Seared Spicy Prawns

 Ingredients

 12 large prawns, shelled and de-veined

½-teaspoon cumin seed, ground

½-teaspoon cardamom seed, ground

¼-teaspoon finely minced garlic

¼-teaspoon coriander seed, ground

¼-teaspoon cinnamon, ground

1/8-teaspoon clove, ground

1/8-teaspoon salt

1/8-teaspoon cayenne pepper

2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee

 Method  

1. Butterfly the shrimp and remove any dark veins, then rinse, drain and pat dry.
2. Toss the shrimp in a bowl with cumin, cardamom, garlic, coriander, cinnamon, clove, salt and cayenne pepper.
3. Marinate refrigerated in a covered bowl for at least an hour.
4. Heat the oil in a heavy medium pan on moderate heat.
5. Rotate the pan to coat the bottom.
6. Sauté the shrimp cut side down for 2 minutes or until just cooked.
7. Turn and cook for another minute.
8. Remove and drain on paper towels.

 Variation  

1. Use whole spices instead of ground ones.
2. Grind in a coffee grinder or a kitchen mortar and pestle.
3. This will impart a more flavorful spice mixture.
4. Shrimp may be substituted for prawns if not available.