Prawn Balchao
A fiery, tangy Goan prawn dish cooked in vinegar and red chilies.
Prawn Balchao
ByKavitha
Quick Info
- Prep: 20 mins
- Cook: 25 mins
- Servings: 4
Ingredient Substitutes
- Prawns → Fish
- Vinegar → Kokum
Ingredients
- 400g prawns, cleaned
- 10 dried red chilies
- 6 garlic cloves
- 1 inch ginger
- 2 tbsp vinegar
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 2 tbsp oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Grind red chilies, garlic, ginger, and vinegar into a paste.
- Heat oil and sauté onions until soft.
- Add ground paste and cook until oil separates.
- Add prawns and cook 5–7 mins until done.
- Adjust salt and cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Variations
Use vinegar generously for authentic taste | Do not overcook prawns | Thick consistency is key | Tastes better after resting
You will love it
Prawn Balchao is a bold and spicy goan specialty influenced by Portuguese cuisine. Fresh prawns are cooked with dried red chilies, garlic, ginger, vinegar, and spices to create a thick, tangy preparation that lies between a curry and a pickle. Known for its intense flavors and long shelf life, it is traditionally enjoyed with rice or bread.
Serving: Serve with steamed rice, pao (Goan bread), or plain chapati.
Storage: Refrigerate up to 5 days
Tools Required
FAQ
Is balchao very spicy?
Yes, traditionally spicy.
Can it be stored?
Yes, refrigerate up to 5 days.
Is this a curry or pickle?
It is a semi-pickle curry.
Can fish be used?
Yes, fish balchao is common.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free.
📝 From Our Kitchen
Prawn balchao is traditionally prepared in Goan Catholic households and is known for its spicy, tangy flavor. It is often made in advance as the taste improves after resting.
— Kavitha, Cheffo Kitchen
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Kavitha
Founder & Publisher • Culinary Editor
Hi, I’m Kavitha — the founder of Cheffo. Cooking has always been close to my heart, especially traditional recipes passed down through families. Through Cheffo, I share authentic regional dishes with clear instructions and practical tips so you can recreate those comforting flavors at home.