Steamed Banana Leaf Prawns with Tamarind & Coconut: An Aromatic Indian Delight
1 hour 20 minutes
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About Steamed Banana Leaf Prawns with Tamarind & Coconut: An Aromatic Indian Delight
Transport your taste buds to India with these incredible Steamed Banana Leaf Prawns! Imagine succulent prawns marinated in fragrant spices, then wrapped in a vibrant paste of tamarind leaves, coconut, chilies, and aromatic herbs.The banana leaves impart an earthy aroma while steaming, locking in moisture and creating a symphony of flavors. This dish is a true culinary adventure.Serve with fluffy rice or warm Indian bread for a complete and utterly satisfying meal. You won't soon forget this taste of India!
Recipe Time & More
Prep1 hour
Cook20 minutes
Total1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 250 gm Prawns deveined, medium size
- 1/4 tsp Chili Powder
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric Powder
- Salt to taste
For the Tamarind-Coconut Paste
- 3/4 cup Tamarind Leaves
- 1/2 cup Coconut grated
- 6 Chilies green
- 5 Shallots
- 2 clove Garlic
- 2 tbsp Coconut Oil
- Salt to taste
For Assembling & Steaming
- Banana Leaves for steaming
Instructions
- Wash and clean the prawns, ensuring they are deveined.
- In a bowl, combine the prawns, chili powder, turmeric powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and marinate for 15-30 minutes. This allows the prawns to absorb the flavors of the spices.
- In a mixer or food processor, grind the tamarind leaves, grated coconut, green chilies, shallots, garlic, coconut oil, and salt. Grind to a smooth paste without adding any water. The coconut oil helps create a smooth, emulsified paste.
- Combine the tamarind-coconut paste with the marinated prawns and mix well to coat thoroughly.
- Cut the banana leaves into squares large enough to wrap a few prawns. Briefly heat both sides of the banana leaves over a medium flame. This softens them and prevents tearing when folding.
- Place 3-5 marinated prawns in the center of each banana leaf square. Fold the leaves to create a packet and secure by tying with the banana leaf stem or kitchen twine.
- Bring water to a boil in a steamer. Place the prawn packets in the steamer tray, cover, and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until the prawns are cooked through and opaque.
- Remove the steamed prawn packets from the steamer and serve hot with rice, millets, or Indian bread.
Recipe Notes
Expert Tips
- For a richer flavor, consider using bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless, skinless breasts.
- Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less chili powder and cayenne pepper.
- If you don't have fresh cilantro, you can substitute with parsley or omit it altogether.
Storage Instructions
- Store leftover chicken chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Recipe Nutrition
Calories: 275kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 21gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 134mgSodium: 407mgPotassium: 375mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 51IUVitamin C: 17mgCalcium: 133mgIron: 1mg
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Such a beautiful dish! Can’t wait to try it.
This looks so good! Appreciate the share.
This looks divine! Can’t wait to make it.
Very innovative..
Just wow…