Jeddah Style Shrimp Masala
A rich and aromatic shrimp curry with a creamy tomato-based sauce, infused with a blend of Saudi spices. This dish is a popular seafood preparation in the coastal city of Jeddah.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Shrimp(peeled and deveined)
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 400 g Tomatoes(crushed or pureed)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil or Ghee
- 1/2 cup Heavy cream or Coconut milk
- to taste Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 1.5 tsp Coriander powder
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 1 tsp Garam masala
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp Chili powder(adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges(for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat oil or ghee in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 2
Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 3
Stir in the coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until spices are fragrant.
⏱️ 30 seconds - 4
Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 5
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the sauce. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp.
⏱️ 5 minutes💡 Tip: Shrimp cook very quickly; overcooking will make them tough. - 6
Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Heat through gently for 1-2 minutes, but do not boil.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 7
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve hot with lemon wedges.
💡 Tip: A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- ✓If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the amount of chili powder.
- ✓Coconut milk provides a dairy-free option and a slightly different flavor profile.
- ✓This dish pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or Arabic bread.
🔄 Variations
- Add a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the crushed tomatoes for a deeper tomato flavor.
- Include a few curry leaves during the onion sautéing stage for an extra layer of aroma.
- For a touch of sweetness, add a teaspoon of sugar to the sauce.