She Strengthens

Savoring the Flavors of Burma: A Heartwarming Prawn Curry Recipe

A Family Tradition Comes Alive

Meet Alvina Mangrai, a grandmother from Burma who shares her treasured prawn curry recipe, passed down through generations. This dish holds a special place in her heart, as she first learned to make it while pregnant and living in the United States. Now, she’s sharing it with her granddaughter Alyssa, and with us, through the Cooking with Grandma video series.

The Perfect Blend of Spices

This mouthwatering curry is a staple of Burmese cuisine, featuring a medley of aromatic spices. To recreate this dish, you’ll need:

• 1 pound medium prawns, peeled and deveined
• 5 garlic cloves, coarsely chopped
• 2 teaspoons fish sauce
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Madras curry powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger (from a 1-inch piece)
• 1 medium onion, coarsely chopped
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon prepared chile paste (such as sambal oelek)
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro, plus extra sprigs for garnish
• Coconut Rice, for serving

A Simple yet Flavorful Preparation

To prepare this curry, follow these easy steps:

Marinate and Prepare the Prawns

Combine prawns, half the garlic, fish sauce, curry powder, turmeric, and black pepper in a large bowl. Let it marinate for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Sauté the Aromatics

Heat oil in a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the remaining garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant (about 45 seconds). Then, add the onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 3-4 minutes).

Add the Prawns and Spices

Add the paprika and chile paste, stirring until the onion is evenly coated. Arrange the prawns in a single layer, raise the heat to medium-high, and cook until just opaque (about 3 minutes). Turn the shrimp over halfway through and stir until fully cooked.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped cilantro, stir with a flourish, and garnish with extra cilantro sprigs. Serve with coconut rice and a side of your favorite vegetables.

This Burmese prawn curry is a testament to the power of food to bring people together, sharing love, culture, and tradition across generations.