Sri Lankan Devilled Shrimp – Bold, Spicy, and Irresistibly Flavorful

Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its vibrant spices, fiery heat, and bold flavor combinations. Among its most beloved seafood dishes is Sri Lankan Devilled Shrimp, a sweet, spicy, and tangy prawn stir fry that delivers explosive flavor in every bite.

Unlike traditional curries simmered in coconut milk, this Sri Lankan devilled shrimp recipe is a fast, high-heat stir fry. Shrimp are quickly sautéed, then tossed in a thick, glossy sauce made from chili paste, soy sauce, tomato sauce, aromatics, and spices. The result is a dish that’s intensely flavorful, slightly caramelized, and perfectly balanced between heat and sweetness.

Whether served as a main dish with rice or as a spicy appetizer, devilled prawns Sri Lanka style are guaranteed to impress.

---

What Does “Devilled” Mean in Sri Lankan Cooking?

In Sri Lankan cuisine, “devilled” refers to dishes that are stir-fried with a spicy, sweet, and tangy sauce. It’s a popular preparation method used for chicken, fish, and prawns.

The hallmark features of a devilled dish include:

• Bold chili heat
• Slight sweetness
• Tangy acidity
• Caramelized sauce coating
• Crunchy vegetables

This authentic Sri Lankan shrimp dish brings all those elements together beautifully.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Restaurant-quality flavor at home
• Perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory
• Great for weeknight dinners or entertaining
• Easily adjustable heat level

If you enjoy spicy seafood with complex flavor layers, this spicy Sri Lankan prawn curry alternative will become a regular favorite.

---

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium red onion, cut into petals
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2–3 green chilies, sliced
• 8–10 fresh curry leaves
• 1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons tomato ketchup
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup water

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

1. In a bowl, combine shrimp with lime juice, turmeric, and salt.
2. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes while preparing other ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
4. Cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until just pink.
5. Remove and set aside (do not overcook).

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

6. In the same pan, add remaining oil.
7. Add garlic, ginger, curry leaves, and green chilies.
8. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

9. Add onion petals and bell peppers.
10. Stir fry on high heat for 2–3 minutes. Vegetables should remain slightly crisp.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

11. Add chili paste, tomato ketchup, soy sauce, sugar, black pepper, and water.
12. Stir until sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 6: Combine

13. Return shrimp to the pan.
14. Toss everything together for 1–2 minutes until well coated.

Step 7: Serve

15. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

---

Tips for Perfect Devilled Prawns

Use High Heat

A quick stir fry ensures shrimp stay tender and vegetables remain crisp.

Don’t Overcook Shrimp

Shrimp cook quickly—overcooking makes them rubbery.

Balance the Sauce

Taste and adjust sweetness or heat before adding shrimp back.

Fresh Curry Leaves Matter

They add authentic aroma and depth that defines Sri Lankan seafood stir fry dishes.

---

Variations

Extra Spicy Version

Add crushed red chili flakes or extra green chilies.

Mild Family-Friendly Version

Reduce chili paste and increase ketchup slightly.

Pineapple Twist

Add pineapple chunks for a sweet tropical contrast.

Chicken Alternative

Replace shrimp with boneless chicken pieces for devilled chicken.

---

Serving Suggestions

Sri Lankan devilled shrimp pairs beautifully with:

• Steamed white rice
• Sri Lankan yellow rice
• Fried rice
• Flatbread or roti
• Fresh cucumber salad

For a full Sri Lankan-inspired meal, serve alongside dhal curry and coconut sambol.

---

Storage and Reheating

• Store leftovers in airtight container up to 2 days
• Reheat quickly in hot pan
• Avoid microwaving too long to prevent overcooked shrimp

This dish tastes best freshly made.

---

Cultural Context

Sri Lanka’s coastal regions rely heavily on seafood. Prawns are widely available and commonly featured in celebratory and restaurant dishes.

Devilled preparations reflect colonial influences blended with traditional spice blends, resulting in a unique fusion of flavors. Today, devilled prawns Sri Lanka style are served everywhere from street stalls to upscale restaurants.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Is this a curry?
No, it’s a stir fry without coconut milk.

Can I meal prep this?
It’s best eaten fresh, but sauce can be prepared ahead.

---

Final Thoughts

This Sri Lankan Devilled Shrimp is bold, fiery, and packed with authentic flavor. With its glossy sauce, tender shrimp, and vibrant vegetables, it captures the essence of Sri Lankan seafood cuisine in a quick, easy recipe.

If you’re craving a spicy Sri Lankan prawn curry alternative with intense flavor and minimal prep time, this authentic Sri Lankan shrimp dish delivers every time.