Nkumba ndi Mpunga (Shrimp and Rice)
A flavorful and comforting dish featuring plump shrimp cooked with aromatic spices and mixed with fluffy rice. This dish highlights the use of readily available ingredients and the Malawian love for rice as a staple.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Shrimp(peeled and deveined)
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger(freshly grated)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 2 tablespoons Curry powder
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- 3 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 4 cups Water or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 0.25 cup Cilantro(fresh, chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the rice and cook it according to package directions. Set aside.
💡 Tip: Using a rice cooker can make this step easier. - 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the chopped tomatoes, curry powder, turmeric, and cumin. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have broken down and a paste forms.
- 5
Add the shrimp to the pot and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- 6
Pour in the water or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 7
Gently fold in the cooked rice into the shrimp mixture. Ensure the rice is evenly coated with the sauce.
💡 Tip: Be careful not to overmix, which can make the rice mushy. - 8
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
💡 Tip: A squeeze of lime or lemon juice can add a bright finish.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure your shrimp are fresh for the best flavor.
- ✓Adjust the amount of curry powder and spices to your preference.
- ✓This dish can be made vegetarian by omitting the shrimp and adding extra vegetables like peas or bell peppers.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, peas, or green beans.
- For a spicier kick, add a chopped chili pepper along with the tomatoes.