Simple Dried Prawns Recipe Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan cuisine is renowned for its bold and aromatic flavors, and Dried Prawns Recipe Sri Lanka, particularly the beloved Isso Karawala (Dried Salted Shrimps Stir Fry), is a true testament to this culinary heritage. This traditional dish combines the smoky, salty taste of dried salted shrimps with a medley of spices, onions, and a tangy touch of lime or tomato. Perfect as a side dish with steamed rice or as a flavorful snack, this recipe showcases the unique umami-packed flavor of dried prawns. For seafood lovers looking to explore authentic Sri Lankan dishes, this Sri Lankan dried prawns recipe is an absolute must-try!

Sri Lankan Dried Salted Shrimps Stir Fry (Isso Karawala)

Ingredients

1. Dried salted shrimps (Isso Karawala) – 500g
2. Onions – 2, finely sliced
3. Garlic – 3 cloves, chopped
4. Ginger – Small piece (2–3 cm), finely chopped
5. Dried red chili flakes – 1–1½ tbsp
6. Cinnamon stick – ½ stick, crushed
7. Cardamom seeds – 4
8. Cloves – 3
9. Tomato – ¼ of a medium-sized tomato
10. Lime juice – From ½ small lime or ¼ medium lime
11. Curry leaves – Several sprigs
12. Salt – A pinch (optional)
13. Cooking oil – As necessary
14. Lukewarm water – As necessary

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dried Salted Shrimps

• Place the dried salted shrimps in a sieve and rinse them gently under lukewarm water to remove excess salt.
• Let the water drain completely. You can leave the head portions intact, but feel free to remove the antennae for a cleaner look.

Step 2: Lightly Fry the Shrimps

• Heat enough oil in a pan to submerge the shrimps.
• Add the cleaned shrimps and stir fry on low-to-medium heat until they are dehydrated again. The goal is to remove absorbed water without fully cooking them.
• Remove the shrimps from the pan and discard the used oil.

Step 3: Prepare the Aromatic Base

• In a clean pan, heat 2–3 tablespoons of fresh cooking oil over moderate heat.
• Add garlic, ginger, curry leaves, cardamom seeds, cloves, and crushed cinnamon stick. Stir fry for about 1 minute until aromatic.

Step 4: Cook the Onions

• Add sliced onions to the pan and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir continuously to prevent burning.
• Add a pinch of salt to season the onions lightly.

Step 5: Combine Shrimps with Aromatics

• Add the prepared shrimps to the onion mixture and stir fry for about 5 minutes on moderate heat.

Step 6: Add Chili Flakes and Tomatoes

• Lower the heat slightly and add dried red chili flakes to the mixture. Stir rigorously for about a minute until the oil turns reddish-golden from the chili flakes.
• Add chopped tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes while stirring continuously.

Step 7: Finish with Lime Juice

• Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir well for about 30 seconds while frying on low heat. Adjust lime or tomato quantities based on your taste preference.

Serving Suggestions

This flavorful Sri Lankan dried shrimp stir fry pairs beautifully with steamed rice or can be served alongside other curries for a complete meal experience.

The bold flavors of this Sri Lankan-style dried salted shrimp stir fry make it an unforgettable dish that’s perfect for seafood enthusiasts looking to try something unique and traditional. The combination of tangy lime, spicy chili flakes, aromatic spices, and umami-packed dried shrimp creates an explosion of flavors in every bite.

To make this dish at home, use high-quality dried prawns from Spicy Finds.