Delicious South African Prawn Curry Recipe: A Taste of Coastal Flavors

Written by Jessica Lopez.

6 REVIEWS

| 4.5 AVERAGE

Published at 05-10-2024

Edited on 07-02-2025 | 7:37 AM

Dinner Recipes

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: South African

Difficulty: Easy

Servings

4-6 servings

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

30 minutes

Total Time

45 minutes

Fat

22g

Protein

25g

Carbohydrates

10g

Calories

350 kcal

Welcome to an exciting culinary journey that celebrates the vibrant flavors of South Africa! If you’re looking for a dish that combines fresh seafood with aromatic spices, this prawn curry recipe is just what you need. South African cuisine is renowned for its rich diversity, influenced by various cultures and traditions. Prawn curry, often enjoyed along the coastal regions, is a beloved dish that brings together succulent prawns and a medley of spices that will tantalize your taste buds.

This recipe not only showcases the freshness of prawns but also highlights the warmth and zest of South African cooking. With ingredients like coconut milk, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, you’ll create a dish that is both comforting and exotic. Best of all, it's easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this prawn curry will impress everyone at the table. Serve it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Get ready to indulge in a meal that embodies the spirit of South African coastal cuisine.

Let’s dive into this delightful prawn curry recipe and bring the flavors of South Africa right to your kitchen!.

Measurement Units of prawn curry recipe south africa

500g prawns, deveined and shelled

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon ginger, grated

2 medium tomatoes, chopped

1 tablespoon curry powder

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1 teaspoon coriander powder

1 can (400ml) coconut milk

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

1-2 green chilies, slit (optional)

Juice of 1 lime

Step by Step Instructions For prawn curry recipe south africa

Step - 1

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. You will need fresh prawns, coconut milk, onions, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, curry powder, turmeric, chili powder, fresh coriander, lime juice, and salt. Having everything in place will make the cooking process smoother.

Step - 2

Next, prepare your prawns by peeling and deveining them. If you're using frozen prawns, ensure they are fully thawed. Setting them aside, you can now focus on the aromatic base of your curry.

Step - 3

Chop one medium onion finely, and mince two cloves of garlic along with a thumb-sized piece of ginger. These will form the flavorful base of your curry, so make sure they are well-prepared.

Step - 4

In a large, deep pan or pot, heat two tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. This step is crucial as it enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Step - 5

Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan, stirring them in with the onions. Cook for an additional two minutes until fragrant, ensuring not to let them burn. The aroma should start filling your kitchen at this point.

Step - 6

Now, it’s time to add the spices. Sprinkle in one tablespoon of curry powder, half a teaspoon of turmeric, and half a teaspoon of chili powder. Stir well, allowing the spices to toast a bit, which will release their essential oils and deepen their flavors.

Step - 7

Incorporate diced tomatoes into the mixture, stirring well to combine. Allow the tomatoes to soften and break down, which should take about five minutes. This creates a rich base for your curry.

Step - 8

Pour in a cup of coconut milk, stirring continuously to blend it with the spices and tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Don't rush this step; the longer it simmers, the richer the sauce will be.

Step - 9

After the sauce has thickened slightly, gently add the prepared prawns into the pot. Stir to coat them well in the sauce, and cook for about five to seven minutes until the prawns are pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.

Step - 10

Finally, finish your prawn curry with a splash of fresh lime juice and a handful of chopped coriander for brightness. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed. Serve your delicious prawn curry hot with rice or naan, and enjoy the delightful flavors of South Africa!

My Review On prawn curry recipe south africa

If you’re craving a taste of South Africa, the prawn curry recipe is a must-try! This dish is a vibrant mix of succulent prawns simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce that's bursting with flavors. The combination of spices, including curry powder, turmeric, and fresh coriander, creates an unforgettable taste experience. What I love most about this prawn curry is how easy it is to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Pair it with fragrant basmati rice or warm naan bread, and you've got a meal that’s sure to impress. The best part? This recipe is versatile; you can adjust the spice levels to suit your palate. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this prawn curry will transport you straight to the shores of South Africa with its deliciously bold flavors. Don't miss out on this culinary adventure—it's a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Frequently Asked Questions About prawn curry recipe south africa

What type of prawns should I use for a South African prawn curry?

For a South African prawn curry, large, fresh prawns like tiger or king prawns are ideal. They have a firm texture and sweet flavor that holds up well in curries. Ensure they are deveined and shelled for ease of cooking and eating.

Can I use frozen prawns for this curry recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen prawns, but ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. Frozen prawns may release extra water, so adjust the cooking time and spices accordingly to maintain the curry's flavor and consistency.

What spices are essential for a South African prawn curry?

Essential spices include curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Fresh ingredients like ginger, garlic, and chili peppers also enhance the flavor. Adjust the spice levels based on your heat preference for a personalized taste.

How can I make my prawn curry less spicy?

To reduce spiciness, use less chili powder or fresh chilies. You can also add coconut milk or yogurt to the curry, which will mellow the heat while adding creaminess and richness to the dish.

What can I serve with prawn curry?

Prawn curry pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti. You can also serve it with a side of fresh salad or pickles to balance the flavors and add a refreshing contrast to the dish.

How long does it take to cook prawns in a curry?

Prawns cook quickly, usually within 5-7 minutes. Overcooking can make them tough, so add them towards the end of the cooking process and simmer until they turn pink and opaque for the best texture.

Can I add vegetables to my prawn curry?

Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas can be added for extra nutrition and flavor. Add them according to their cooking times; firmer vegetables should go in earlier, while leafy greens can be added last.

Is prawn curry suitable for meal prep?

Yes, prawn curry is great for meal prep! It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the prawns when serving.

What is the origin of South African prawn curry?

South African prawn curry is influenced by Indian cuisine, particularly from the coastal regions. It reflects the country's diverse culinary heritage, combining local ingredients with traditional Indian spices for a unique flavor profile.

Can I make prawn curry vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute prawns with tofu or chickpeas and use coconut milk for creaminess. Adjust spices and cooking times accordingly to create a delicious plant-based curry that retains the essence of the original dish.

Reviews of prawn curry recipe south africa

Thandiwe Mkhize

This prawn curry was a hit at our family dinner! The spices blended beautifully, and the prawns were perfectly cooked. I served it with rice, and everyone went for seconds. Definitely making this again! Highly recommend!

★★★★★

Sipho Nkosi

I enjoyed making this prawn curry, but I found it a bit too spicy for my taste. The flavors were rich, and the prawns were tender. Next time, I'll tone down the chili. Overall, a solid recipe that I would try again.

★★★★

Lindiwe Dlamini

This recipe was easy to follow and turned out delicious! The coconut milk added a lovely creaminess. I paired it with some naan bread, and it was perfect. My friends loved it too. Will definitely be adding this to my regular meals!

Mpho Khumalo

I was a bit hesitant to try this prawn curry, but it exceeded my expectations! The combination of spices was fantastic, and it had just the right amount of heat. I will be sharing this recipe with my friends. Great job!

Zanele Mthembu

The prawn curry was good, but I felt it needed a bit more seasoning. I added some extra garlic and ginger, which improved the flavor. Overall, a decent recipe that I might tweak next time for more depth.

Kabelo Modise

I loved this prawn curry! The recipe was straightforward, and the end result was full of flavor. I served it with basmati rice, and it was a perfect match. My family devoured it. Will definitely make it again soon!