Apa De Camarao
Snacks • India
About Apa de Camarao
Goan Catholic prawn pie with a spiced rice or semolina crust encasing a masala prawn filling, a festive bake.
How to Make Apa de Camarao (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Apa de Camarao is a delightful non-veg snack that finds its roots in the coastal belt of Gujarat, where the love for seafood meets the classic Indian art of spiced batters and shallow frying. This dish, featuring succulent prawns enveloped in a lightly spiced, crispy coating, is a true testament to Gujarat’s rich coastal heritage. Apa de Camarao is cherished during family gatherings and festive occasions, especially in communities along the Saurashtra coast, where seafood is a staple and the preparation of unique snacks is a cherished tradition. The taste of Apa de Camarao is a harmonious blend of fresh prawns, aromatic Indian masalas, and the subtle nuttiness of besan (gram flour). The dish is not only delicious but also mindful of calories, making it a wonderful choice for those tracking their nutritional intake. Typically enjoyed as an evening snack or a starter during local festivals, this recipe ensures you get all the authentic flavors without excessive oil or calories. Packed with protein and moderate on carbs, Apa de Camarao is a snack that brings you the true flavors of Gujarati coastline, perfect for those who want to enjoy seafood in a health-conscious way.
Ingredients(for 1 small plate (approx. 6-8 pieces))
- 150g Fresh prawns (cleaned and deveined) (jhinga)
- 1/2 cup Besan (gram flour) (for batter)
- 2 tbsp Rice flour (for extra crispiness)
- 1 tsp Ginger-garlic paste (adrak-lasun ka paste)
- 1 finely chopped Green chilli (hari mirch)
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder (haldi)
- 1/2 tsp Red chilli powder (lal mirch)
- 1/2 tsp Coriander powder (dhaniya powder)
- 2 tbsp chopped Fresh coriander leaves (hara dhaniya)
- to taste Salt
- 1 tsp Lemon juice (nimbu ras)
- 2 tbsp Oil (for shallow frying)
Instructions
- 1
Wash and pat dry the prawns. Marinate them with ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, turmeric, and salt. Set aside for 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Marinating infuses flavor and tenderizes the prawns.
- 2
In a bowl, mix besan, rice flour, chopped green chilli, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and a pinch of salt. Add a few spoons of water to make a thick, smooth batter.
5 minutes
Ensure the batter is not too runny for better coating.
- 3
Add chopped coriander leaves to the batter and mix well.
1 minute
Fresh coriander adds aroma and color.
- 4
Heat a tawa or non-stick pan and add 2 tbsp oil. Dip each marinated prawn into the batter, ensuring it is well-coated.
2 minutes
Use minimal oil for a healthier snack.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Gujarati seafood snack is a healthy choice as it is shallow fried rather than deep fried, reducing overall calorie and fat intake. Prawns are low in calories but high in protein, making the dish ideal for weight management and muscle building. The use of besan instead of refined flour offers better nutrition and is naturally gluten-free, supporting digestive health. The recipe’s balance of macros makes it suitable for a light, satiating meal.
Apa de Camarao is a nutritionally balanced snack, offering a good amount of high-quality protein from prawns, which supports muscle health and satiety. The use of besan (gram flour) and rice flour adds complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and minerals like magnesium and iron. Minimal oil ensures lower saturated fat. The inclusion of fresh herbs and spices boosts antioxidants, vitamins, and adds anti-inflammatory properties, making this snack both flavorful and beneficial for overall wellness.
Pro Tips
- 💡Always pat dry prawns to avoid watery batter.
- 💡Use a heavy-bottomed tawa for even frying.
- 💡Add a pinch of ajwain (carom seeds) for extra digestive benefit.
Storage & Serving
Best enjoyed fresh, but can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Reheat on a tawa to restore crispiness before serving.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 246.0 kcal |
| Protein | 12.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 26.0 g |
| Total Fat | 11.0 g |
| Fiber | 2.0 g |
