Tandoori Shrimp | Recipe by Anita and Varinder Sahi

Experience the bold, vibrant flavors of India with this Tandoori Shrimp Recipe! Traditionally cooked in a Tandoor, this version brings the same smoky, spice-infused taste using a BBQ grill. The shrimp are marinated in yogurt, garam masala, Kashmiri chili, garlic, and fresh ginger, creating a perfect balance of heat and tang. The yogurt not only tenderizes the shrimp but also forms a light, flavorful crust when grilled. Serve as a savory appetizer or pair with basmati rice and naan for a satisfying entrée. For the best results, use fresh prawns, which absorb the marinade better and provide a more succulent texture. This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, delivering authentic Indian flavors with every bite!

Introduction to Tandoori Shrimp

Tandoori shrimp, also known as tandoori prawns, is a beloved Indian-inspired appetizer that has captivated taste buds around the globe. This dish is a staple in Indian cuisine, renowned for its unique blend of spices and succulent texture. The origins of tandoori shrimp can be traced back to the traditional tandoori cooking method, where food is marinated in yogurt and spices before being cooked in a tandoor oven. This method infuses the shrimp with a rich, smoky flavor that is both aromatic and delicious. By marinating the shrimp in a mixture of yogurt, spices, and herbs, and then grilling them to perfection, you achieve a dish that is perfect for gatherings, parties, and special occasions. The result is a flavorful and aromatic delight that is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients for Tandoori Shrimp

• 1 lb Jumbo Shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails on)
• Alternatively, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them properly before marinating.
• ½ cup Desi Yogurt (or Greek yogurt substitute)
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tbsp Garam Masala
• 1 tsp Minced Garlic Cloves & Fresh Ginger
• 1 tsp Kasuri Methi (or oregano substitute)
• 1 tsp Kashmiri Red Chili Powder
• Juice of 1 Lemon
• Salt & Pepper to taste

Garnishes: Lemon Juice

• Chopped Cilantro Leaves & Tender Stems
• Lime Wedges

Equipment and Tools for Tandoori Shrimp

To create the perfect tandoori shrimp, having the right equipment and tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A large bowl: Ideal for marinating the shrimp, ensuring they are evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
• A cutting board: Necessary for preparing the shrimp and chopping the spices and herbs.
• A skillet or grill pan: Perfect for cooking the shrimp, giving them that desired char and smoky flavor.
• A medium-high heat stove or grill: Ensures the shrimp are cooked evenly and to perfection.
• Skewers or a grill basket (optional): Useful for grilling the shrimp, making it easier to handle them on the grill.
• A serving platter or individual plates: For presenting the tandoori shrimp beautifully when serving.

Having these tools on hand will make the preparation process smooth and enjoyable, allowing you to focus on creating a delicious dish.

Tandoori Shrimp Recipe: Step-by-Step Preparation

Here’s a detailed guide to preparing tandoori shrimp, ensuring you achieve the best results every time:

1. Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, ginger garlic paste, lemon juice, garam masala, and olive oil. Mix well until the ingredients are fully integrated.
2. Marinate the shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Preheat your cooking surface: Whether using a skillet or grill pan, preheat it over medium-high heat to ensure even cooking.
4. Cook the shrimp: Remove the shrimp from the marinade and place them on the preheated skillet or grill pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, achieving a light char.
5. Serve immediately: Transfer the hot tandoori shrimp to a serving platter. Pair them with warm naan bread, mint chutney, or a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal.

By following these steps, you’ll create a dish that is bursting with flavor and sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy the delightful combination of spices and the succulent texture of these tandoori shrimp!

Tandoori Shrimp Recipe: Step-by-Step Preparation with Ginger Garlic Paste

1. Pat dry the shrimp using paper towels to help the marinade stick better.
2. Prepare the marinade by combining yogurt, tandoori masala, Kashmiri red chili powder, garlic, fresh ginger, lemon juice, and Kasuri methi. Mix well until smooth.
3. Coat the shrimp evenly in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well covered. Properly marinated shrimp will absorb the flavors deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Cover and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to enhance flavor absorption.
4. Preheat the grill to medium heat for even cooking.
5. Skewer the shrimp, ensuring even spacing. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15–20 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
6. Grill shrimp for 2 minutes per side, achieving a light char while keeping them juicy. Avoid overcooking.

Serving Suggestions for Tandoori Shrimp Recipe

This Tandoori Shrimp Recipe is best enjoyed hot off the grill, when the flavors are at their peak. Serve it as a savory appetizer, or transform it into a full meal by pairing it with fluffy basmati rice and warm naan. The succulent prawns will be a hit, offering a tender and flavorful bite that pairs perfectly with the sides. To balance the heat and smoky flavors, add a side of cooling yogurt dip or refreshing mint chutney. A fresh cucumber salad or pickled onions also complement the dish beautifully. Whether for a dinner party or a casual meal, this flavorful shrimp dish will impress your guests with its bold Indian spices and juicy texture!

Variations and Substitutions for Tandoori Shrimp Recipe

This Tandoori Shrimp Recipe is versatile, allowing for creative variations to suit different preferences. For alternative proteins, try chicken, fish, or paneer, which soak up the flavorful marinade beautifully. Vegetarians can swap shrimp for mushrooms or tofu, ensuring a hearty, spice-infused dish.

If you don’t have Desi yogurt, Greek yogurt works perfectly as a substitute. For spice adjustments, replace Kashmiri chili powder with smoked paprika for a milder, smoky flavor. Can’t find Kasuri methi? Use dried oregano as an alternative to achieve a similar earthy note. These substitutions ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious dish!

Wine Pairing for Tandoori Shrimp Recipe

A well-paired wine enhances the bold flavors of this Tandoori Shrimp Recipe, and the 2021 White Wine (50% Roussanne, 50% Viognier, Paso Robles Willow Creek AVA) is an excellent choice. The floral and fruity notes of this blend beautifully balance the smoky, spicy, and tangy profile of the shrimp. Roussanne adds richness and subtle spice, complementing the garam masala and Kashmiri chili, while Viognier’s bright acidity and stone fruit flavors contrast the heat, creating a refreshing bite after every sip.

For the best experience, serve this wine slightly chilled, allowing its crispness to cut through the creamy yogurt marinade while enhancing the charred, smoky essence of the shrimp. Whether served as an appetizer or paired with basmati rice for a full meal, this combination creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Elevate your Tandoori Shrimp Recipe with this elegant wine pairing for a truly unforgettable dining experience!

Conclusion

This Tandoori Shrimp Recipe brings the bold, smoky flavors of Indian cuisine to your home with ease. The combination of yogurt, aromatic spices, and high-heat grilling creates a dish that is both simple and incredibly flavorful. Whether served as an appetizer or paired with basmati rice for a hearty meal, it’s sure to impress!

Try this recipe and experience authentic tandoori flavors from your grill. Share your cooking experience in the comments! For more delicious Indian-inspired recipes, download the full recipe or subscribe for updates. Enjoy this mouthwatering dish at your next gathering!

Download the recipe here.