South African · beginner
South African Durban Spiced Prawn Curry With Coconut Milk
Succulent prawns seared with Durban curry spices, fragrant curry leaves, garlic, and simmered in a creamy tomato coconut gravy.
- PREP TIME
- 15 min
- COOK TIME
- 20 min
- SERVES
- 4
Good things
start in the kitchen.
LET’S MAKE IT
Step by step
- 01
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- 02
Add chopped yellow onion and fresh curry leaves; cook for 4 minutes until onions soften and leaves release aroma.
- 03
Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and Durban curry powder, cooking for 1 minute to bloom spices.
- 04
Pour in crushed tomatoes and coconut milk, stirring well to create a smooth reddish gravy.
- 05
Bring gravy to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 6 minutes to meld flavors.
- 06
Add raw prawns and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until prawns turn bright pink and opaque.
A LITTLE KITCHEN KNOW-HOW
Blooming Spices
Frying dry ground spices in warm oil before adding liquid extracts fat-soluble essential oils for maximum aromatic depth.
Notes from the kitchen
- Do not overcook prawns; remove from heat as soon as they curl into a tight C shape and turn opaque.
- Durban curry powder provides a balanced red color and vibrant warmth without harsh heat.
- Original home-cooking adaptation inspired by South African; regional versions vary.
- Use halal-certified meat, poultry, stock, sauces, cheese and other processed ingredients. Check labels and avoid cross-contamination. Recipe screening is not halal certification.