Easy Dried Prawns Recipe Kerala Style (Unakka Chemeen Fry)

Dried prawns, also known as Unakka Chemeen Fry in Malayalam, hold a special place in Kerala’s culinary traditions. While the aroma and taste of dried seafood may be an acquired preference for some, for many, it’s a nostalgic delicacy that evokes memories of coastal kitchens and traditional recipes. The process of salting and drying prawns not only preserves them but also enhances their flavor, making them a versatile ingredient in many dishes.

This Dried Prawns Recipe Kerala Style, known as Unakka Chemeen Fry, is a simple yet flavorful preparation. It combines the smokiness of dried prawns with the sweetness of caramelized onions, the tanginess of tomatoes, and the earthy aroma of curry leaves. Cooked in coconut oil, this dish is a true representation of Kerala’s rich culinary heritage. Perfect as a side dish with rice or even as a snack on its own, this Dried Prawns Recipe Kerala Style will surely win over anyone who loves bold and authentic flavors.

Easy Dried Prawns Recipe Kerala Style (Unakka Chemeen Fry)

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Kerala-style dried prawns fry, you will need:

1. Dried prawns (unakka chemeen) – 200 gm (heads removed and cleaned well)
2. Red onion – 2 medium-sized, finely sliced
3. Garlic – 3 cloves, crushed
4. Tomato – 1 small, deseeded and finely sliced
5. Red chili powder – ½ tsp
6. Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp
7. Salt – to taste
8. Curry leaves – A handful
9. Coconut oil – 2 tbsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dried Prawns

Before cooking, ensure that the dried prawns are cleaned thoroughly:

Remove the heads and any impurities.

Rinse the prawns in water a couple of times to remove excess salt and any sand particles. Drain and set aside.

2. Heat the Coconut Oil

In a heavy-bottomed pan or skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil over medium heat. Coconut oil is essential for authentic Kerala flavors.

3. Sauté the Onions

Add the finely sliced red onions to the hot oil. Sauté them until they turn light golden brown. This step is crucial as caramelized onions add sweetness to balance the saltiness of the dried prawns.

4. Add Garlic, Curry Leaves, and Tomatoes

Once the onions are golden, add crushed garlic and a handful of curry leaves to the pan. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the sliced tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until they soften.

5. Add Spices

Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of red chili powder and ¼ teaspoon of turmeric powder. Mix well to coat the onion-tomato mixture with the spices.

6. Toss in the Dried Prawns

Now, add the cleaned dried prawns to the pan. Stir everything together so that the prawns are coated with the spice mixture. Sauté on low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

7. Serve Hot

Remove from heat and transfer your Unakka Chemeen Fry to a serving dish. Serve hot as a side dish with steamed rice or enjoy it on its own as a flavorful snack.

This Kerala-style dried prawns recipe is a celebration of bold flavors and traditional cooking techniques. The combination of salty, smoky dried prawns with sweet caramelized onions, earthy curry leaves, and aromatic spices creates an irresistible dish that will transport you straight to Kerala’s coastal kitchens.

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If you’re someone who loves experimenting with unique ingredients or simply enjoys authentic regional dishes, this Unakka Chemeen Fry is a must-try! Plus, if you’re looking for high-quality dried prawns to recreate this recipe at home, check out our store for premium-grade dried seafood products delivered straight to your doorstep.

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