30-Minute Spicy Shrimp Masala

4.96 from 46 votes

30-Minute Spicy Shrimp Masala

Learn how to make a quick and easy spicy shrimp masala that’s perfect to serve with rice or with warm naan. It’s an Indian inspired prawn masala recipe that’s sure to please!

Prep Time10

Cook Time20

Total Time30

Course: 30 Minute Meals, Fish & Seafood, pescatarian

Servings:

Calories: 247kcal

Author: Marzia

Equipment

Cast Iron Skillet

Ingredients

¼ cup oil
3 roma tomatoes diced
1 tablespoon garlic paste
2 tablespoon grated ginger
1 jalapeno seeded and minced
⅓ cup water
½ teaspoon coriander powder
½ teaspoon turmeric
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1½ teaspoon cumin powder
16 ounces shrimp peeled and deveined*
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon fenugreek leaves crushed between fingers
½ teaspoon garam masala
2 teaspoons chaat masala*
chopped cilantro
Prepared basmati rice or naan for serving

Instructions

make the masala: Heat the oil over a large sauté over medium-high heat. Carefully add the tomatoes, so the oil doesn't splatter. Stir the tomatoes around and allow them to cook for several minutes until they cook down into a thick paste, about 8-10 minutes.
season: Add the garlic paste, ginger paste, and jalapenos and let cook for 1 minute or until nice and fragrant. Add the seasonings: coriander, turmeric, red pepper flakes, and cumin. Stir the masala and add the water so it doesn't burn.
cook the shrimp: Allow the water to dry up, about 5 minutes and add the shrimp. Let cook for 2-3 minutes stirring so the shrimp are coated with the tomato masala.
finish it up: Season with ½ teaspoon salt, fenugreek leaves, garam masala, chaat masala, turn the stove off and add the lemon juice. Stir the shrimp masala and decorate with chopped cilantro. Serve warm with or naan!

Notes

To cut the spice a bit, you can use less red pepper flakes and fewer jalapeno peppers.
Chaat masala is optional for this recipe however it does give it that true restaurant-style masala flavor!
You can swap the shrimp for boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breast pieces. The chicken will take a bit longer to cook through than the shrimp, but it’ll be just as delicious!

Nutrition