Sensational Seafood Masala: A Spicy Indian Delight

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of mixed seafood (prawns, squid, mussels)
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 2 onions, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger
  • 2 green chili peppers, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
  • 2 teaspoons of ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon of turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon of garam masala
  • 1 can (400g) of crushed tomatoes
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
  • 2 cups of cooked basmati rice for serving

Steps and instructions

  1. Rinse the seafood under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Set aside.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until they become translucent.
  3. Add the garlic, ginger, and green chili peppers to the pan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
  4. Add the cumin seeds, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala to the pan. Stir well to combine with the other ingredients. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices become fragrant.
  5. Add the crushed tomatoes to the pan. Stir well to combine with the other ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  6. Add the mixed seafood to the pan. Stir well to ensure the seafood is coated with the sauce. Cover the pan and let the seafood cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it is cooked through.
  7. Season with salt to taste.
  8. Serve the Seafood Masala over cooked basmati rice, garnished with fresh coriander leaves.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use different types of seafood such as shrimp, scallops, or fish fillets.
  • Add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added texture and flavor.
  • Replace the vegetable oil with ghee or coconut oil for a different taste.
  • Adjust the level of spice by adding more or fewer green chili peppers.
  • Experiment with different spice blends such as adding fenugreek or mustard seeds.
  • For a creamier version, add coconut milk or heavy cream to the sauce.
  • Include additional herbs and spices like curry leaves, cinnamon, or cardamom for extra aroma.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute the seafood with tofu or paneer.
  • Serve the dish with naan bread or roti instead of rice.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice or sprinkle some chaat masala for a tangy twist.

Recipe overview

Dive into the flavors of the Indian coast with our simple and delectable Seafood Masala recipe. This dish is a symphony of fresh seafood, including prawns, squid, and mussels, simmered in a fragrant, spicy tomato sauce. With key ingredients like green chili peppers, garam masala, turmeric, and coriander, you'll experience an explosion of rich and spicy flavors in every bite. The recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both weekday dinners and special occasions. In under an hour, your kitchen will be filled with the enticing aromas of simmering spices and cooked seafood. The Seafood Masala is served over fluffy basmati rice and garnished with fresh coriander leaves, adding a refreshing contrast to the robust flavors of the dish. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a wonderful way to explore the diverse world of Indian cuisine.

Common questions

  1. Can I use frozen seafood instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen seafood for this recipe. Make sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking and pat it dry with paper towels.
  2. Can I adjust the spice level? Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of green chili peppers or omit them altogether. Similarly, you can adjust the amount of garam masala to taste.
  3. Can I use a different type of rice? While basmati rice is traditionally used for serving this dish, you can substitute it with any type of rice you prefer.
  4. Can I add other vegetables to this dish? Certainly! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas to the recipe to enhance the flavors and add more texture.
  5. Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes, you can prepare the Seafood Masala ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pan - A large pan is needed to cook the seafood masala and to ensure all the ingredients fit comfortably.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board is necessary for chopping the onions, garlic, ginger, and chili peppers.
  • Knife - A knife is required for cutting and chopping the onions, garlic, ginger, and chili peppers.
  • Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are helpful for accurately measuring the spices needed for the recipe.
  • Spatula or wooden spoon - A spatula or wooden spoon is essential for stirring the ingredients while cooking the masala.
  • Paper towels - Paper towels are needed for patting dry the seafood before cooking.
  • Serving plates or bowls - Serving plates or bowls are necessary for serving the Seafood Masala.
  • Cooked basmati rice - Cooked basmati rice is needed for serving the Seafood Masala. It can be prepared separately.

Origin stories

Seafood Masala is a famous dish known for its rich and spicy flavors, hailing from the coastal regions of South India. The use of seafood is a testament to the region's long and enduring relationship with the sea, with fishing being a major occupation. Interestingly, the "Masala" in Seafood Masala is not a singular spice, but a melange of various spices ground together. Each household has its own unique blend of masala, leading to a wonderful diversity of flavors even within the same dish, depending on who is at the stove. The use of rice as a staple, and the pouring of the spicy and aromatic seafood masala over it, is a culinary ritual that brings comfort to many. This delightful dish is a true manifestation of India's rich culinary heritage, where the freshness of the sea meets the warmth of the spices.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.