Spicy Pepper Shrimp Masala

Are you enjoying the beautiful Spring weather? We caught a lucky break this weekend, sun, no humidity and a gentle breeze. For you allergy sufferers, I hope you get to enjoy at least a bit of the beautiful weather.

Green Earth

Tip 1: Take the bus to work one day a week. or telecommute if the option is available.

Tip 2: Run the washer or dish washer only when full.

Shrimp is one of our favorite items and though kids are not too fond of spicy but with shrimp they seem to ignore the spice. Pepper gives any dish the peppery spicy taste clearing our sinuses but without any of the stomach burning after effects of the red chiles. Unlike regular potatoes which are starchy and fall apart, Chinese potatoes retain their shape and give some crunch. This is a slightly dry gravy perfect with rice. Shrimp cooks very quickly and to avoid getting them rubbery, they should not be overcooked.

Spicy Pepper Shrimp Masala
1. 10-15 Medium sized shrimp + 1 cup chinese potatoes (optional)
2. 1/2 Red Onion sliced and cut in half
3. 10-15 Pearl Onions sliced
4. curry leaves 10-15
5. cumin seeds
6. 1 tsp turmeric powder
7. 1 tsp red chili powder
8. 1 roma tomato chopped fine
9. 2 tsp tomato paste
9. salt
10. 1/2 tbsp oil

Marinate
Clean and wash the shrimp and marinate with chili powder and salt and set aside for 1/2 - 1 hour

For the Paste
1. 6-7 garlic cloves
2. 1 inch piece of ginger
3. 1 tbsp coriander seeds
4. 1/4 -1/2 tbsp peppercorns (adjust to taste)
5. 2 red chiles
6. 1 tbsp grated fresh coconut

Saute the garlic and ginger and set aside. Saute the rest of the ingredients and blend to a past with the minimum amount of water.

Method
1. Heat oil in a wok, when hot add the cumin and curry leaves
2. Add the onions and saute till it starts to turn slightly brown.
3. Add the shrimp and saute for about 3-4 minutes till they turn slightly brown. Set them aside
4.Add the chinese potatoes if using and saute for a few minutes (I used frozen ones which are precooked, if using fresh cook them first)
5. Add the ground masala paste and saute for a few minutes, add the tomatoes and tomato paste and continue to saute till they start to leave the sides. (about 8-10 minutes)
6. Now add the shrimp and mix till they are coated well. Turn off heat.


Other Shrimp Dishes
Shrimp Biryani
Shrimp Curry with Peas and Chinese Potatoes