Non-vegetarian●●●Origin PunjabPrep 30 minutes, plus marinating timeCook 20 minutes
Succulent skewered prawns marinated in a sharp, double-ginger and yoghurt emulsion with the pungent warmth of tempered mustard oil. A quick grill yields tender, smoky shellfish finished with a glossy coat of melted butter.
In a wide mixing bowl, whisk 250 g hung yoghurt until smooth, then blend in the yoghurt marinade spices, 15.3 g lemon juice, and salt to taste.
Bring 40.5 g mustard oil to 180°C (350°F) in a small pan. Tip in the turmeric for the hot oil and immediately transfer the sizzling oil into the yoghurt mixture. Clamp a lid on tightly for 2 minutes to trap the aroma, then stir everything together.
Submerge 20 prawns in the marinade, turning them until thoroughly covered. Cover and leave to absorb the flavours for 30 minutes.
Heat an overhead grill (broiler), charcoal barbecue, or tandoor to medium. Secure the prawns along metal skewers and spread any residual marinade over the top.
Grill the skewers for 8–10 minutes until the prawns turn opaque and are cooked through.
Take the skewers off the heat and rest them suspended above a rimmed tray for 5 minutes so liquid drips away. Brush liberally with butter to taste, then return to the heat for another 2 minutes until sizzling.
Use 300% to 400% of the weight (e.g. 3–4 g paste for 1 g ground). Fry in oil alongside onions; provides a juicy, pungent kick rather than a dry, baking-spice heat.
Peel and grate finely; use 300% to 400% of the weight. Add to the hot oil early; delivers bright, peppery warmth rather than the mellow, woody heat of dry ginger.
Steep a tiny pinch (0.1 g per 2 g turmeric) in 2 tbsp warm water; use to match the rich golden hue. Contributes an aristocratic, honeyed floral flavour rather than earthy bitterness.