Burmese prawn curry (bazun hin) – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Burmese Prawn Curry, known as Bazun Hin, is a traditional stew from the vibrant culinary landscape of Myanmar. Steeped in history, this dish combines fresh prawns with an aromatic blend of spices and herbs like turmeric and lemongrass, common in Myanmar’s coastal regions. The curry’s essence is its rich, savory sauce that embraces the prawns, offering a burst of flavors typical of Southeast Asian cooking. A beloved dish across Burmese households, it perfectly captures the balance between the sea’s bounty and earth’s spices.
Ingredients
- Prawns, shelled and deveined – 500 g / 1.1 lb
- Coconut milk – 1 cup / 240 ml
- Yellow onion, finely chopped – 1 large / approx. 200 g
- Garlic cloves, minced – 4 cloves
- Ginger, grated – 1 inch piece / 1 tbsp
- Turmeric powder – 1 tsp
- Lemongrass stalks, smashed – 2 stalks
- Fish sauce – 2 tbsp
- Red chili powder – 1 tsp
- Lime juice – 2 tbsp
- Vegetable oil – 2 tbsp
- Salt – to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves – for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add turmeric powder, chili powder, and the smashed lemongrass, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the coconut milk and fish sauce, stirring gently until the mixture is well combined. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add the prawns to the pan, cooking until they are pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes.
- Season with salt and lime juice, adjusting to taste.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.
Substitutions
- Coconut milk -> Almond milk with a teaspoon of coconut extract
- Fish sauce -> Soy sauce
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a hint of shrimp paste for depth
- Marinate the prawns with lime juice and turmeric before cooking
- Include fresh chopped tomatoes for added acidity and color
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
