Coconut Curry Shrimp

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This Coconut Curry Shrimp recipe is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of coconut milk and aromatic spices. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this creamy curry will transport your taste buds to the Caribbean. Its quick cooking time and simple ingredients make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to impress their guests or enjoy a comforting meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Flavorful Experience: The combination of coconut milk, spices, and fresh shrimp creates a rich and savory flavor profile that is sure to please.
  • Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or with crusty bread, this dish adapts easily to your serving preferences.
  • Healthy Option: Packed with protein from shrimp and healthy fats from coconut milk, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
  • Customizable Toppings: Add fresh herbs, lime slices, or spicy chilis to enhance the flavor and presentation according to your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather all the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make preparing your Coconut Curry Shrimp a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large frying pan or skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large frying pan or skillet: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
  • Cutting board: Ensures safety and cleanliness while chopping vegetables like onions and bell peppers.
  • Measuring spoons: Guarantees accurate measurements of spices for perfect flavor balance in your curry.

Ingredients

This delicious creamy coconut curry shrimp recipe is a fantastic meal.

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
  • 1-inch fresh ginger, minced or grated
  • 2 teaspoons curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 (14.5 ounces) can of coconut milk
  • 1 (14.5 ounces) can of diced tomatoes
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

Optional Toppings

  • Chopped fresh herbs
  • Slices of lime
  • Slices of red chilis or jalapeños

How to Make Coconut Curry Shrimp

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan or skillet over medium heat.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the onion to the pan:
Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent.

Add the diced bell pepper:
Cook for 3 more minutes.

Then add garlic and ginger:
Cook while stirring constantly for 30 seconds.

Step 3: Add Spices

Add curry powder, salt, red pepper flakes, and black pepper:
Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Coconut Milk and Tomatoes

Pour in coconut milk and diced tomatoes:
Stir until fully combined.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp into the pot:
Gently stir to coat all shrimp.

Increase heat:
Bring mixture to a low boil.

Reduce heat:
Allow to simmer for 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Finish Up

Turn off the heat:
Top with optional fresh herbs.

Step 7: Serve

Serve with white or brown rice if desired:
Top with slices of chiles and lime for added flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Coconut Curry Shrimp!

How to Serve Coconut Curry Shrimp

Coconut curry shrimp is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer it on its own or paired with side dishes, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Rice

  • White Rice: Fluffy white rice helps soak up the delicious curry sauce.
  • Brown Rice: A healthier option that adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.

With Bread

  • Naan Bread: Soft naan is perfect for scooping up the creamy coconut curry.
  • Crusty Baguette: Use slices of baguette to dip into the curry sauce for a delightful experience.

Topped with Fresh Ingredients

  • Chopped Herbs: Fresh cilantro or parsley adds a burst of flavor and color.
  • Lime Slices: A squeeze of lime brightens the dish with acidity.

As a Salad

  • Over Mixed Greens: Serve the coconut curry shrimp on a bed of greens for a refreshing twist.
  • With Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad complements the warmth of the curry.
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How to Perfect Coconut Curry Shrimp

To achieve the best results with your coconut curry shrimp, follow these helpful tips.

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and vegetables will enhance the overall flavor and texture.
  • Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
  • Simmer Gently: Allowing the shrimp to simmer gently ensures they remain tender and juicy.
  • Experiment with Herbs: Adding fresh basil or mint can give a unique twist to your dish.
  • Serve Immediately: Coconut curry shrimp tastes best when served hot right after cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Coconut Curry Shrimp

Pairing your coconut curry shrimp with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

  1. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients.
  2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers and tomatoes offers a healthy contrast.
  3. Roti or Paratha: These Indian flatbreads are great for dipping into the curry sauce.
  4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy shrimp.
  5. Mango Chutney: Sweet mango chutney adds an unexpected fruity flavor that pairs well with curry.
  6. Coconut Rice: Infuse rice with coconut milk for a deliciously rich addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make common mistakes when preparing coconut curry shrimp that can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.

  • Overcooking the shrimp – Shrimp cooks quickly. If left too long in the pan, it can become rubbery. To avoid this, add shrimp towards the end of cooking and only simmer until they turn pink.
  • Skipping the aromatics – Aromatics like onion, garlic, and ginger are key to a flavorful coconut curry shrimp. Don’t rush this step; take time to sauté them until fragrant.
  • Using low-quality coconut milk – The richness of your dish hinges on good coconut milk. Always opt for full-fat coconut milk for a creamy consistency, avoiding light versions.
  • Not adjusting spice levels – Spice preferences vary widely. Taste your dish as you cook and adjust seasonings accordingly to match your desired heat level.
  • Neglecting garnishes – Fresh herbs and lime slices enhance flavors and presentation. Don’t skip these toppings; they add freshness and complexity to your coconut curry shrimp.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Coconut Curry Shrimp

  • Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
  • Ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Coconut Curry Shrimp

  • Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes.
  • Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Stovetop – Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making coconut curry shrimp.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Coconut Curry Shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them beforehand for even cooking.

What can I serve with Coconut Curry Shrimp?

Coconut curry shrimp pairs well with white or brown rice, quinoa, or naan bread. You can also serve it over noodles for a different twist.

How spicy is Coconut Curry Shrimp?

The spice level can be adjusted based on personal preference. Red pepper flakes can be added gradually to achieve your desired heat level.

Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out vegetables or proteins according to your taste or availability. Tofu or chicken are great alternatives.

Final Thoughts

This coconut curry shrimp recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or protein options based on your preference. Give it a try; it’s bound to become a family favorite!

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Coconut Curry Shrimp

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Coconut Curry Shrimp is a tantalizing dish that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with vibrant spices, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinners or special occasions. In just 30 minutes, you can create a flavorful meal that transports your taste buds to the tropics. With tender shrimp simmered in a savory sauce and customizable toppings, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Serve it over fluffy rice or with crusty bread for a satisfying experience. Impress your guests or enjoy a comforting dinner at home with this delightful recipe.

  • Author: Noura
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Caribbean

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 teaspoons curry powder
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can coconut milk
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Sauté onions for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add bell pepper and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Add curry powder and mix for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in coconut milk and stir well.
  6. Add shrimp; bring to a low boil then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
  7. Serve immediately with optional toppings like fresh herbs or lime slices.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 19g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 180mg

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