If you’re craving something cozy, creamy, and just a little bit tropical, let me introduce you to Prawn Caldine Recipe. Caldine (also spelled caldin, caldinho, or caldeen) is a term of Portuguese origin that means “little soup” or “broth.”a Goan coconut curry that’s as comforting as your favorite sweater. This isn’t your typical fiery curry. Instead, Caldine is all about gentle layers of flavor: sweet coconut, bright coriander, a hint of spice, and the briny goodness of fresh prawns.

What I love most about this Prawn Caldine recipe is its versatility. It’s a seafood curry at heart, but the coconut masala is so good, you could absolutely swap in your favorite veggies or even fish. The sauce is creamy (but not heavy), aromatic, and just a little tangy thanks to tamarind. If you’re new to Goan food, this is a gentle, delicious place to start.

Table of Contents

Learn How to Make Authentic Prawn Caldine Curry

Caldine Masala: Why Fresh Coconut Makes All the Difference

The real magic of this Prawn Caldine recipe is in the caldine masala, a fresh, homemade paste that brings everything together. If you’ve ever wondered why some curries taste so vibrant, it’s all about the masala. Here, we blend together fresh grated coconut (the star!), garlic, ginger, coriander leaves, green chilies, turmeric, black peppercorns, cardamom, cinnamon, and a little raw rice for body.

Why coconut?
Coconut is the soul of Prawns Caldine Recipe. It gives the curry its creamy texture and subtle sweetness, balancing the gentle heat from the spices. If you can, use fresh coconut; it really does make a difference. But don’t worry, frozen or unsweetened desiccated coconut works in a pinch.

Cooking the Prawns: How to make it Soft & Juicy

Prawns cook in a flash. After a quick sauté with onions, green chilies, and tomatoes, the prawns go in with a sprinkle of turmeric and salt. The trick is not to overcook them, just a few minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Then, remove it and set it aside while you finish the sauce.

Why this step? It keeps the prawns perfectly juicy and tender, so they don’t get rubbery while the curry simmers. Trust me, you’ll taste the difference!

Bringing It Together: The Creamiest Prawn Caldine Curry Recipe

Now for the fun part, building the Prawn Caldine curry recipe! Pour your gorgeous coconut masala into the pan and let it cook until it thickens and the oil starts to separate. This is where the flavors deepen and meld together. Add the tamarind pulp for tang and a pinch of sugar to round things out.

Once your sauce is ready, gently slide the prawns back in and let everything simmer for just a few minutes. The prawns soak up all that coconutty goodness, and the sauce turns a beautiful golden yellow. If you like your curry extra creamy, stir in a splash of coconut milk at the end.

Taste and add more salt or adjust the tamarind pulp if you like. This curry is all about balance: creamy, tangy, and just a little sweet.

More Authentic Goan Recipes

Authentic Goan Caldine Recipe Curry Photos

Served hot with rice and sannas

How to Serve Prawn Caldine

Prawn Caldine is made for rice. Spoon it over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or Poe (Goan baked Bread), if you want to go full Goan, serve it with sannas (soft, steamed rice cakes).

For a pretty touch, sprinkle with fresh coriander leaves. If you want a little crunch, add a side of cucumber salad or papad. This curry also plays well with other seafood dishes or as part of a big Indian spread.

Prawn Caldine Recipe Tips, Alternates & Storage

Make it mild: Skip or reduce the green chilies for a kid-friendly version.
No tamarind? Lemon juice works in a pinch.
Creamier curry: Add coconut milk at the end for extra richness.
Vegetarian twist: Use veggies like pumpkin, bottle gourd, or cauliflower instead of prawns.
Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently, prawns don’t like to be overcooked!

Prawn Caldine Recipe Questions, Answered.

What is Caldine?
Caldine (or caldinho) is a mild, coconut-based Goan curry, usually made with seafood or veggies and gentle spices.

Can I use other seafood or veggies?
Absolutely! Try fish, crab, or a mix of your favorite vegetables.

Is it spicy?
Not at all, Caldine is known for being mild and creamy. Adjust the chilies to your taste.

Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Make the curry base ahead and add the prawns just before serving for best texture.

What should I serve with it?
Steamed rice, sannas, or even crusty bread for dipping.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to keep the prawns tender.

Can I use coconut milk instead of fresh coconut?
Yes! Coconut milk makes the curry even creamier and is a great shortcut.

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