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Dried Prawn Sambol
Sambols & Sides • Sri Lanka
ගැන Dried Prawn Sambol
Dried prawns pounded with chili and coconut — intensely savoury sambol.
How to Make Dried Prawn Sambol (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Dried Prawn Sambol, also known as ‘Karawala Sambol’ in Sri Lanka, is a beloved coastal delicacy that brings together the intense umami of sun-dried prawns with the bold flavors of Sri Lankan spices. This sambol is a staple in many Sri Lankan households, especially along the island’s vibrant coastal regions where seafood is abundant. Prepared by sautéing dried prawns with aromatic onions, chili, and lime, it delivers a harmonious balance of salty, spicy, and tangy notes, making it a perfect accompaniment to rice and other Sri Lankan main dishes. The dish’s origins are rooted in the resourceful culinary traditions of Sri Lanka’s fishing communities, where drying seafood was a practical way to preserve the ocean’s bounty. Today, Dried Prawn Sambol is enjoyed across the country and is prized for its bold taste and versatility. It’s a wonderful way to add depth and protein to any meal, and its robust flavors are sure to excite adventurous palates. For health-conscious cooks, this recipe uses minimal oil and fresh, wholesome ingredients, making it a smart addition to a balanced diet.
Ingredients(for About 3 tablespoons per serving, typical for a Sri Lankan meal side)
- 1/2 cup Dried prawns (Karawala (cleaned, soaked, and rinsed))
- 1 medium Red onion (finely sliced)
- 2 Fresh green chilies (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon Dried red chili flakes (Sri Lankan chili flakes (kochchi miris))
- 1 small Tomato (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 8-10 Curry leaves (fresh)
- 1 teaspoon Coconut oil (or sunflower oil)
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper (freshly ground) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Soak the dried prawns in warm water for 10 minutes to soften and remove excess salt. Drain, rinse well, and pat dry.
10 minutes
Proper soaking helps reduce sodium and improves texture.
- 2
Heat coconut oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the prawns and sauté until they turn light golden and aromatic.
5 minutes
Avoid over-frying to keep prawns tender and reduce added fat.
- 3
Add sliced red onions, green chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté until onions are translucent and softened.
4 minutes
Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- 4
Mix in the chopped tomato and cook until it breaks down and blends with the mixture.
3 minutes
Tomatoes add a subtle tang and juiciness to the sambol.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This sambol is a healthy option because it’s high in protein while being low in calories and saturated fat. The generous use of fresh vegetables and herbs boosts its nutritional value, while the minimal use of oil helps control overall calorie intake. The dish is also free from refined sugars and artificial additives, making it suitable for most balanced diets. It adds flavor and nutrition to meals without overpowering them with heavy sauces or creams.
Dried Prawn Sambol is rich in lean protein from prawns, which helps with muscle maintenance and satiety. The use of fresh vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and chilies provides vitamins C and A, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. Minimal oil keeps the fat content low, and the sambol is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. The inclusion of curry leaves adds essential minerals like iron and calcium. As with any dried seafood, sodium can be higher, but soaking and rinsing helps reduce salt content.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Always soak and rinse dried prawns thoroughly to remove excess salt.
- 💡Tip 2: Use fresh curry leaves for authentic aroma and taste.
- 💡Tip 3: Adjust chili levels to suit your spice tolerance, or add a pinch of sugar for balance if needed.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover sambol in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature or gently reheat before serving for best flavor.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 165.0 kcal |
| Protein | 12.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6.4 g |
| Total Fat | 10.4 g |
| Fiber | 1.6 g |