Imagine a dish that combines the rich, complex flavors of Indian cuisine with the succulent tenderness of perfectly cooked prawns, all nestled in a hearty lentil base that promises to tantalize your taste buds. Our One Pot Prawn Dhansak is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that brings the vibrant streets of India right to your dining table. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero, delivering a restaurant-quality experience without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 lb prawns, peeled and deveined
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- Salt to taste
- 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water and drain. Set aside.
- Heat a large deep pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and sauté the chopped onions until they become soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground spices - turmeric, cumin, and coriander - and stir for 30 seconds to release their aromatic oils and prevent burning.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to break down and create a thick base.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed lentils. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the lentils are almost tender but not completely soft.
- Add the peeled and deveined prawns to the pot. Stir gently and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the prawns turn pink and are just cooked through.
- Season with salt to taste. Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if needed.
- Remove from heat and let the dhansak rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and accompanied by steamed rice or naan bread.
Tips
- Choose fresh, high-quality prawns for the best flavor and texture.
- Toast your spices briefly to enhance their aromatic qualities and prevent burning.
- Use vegetable broth for added depth, but you can substitute with chicken broth if preferred.
- Don't overcook the prawns - they should turn pink and become just opaque to maintain their tender texture.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to fully develop and meld together.
- For a creamier consistency, you can add a splash of coconut milk or yogurt at the end.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon for a bright, fresh finish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 150mg
