Turmeric Shrimp /Prawn Rice Recipe

This coconut and turmeric prawn rice is the quickest one-pot meal you can make in 20 minutes. It uses fresh prawns or shrimps, turmeric, coconut milk, and a few spices. This rice is a meal on its own or can be served on the side with other main courses.

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Turmeric is a bright yellow spice that comes from the turmeric plant. It is commonly used in Asian and Middle Eastern cooking and is known for its earthy flavor and vibrant color. Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is believed to have various health benefits.

In this shrimp pilaf recipe, turmeric is added for both flavor and color. It adds a warm, slightly bitter flavor to the dish, which complements the sweetness of the coconut milk and the richness of the shrimp. Additionally, turmeric gives the rice a beautiful golden color, making the dish visually appealing.

Why is this the best recipe?

• Rich and Creamy Texture: Using coconut milk instead of broth gives the rice a rich, creamy texture and a subtly sweet flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Bold and Flavorful Spices: The combination of curry powder, cumin, coriander, and turmeric adds layers of flavor and aromatic complexity to the dish.
• Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Pan-frying the shrimp separately ensures they are cooked to perfection—tender, juicy, and flavorful—without overcooking.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the red bell pepper and fresh cilantro make this dish visually appealing and perfect for serving at dinner parties or special occasions.

Ingredients and substitutes

• Prawns – I use frozen prawns – they take just about 10 to 20 minutes to thaw. You can use shrimps just as well.
• Ginger and garlic – Onion, ginger, and garlic are an absolute must when making curry. Hence, you will rarely find a recipe without these. So, make sure you buy fresh ginger and garlic for your Indian curries. They will make a huge difference. 
• Onion – I love using sweet red onions and shallots in my rice recipes. But you can also use any onions you have on hand.
• Whole spices – The whole spices add a warm aroma and flavor without making this dish spicy. Do not add too much, as it can be overpowering as well.
• Cilantro – I love using fresh cilantro, but parsley works just as well.

Step-by-step: Shrimp/Prawn Rice Pilaf

For the prawns

• Clean the prawns or shrimp, and pat them dry. Then, marinate them with salt, pepper, and spices (turmeric, paprika, coriander, cumin). Set aside.
  Pro tip – Make sure the prawns are dry. Otherwise, they will stew rather than sear.
• To a large skillet, add the oil and the marinated prawns. Sear on medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  Pro tip – Prawns need only 2 to 3 minutes to sear as they will continue to cook in the rice. If overcooked, they will become chewy.

For the rice

• Wash and soak the rice in cold water for 30 minutes. Then, drain and set aside.
• In the same skillet, add the remaining oil. Sauté the onions until translucent. Then, add the grated ginger and garlic. Followed by the spices (turmeric, coriander, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper.
  Pro tip – Keep the heat to medium-low when you add the spices, as we do not want them to burn.

• Add the drained rice, saute for 2 to 3 minutes until lightly toasted. Next, add coconut milk, herbs, green peas, cilantro, and stock/broth. Then, return the prawns to the pan, making sure to distribute them evenly inside the rice.
• Let it come to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and cover the pan. Cook on a low simmer for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, turn the heat off and keep covered for another 10 minutes.
  Pro tip – Let the rice continue to cook in its residual heat for 10 minutes. This will ensure a light and fluffy rice.

• As soon as the stock comes to a boil, reduce the heat to a low simmer and cover the pan with a lid.
• Finally, add the shrimp to the rice along with the fresher herbs (cilantro and dill). Fluff the rice with a fork to ensure everything is well combined.
• Sprinkle more chopped cilantro before serving.

• Chicken with Rice Pilaf or classic Rice Pilaf
• Cajun Chicken with Rice
• Turmeric Rice with Chicken and Peas
• Coconut Turmeric Rice
• Quick One-Pot Vegetable Rice
• Turmeric Cauliflower Rice Pilaf or Mustard Dill Cauliflower Rice Pilaf
• See all rice recipes

Frequently asked questions

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