Royyala Vepudu | Authentic Andhra-Style Prawn Fry Recipe

Introduction:

If you're craving something spicy, quick, and packed with South Indian flavor, Royyala Vepudu is a must-try. A beloved prawn fry from the coastal regions of Andhra and Telangana, this dish is a perfect blend of juicy prawns, caramelized onions, and aromatic spices.

This is not just a side dish – it’s a showstopper on any lunch plate. Whether served with hot rice, rasam, or as a starter, this prawn fry will leave you licking your fingers. With just 30 minutes of cooking, it’s ideal for busy weekdays or festive weekends alike.

Ingredients:

For Marination:

• 500g prawns (peeled & deveined)
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• Salt to taste

For Frying:

• 2 tbsp oil (preferably peanut or sunflower oil)
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 1 medium onion – thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 2–3 green chillies – slit
• 1 tsp red chilli powder
• ½ tsp black pepper powder
• ½ tsp coriander powder
• ¼ tsp cumin powder
• ½ tsp garam masala
• 2 tbsp grated coconut (optional)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh coriander (for garnish)

Cooking Time

• Preparation: 15 mins
• Cooking: 15 mins
• Total: 30 mins

Step-by-Step-Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the Prawns

• Mix prawns with turmeric, lemon juice, and salt.
• Let it rest for 10–15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Masala Base

• Heat oil in a pan or kadai.
• Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
• Add curry leaves and sauté for a few seconds.

Step 3: Add Onions & Aromatics

• Add sliced onions and cook until they turn golden brown.
• Add ginger-garlic paste and green chillies; sauté until raw smell goes away.

Step 4: Add Spices

• Add red chilli powder, black pepper, coriander powder, cumin powder.
• Mix well and sauté for a minute on medium flame.

Step 5: Cook the Prawns

• Add the marinated prawns to the masala.
• Cook for 4–5 minutes until prawns turn pink and curl up.
• Don’t overcook – prawns cook fast!

Step 6: Final Touch

• Add garam masala and grated coconut (optional).
• Mix gently and turn off the heat.
• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Cooking Tips:

• 1.Do not overcook prawns – they become rubbery. 3–5 minutes is enough.
• 2.Caramelized onions give a sweet contrast to the spicy prawns – don’t skip or rush this step.
• 3.Want more spice? Add 1 tsp of Andhra mango pickle oil for extra kick.
• 4.Grated coconut is optional but adds a lovely coastal touch.
• 5.Swap regular oil with ghee or sesame oil for a festive flavor.
• 6. Spice it Up: If you like heat, add a dash of crushed red chili or black pepper for an extra kick.

Health Benefits

• High in Protein: Prawns are an excellent source of lean protein, ideal for muscle building and repair.
• Low in Calories: Prawns are low in fat and calories, making them a healthy addition to any diet.
• Rich in Selenium: This antioxidant-rich mineral helps support the immune system and thyroid function.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Promotes heart health and helps reduce inflammation in the body.
• Iron and Vitamin B12: Beneficial for maintaining energy levels, red blood cell production, and brain function.