Shrimp Masala(Pakistan)
A flavorful Pakistani shrimp masala with aromatic spices, coconut milk, and tender shrimp, perfect for those who enjoy bold, spicy seafood dishes. Great for a hearty, comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind together the garlic, ginger, coriander, cumin, and red pepper to form a paste.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan and add the sliced onions.
- Saute the onions until translucent, then add the ground spice paste and cook until the oil separates, about 15 minutes on low heat.
- Strain the soaked coconut to extract the coconut milk.
- Add the coconut milk to the onion and spice mixture, bring to a boil, then simmer over medium-low heat for 15 minutes.
- Add the shrimp to the sauce and simmer until they are cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using fresh herbs like cilantro or mint as a garnish. If you're short on time, pre-made coconut milk can substitute for fresh coconut, though the flavor may vary. Adjust the red pepper to your spice preference, especially if you enjoy dishes like Shrimp Curry With Coconut Milk, which can also provide inspiration for flavor adjustments.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp masala over steamed basmati rice or with naan for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of mixed vegetable raita or a simple cucumber salad to balance the spice. For a delightful twist, consider serving with a side of Coconut Shrimp With Red Curry Sauce for a unique seafood experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp masala in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to maintain moisture and prevent sticking. Avoid boiling, as this can make the shrimp rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Masala(Pakistan) contains roughly 1128 calories, with 16g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 77g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (134% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (112% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1553mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking. This may take a few hours in the refrigerator or a quick soak in cold water. Adjust cooking time slightly if using larger shrimp.
What can I substitute for fresh coconut?
If fresh coconut is unavailable, you can use canned coconut milk or shredded unsweetened coconut. If using shredded coconut, soak it in warm water for about 30 minutes before blending to mimic the texture and flavor of fresh coconut.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, shrimp masala is excellent for meal prep. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even tastier the next day. Just be mindful of not overcooking the shrimp during reheating, as they can become tough if reheated too long.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).