Open Salon goes behind the scenes with Modern Spice, January 2010

 I had such a fun interview with the very talented Roz Cummins on all that happened behind the scenes during the writing of Modern Spice. Take a peek here. I also mentioned to her that one of my favorite recipes was the cover dish from the book – the Shrimp with Pomegranate. So here you go –  

From Modern Spice, by Monica Bhide

 This dish cooks in just a few minutes. Don’t overcook the shrimp or they will become rubbery—remember the Frugal Gourmet’s perfect advice: “Most seafoods . . . should be simply threatened with heat and then celebrated with joy.”

I like to serve this as a first course or as a light supper. If you cannot find pomegranate molasses, you can use a tablespoon of pomegranate juice or even grenadine.

Serves 4 as an entrée
Prep/Cook time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds shrimp, shelled and deveined
2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/4 teaspoon red chile powder or red chile flakes
1/2  teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon table salt
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 sprig fresh curry leaves
2 large or 4 to 6 small shallots, thinly sliced
1 cup fresh pomegranate seeds (see Note)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, pomegranate molasses, garlic, turmeric, chile powder, coriander, and salt. Mix well. The best way to do this is with your hands.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. When it shimmers, add the curry leaves and shallots. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the shallots just begin to change color.
3. Add the shrimp and marinade. Toss for a few minutes, just until the shrimp are completely cooked through.
4. Remove from the heat and serve immediately, sprinkled with pomegranate seeds.

 Note: Dried pomegranate seeds are not a substitute for fresh ones—trust me on this. Add the dried ones to this recipe and you will have a mess on your hands!

From Modern Spice by Monica Bhide. Copyright (c) 2008 by Monica Bhide. Published by Simon & Schuster. Reprinted with permission.