2. Grind together chillies, peppercorns, cumin, turmeric, ginger and garlic adding just a little oil to keep the blades of the blender turning.

3. Heat oil and fry the mustard seeds till they start to crackle,add curry leaves and sliced onions. Cook till the onions are golden brown.

4. Add the ground masala to the browned onions and sauté for about a minute, add 1-2 tablespoon water if masala sticks to the bottom.

5. Now add the shrimps and simmer till cooked.

6. Now add the tamarind pulp and salt and take it off the heat.

7. Serve hot with boiled rice.

Note: If you need the curry to be hot then add a few more Red chillies while grinding the masala.