Iraal masala, or prawn masala, is a popular South Indian seafood dish featuring prawns ("iraal" in Tamil) coated in a robust, spicy masala sauce. The preparation typically involves marinating cleaned prawns with turmeric, chili powder, and salt before sautéing them with a blend of aromatics such as onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and spices including coriander, cumin, and black pepper.
The dish is sometimes referred to as Chettinad Prawn Masala, referring to the region of Tamil Nadu that is well-known for its spicy masalas.
The masala is often finished with curry leaves and occasionally a touch of coconut for depth. Iraal masala is traditionally served with rice or flatbreads like chapati and is noted for its balance of heat and the natural sweetness of the prawns.
Contrast prawn thokku, cooked in a drier, oilier sauce, with onion, tomato, and tamarind, which results in a thicker, tangier dish.