: 2 cups

Additional Grocery Items Needed:

• Large prawns, cleaned and deveined: 1 pound
• Coconut milk: 14 ounces
• Lemongrass stalks, finely minced: 2
• Green chilies, slit: 2
• Fresh ginger, grated: 1 tablespoon
• Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish: ¼ cup
• Red chili flakes, for garnish: 1 teaspoon

Preparation

1. Marinate the Prawns: In a bowl, combine the prawns with turmeric, chili powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mix well and set aside for 20 minutes.
2. Cook the Rice: Rinse basmati rice until water runs clear. Cook rice according to package instructions, set aside to keep warm.
3. Prepare the Curry: In a large skillet, heat the peanut oil over medium heat. Add the marinated prawns and sauté until they turn pink, approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove prawns and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add minced lemongrass and grated ginger. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in coconut milk, add green chilies, remaining salt, and sugar. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Return the prawns to the skillet. Cover and simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Remove from heat, discard the green chilies, and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Expert Tips

• For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of garam masala to the curry.
• If lemongrass is hard to find, you can substitute with a teaspoon of lemongrass paste.
• Ensure not to overcook the prawns to maintain their juiciness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this exquisite Prawn Malai Curry over a bed of fluffy basmati rice, garnished with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of red chili flakes. Accompany with a side of naan bread or papadums for a complete dining experience. Enjoy this dish on a special occasion or a cozy night in, bringing a touch of Bengali elegance to your table.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 160mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g
• Allergens: Prawns, Peanut oil

We encourage you to share this recipe with friends and family, and don't hesitate to experiment with your own variations. Adding different spices or vegetables can make this dish uniquely yours while keeping the essence of this classic Bengali delicacy. Cooking is an adventure—enjoy the journey!