Top 5 Prawn Dishes India Loves to Order and Cook

Prawn dishes stay popular across India because they cook fast, absorb flavour well and bring coastal taste to everyday meals. From masala to biryani, these favourites fit weekday menus and weekend plans.

Top 5 Prawn Dishes India Loves to Order and Cook

Prawns move through Indian kitchens with a sense of ease. They cook fast, absorb flavour quickly and fit into simple meals as well as weekend spreads. People enjoy prawns because they bring the taste of the coast to the plate without long preparation. Many families link prawn dishes with travel memories, small celebrations or days when they want something easy but full of flavour. Across India, a few prawn dishes stand out because they carry local style, everyday comfort and a rhythm that suits many meals. Here are five that people often return to.

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Prawn masala

Prawn masala
Prawn Masala, Source: Zomato

Prawn masala appears in home kitchens and restaurant menus across states. The dish uses tomatoes, onions and a steady set of spices. Prawns cook fast, so the masala holds their flavour without losing shape. This dish suits rice, chapati or neer dosa. Many families prepare it on weekdays because it finishes quickly and still feels complete. The combination of spice and prawns creates a harmony that works for both lunch and dinner.

Prawn curry (coastal style)

Along the western and southern coasts, prawn curry takes centre stage. Each region shapes it differently.
In Kerala, coconut milk forms the base.
In Mangalore, roasted spices bring depth.
In Maharashtra, kokum adds tang.
Even with these variations, the idea remains simple: prawns simmer in a curry that carries spice and local ingredients. People enjoy this dish with rice because the curry spreads evenly. For many, coastal prawn curry is tied to home meals and relaxed weekends.

Prawn fry

Prawn fry
Prawn Fry, Source: Zomato

Prawn fry uses a short list of ingredients — chilli, turmeric, garlic and a touch of lemon. The prawns cook on a pan till the edges firm up. This dish suits evenings when people want something quick after work. It also appears in many lunch plates as a side. Prawn fry stays popular because it needs little time yet gives strong flavour. Many coastal homes prepare it several times a month, often using fresh catch.

Prawns ghee roast

Originating in Karnataka, prawns ghee roast uses a mix of roasted spices blended into a thick masala. Ghee brings smoothness to the heat. The dish pairs with neer dosa, appam or steamed rice. Many people enjoy ghee roast on weekends because the cooking process, though simple, carries a sense of care. The balance of spice and ghee offers a taste that sits comfortably even for those who prefer controlled heat.

Prawn biryani

Prawn biryani
Prawn Biryani: Source: Zomato

Prawn biryani brings rice and prawns together in a balanced way. The rice absorbs flavour without overpowering the prawns. Many restaurants prepare it with light masala, allowing the prawns to hold their place. This dish fits family meals, office lunches and get-togethers. People who enjoy biryani but want something lighter than chicken or mutton often choose this version. It also travels well, making it a common delivery order.

Ordering prawn dishes online

On days when fresh prawns are not available nearby, Zomato offers many prawn dishes for delivery. You can search for prawn masala, prawn curry, prawn fry, ghee roast or prawn biryani, compare menus, check ratings and finally order them.

Also Read:

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One Dish, Many Traditions: Chicken Biryani Across India

Published: November 28, 2025 18:24 IST

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