What is Tandoori Shrimp? A Complete Guide to This Flavorful Indian Dish

Tandoori shrimp is a popular Indian dish that consists of shrimp marinated in a yogurt-based sauce infused with traditional Indian spices and then grilled or baked. With its vibrant red color and punchy flavors, tandoori shrimp is an appetizing way to enjoy the flavors of Indian cuisine using a simple protein.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making and enjoying tandoori shrimp, from its history and key ingredients to tips for preparing it at home. Whether you’re new to Indian food or a seasoned chef, read on to become a tandoori shrimp expert!

What is Tandoori?

To understand tandoori shrimp, it helps to first understand what “tandoori” refers to in general. Tandoori is a method of cooking native to India that involves using a special cylindrical clay oven called a tandoor.

Foods marinated in yogurt and spices are skewered and then cooked in the super hot tandoor, which can reach temperatures over 900°F The dry heat of the tandoor allows the items to cook quickly while infusing them with a charred, smoky flavor

While chicken and lamb are most commonly prepared tandoori style, the method works wonderfully for shrimp as well. When made traditionally in a tandoor, tandoori shrimp cooks up juicy and flavorful in just minutes.

History of Tandoori Cooking

Tandoori cooking originated in Punjab, India. The first tandoors emerged there between 2500-3000 BC during the Indus Valley civilization. These early tandoors were simple earthen pits in the ground used for cooking meat and breads.

Over the centuries, tandoor design evolved into the upright cylindrical clay ovens that are ubiquitous in India today. Their heat and cooking mechanism are ideal for the marinated meats typical of Mughlai cuisine, a cooking style influenced by the Mughal Empire.

The quintessential tandoori chicken was invented in the 1950s by a Punjabi restauranteur hoping to accommodate his European guests who longed for barbecued meat. Its wild popularity sparked an international craze for tandoori cuisine.

Tandoori Spice Blend

While tandoori refers to the method of cooking, there is also a typical spice blend used to flavor tandoori dishes. Tandoori spice mix can vary in ingredients and proportions, but commonly contains:

• Garam masala (usually includes black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, and dried chilies)
• Ginger
• Garlic
• Onion powder
• Cayenne pepper
• Coriander
• Turmeric
• Paprika or Kashmiri chili powder for color

This blend of warm, earthy spices gives tandoori its signature flavor. The spices permeate the protein during marinating and become wonderfully concentrated during high-heat cooking.

Preparing Tandoori Shrimp

Here is an overview of the basic process for making restaurant-quality tandoori shrimp at home:

Marinade

• Whisk yogurt, lemon juice, tandoori spice blend, salt, and herbs/aromatics like ginger and garlic. This can be adjusted to taste preferences.

• Marinate raw, peeled shrimp in the mixture to allow the flavors to penetrate. 30 minutes or longer.

Cooking Methods

• Bake: Spread shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 6-8 minutes until opaque.

• Grill: Thread shrimp onto skewers. Grill over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes per side. Watch closely to prevent overcooking.

• Broil: For added char, broil pre-baked shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side.

Key Tandoori Shrimp Ingredients

Beyond the traditional tandoori spice blend, there are a few key ingredients that make tandoori shrimp shine:

Yogurt

Plain yogurt is the typical base for tandoori marinades. Its tanginess and creaminess pair beautifully with the spices. Greek yogurt works well for its extra thickness.

Lemon

A squirt of lemon adds bright acidity to balance the rich, earthy spices. Lemon wedges are also perfect for squeezing over the finished shrimp.

Ginger and Garlic

These aromatic ingredients boost the flavor impact of the marinade. Use fresh for bolder taste.

Chili Powder

Cayenne, paprika, or Kashmiri chili powder contributes mild heat and also makes the shrimp vivid red.

Cilantro

Fresh cilantro leaves lend cool freshness when sprinkled on the hot shrimp or paired as a sauce.

Tips for Making Tandoori Shrimp at Home

With the right techniques, you can make restaurant-level tandoori shrimp in your own kitchen:

• Use high-quality spices for the best flavor. Buy them whole and grind just before using.

• Marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge.

• Pat the shrimp dry before cooking for better browning.

• Cook in a very hot oven, grill or broiler to get that authentic char.

• Don’t overcook – shrimp cooks fast. Watch closely for doneness.

• Finish with a squeeze of lemon and sprinkle of cilantro.

What to Serve with Tandoori Shrimp

Here are some tasty options for accompaniments and sides:

• Naan or other Indian flatbread
• Rice pilaf or biryani
• Yogurt raita
• Vegetable curry or stir fried veggies
• Green salad
• Roasted cauliflower or potatoes

A simple cucumber raita (yogurt with grated cucumber and mint) makes the perfect cooling complement to the zesty shrimp.

Tandoori Shrimp Appetizer Ideas

Thanks to its vibrant color and big flavors, tandoori shrimp makes an amazing appetizer for dinner parties. Some fun ways to serve it:

• On skewers with vegetables like onions and cherry tomatoes

• Nested on cucumber slices or Bibb lettuce cups

• Piled on naan with mango chutney for dipping

• Scattered on top of mini tostadas

• Served with tender grilled pineapple slices

• Alongside baked whole wheat pita chips for dipping in the sauce

Tandoori Shrimp Storage

Properly stored, leftover tandoori shrimp will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The baked shrimp can be stored in an airtight container with the sauce.

For the best taste and texture, avoid reheating cooked shrimp. The smell becomes unpleasant. Simply serve the chilled shrimp on greens, in a salad, or bread.

The tandoori marinade will keep for 4-5 days in the fridge. You can use it to marinate more shrimp or chicken.

Frozen, uncooked shrimp marinated in the sauce can be kept for 2-3 months in the freezer. Thaw before cooking. The marinade may become thinner once thawed.

Is Tandoori Shrimp Healthy?

Tandoori shrimp can be a nutritious addition to your diet when made with high quality ingredients.

Shrimp provide protein, vitamin B12, selenium, and antioxidant carotenoids like astaxanthin. Grilling or broiling is healthier than frying.

To limit calories and fat, opt for Greek yogurt and use oil sparingly. Go easy on any heavy curries or sauces paired with the shrimp.

Overall, tandoori shrimp delivers lots of flavor for relatively few calories, making it a smart seafood choice. The zesty spices also offer the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric, ginger, and garlic.

Make This Flavorful Shrimp Dish at Home

Tandoori shrimp is a treat for both spice lovers and seafood fans. The trademark tandoori flavors transform simple shrimp into an impressive appetizer or entree with little effort.

By mastering the easy marinade and using the right cooking techniques, you can achieve excellent results right in your own kitchen. Impress guests or whip up a weeknight dinner with mouthwatering Indian-inspired shrimp cooked under the broiler or on the grill.