Shrimp has become my go to protein source when I need something quick yet satisfying. I love how it takes on flavors beautifully while offering substantial protein that keeps me full. This Indian Spiced Shrimp Fry combines aromatic spices with succulent shrimp for a dish that feels special but requires minimal effort. The best part? It's ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Perfectly seasoned Indian shrimp fry ready to be enjoyed
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What You Need for Shrimp Fry
This recipe requires just a handful of ingredients that create magic together. Most are pantry staples if you cook Indian food regularly.
How Each Ingredient Works
Understanding the role each ingredient plays helps you appreciate this dish even more:
- Shrimp: Forms the protein base and absorbs all the spices beautifully
- Red chili powder: Provides heat and color
- Cumin powder: Adds earthy warmth and helps with digestion
- Garam masala: Brings complex depth and aroma
- Coriander powder: Contributes citrusy notes and balances other spices
- Ginger garlic paste: Creates a flavorful foundation and tenderizes the shrimp
- Salt: Enhances all other flavors
- Lemon juice: Brightens the dish and tenderizes the shrimp
- Curry leaves: Imparts a unique nutty flavor that makes this dish distinctly Indian
Preparing the Marination
The magic of this dish lies in its flavorful marination. I recommend letting the shrimp sit in this spice mixture for at least 10 minutes, though 30 minutes is ideal if you have time.
Instructions
The cooking process happens quickly, so keep all ingredients ready before you start.
- Combine all spices into a bowl.
- Keep it aside for 10-30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a pan
- Pour marinated shrimp on to the pan.
- Add curry leaves before shrimp on the pan or during.
- It takes about 5 minutes to cook through shrimp.
Top Tip
Don't overcrowd the pan - cook in batches if needed
Ingredient Substitutions
Don't have everything on hand? No problem:
- Ginger garlic paste: Equal parts minced fresh ginger and garlic works perfectly
- Shrimp: Use prawns or even chunks of firm white fish
- Red chili powder: Paprika with a pinch of cayenne works well
- Garam masala: Use a blend of cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, or even curry powder in a pinch
- Curry leaves: Though unique in flavor, you can use a bay leaf plus a squeeze of lime for a different but delicious result
Variations to Try
This versatile recipe can be adapted in several ways:
Coconut Shrimp Fry
Add 2 tablespoons of coconut milk and 1 tablespoon of shredded coconut during the final minute of cooking.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Fry
Add 1 tablespoon of butter and 2 extra minced garlic cloves when frying.
Tangy Tomato Shrimp
Add ¼ cup diced tomatoes and cook until they break down into a light sauce.
Equipment You Need
This recipe requires minimal equipment:
- A spatula for stirring
- A medium sized bowl for marination
- A pan or skillet (nonstick works best)
Storage and Reheating Tips
Shrimp fry tastes best fresh, but leftovers can be stored:
- Avoid microwaving: This can make the shrimp tough and rubbery
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
- Reheating: Warm gently in a pan with a tiny splash of water to prevent drying out
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Fry
After making this dish countless times, I've learned a few tricks:
- Pat the shrimp dry before marinating for better spice adhesion
- Don't overcrowd the pan - cook in batches if needed
- Watch closely as shrimp cooks quickly and overcooked shrimp becomes tough
- Adjust heat as needed - the spices should sizzle but not burn
- Finish with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice right before serving
Nutrition
One serving of Indian Shrimp Fry (No Onion), which is 1 cup (100g), contains 161 calories with 21g of protein, 1g of fiber and 1g of carbs.
FAQ
Shrimp turns from translucent to opaque and forms a C shape when fully cooked. This usually takes 4-5 minutes total.
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before marinating.
It has moderate heat that you can adjust by changing the amount of red chili powder.
It pairs beautifully with rice, naan, or even as a protein addition to salads. Great to balance your plates.
I recommend cooking it just before serving, but you can marinate the shrimp up to 8 hours in advance.
Add ¼ cup coconut milk or tomato puree during the final minute of cooking.
This Indian Spiced Shrimp Fry has become a regular in my weeknight rotation. The combination of convenience, flavor, and nutrition makes it hard to beat when I need something impressive with minimal effort.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Indian Shrimp Fry (No Onion):
Indian Shrimp Fry (No Onion)
Ingredients
For Marination:
- 200 g shrimp - deveined, no tails or heads
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste
- ½ teaspoon salt - adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For Frying:
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 6-8 curry leaves
Instructions
Marinate Shrimp:
- In a bowl, mix 200 g shrimp with ½ teaspoon red chili powder, ½ teaspoon cumin powder, ½ teaspoon garam masala, ½ teaspoon coriander powder, 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste, ½ teaspoon salt, and1 teaspoon lemon juice.
- Let it sit for 10-30 minutes.
Fry Shrimp:
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a pan. Add 6-8 curry leaves and let them splutter.
- Add shrimp and cook on medium heat for 4–5 minutes, flipping occasionally, until fully cooked and slightly crispy.
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