ചെമ്മീൻ തോരൻ | Chemmeen Thoran - Easy Recipe | Prawns Thoran - Kerala side dish for rice

Introduction

In this tutorial, you will learn how to prepare Chemmeen Thoran, a traditional Kerala dish featuring prawns, grated coconut, and aromatic spices. This easy recipe is perfect as a side dish for rice and brings together a delightful combination of flavors that highlight coastal Kerala cuisine.

Step 1: Gather the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients ready:

• 250 gm Prawns (Chemmeen)
• 2 Tablespoons Coconut Oil (വെളിച്ചെണ്ണ)
• ¼ Teaspoon Mustard Seeds (കടുക്)
• 1 Inch Piece Ginger (Chopped)
• 6 Cloves Garlic (Chopped)
• 1 Green Chilli (Chopped)
• 15 Shallots (Chopped)
• 2 Sprigs Curry Leaves (കറിവേപ്പില)
• ¼ Teaspoon Turmeric Powder (മഞ്ഞള്‍പൊടി)
• 1½ Teaspoon Chilli Powder (മുളകുപൊടി)
• ½ + ¼ Teaspoon Salt (ഉപ്പ്)
• 1 Cup Grated Coconut (തേങ്ങ ചിരണ്ടിയത്)

Step 2: Prepare the Prawns

• Clean the prawns thoroughly and remove the shells and veins.
• Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure they are not watery when cooked.

Step 3: Cook the Prawns

• Heat coconut oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
• Stir in chopped ginger, garlic, and green chili. Sauté until fragrant.
• Add the shallots and curry leaves, cooking until the shallots are translucent.

Step 4: Add Spices and Prawns

• Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
• Add the cleaned prawns to the pan and stir to coat them in the spices.
• Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the prawns turn pink and are fully cooked.

Step 5: Incorporate Grated Coconut

• Once the prawns are cooked, add the grated coconut to the pan.
• Mix everything well, allowing the coconut to combine with the prawns and spices.
• Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

• Taste the dish and adjust salt or spices as needed.
• Remove from heat and serve hot with steamed rice.

Conclusion

You have successfully prepared Chemmeen Thoran, a flavorful Kerala dish that highlights the freshness of prawns and the richness of coconut. This dish is a perfect companion for rice, making it an ideal addition to any meal. Enjoy your culinary creation and consider exploring more traditional recipes to enhance your cooking repertoire!