Name: Coconut Curry Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons neutral oil; 1 pound large peeled, deveined shrimp (21/25 size); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 slices ginger; ½ - 1 can Thai red curry paste (to make the recipe milder, use ½ a can; 1 can = 4 ounces/115g); 2 teaspoons brown sugar (or palm sugar); 1 medium onion (cut into small wedges or large diced); ½ red bell pepper red bell pepper (thinly sliced); 13.5 ounces full-fat coconut milk (1 can); cilantro (optional garnish); salt (optional, to taste; not needed if using whole can of curry paste)

Introduction to Coconut Curry Shrimp

Coconut Curry Shrimp is not just a dish; it's a culinary experience that brings the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine right to your kitchen. Imagine the comforting aroma of coconut milk blended perfectly with the bold notes of red curry paste, creating a symphony of flavors that excite your taste buds without requiring you to step out for a meal.

Why Homemade Coconut Curry Shrimp?

There are countless reasons to whip up this delicious dish at home! For one, making your own Coconut Curry Shrimp allows you to control the spice level—mild or fiery, the choice is yours. Plus, there's a certain joy in cooking with fresh ingredients; it transforms a regular weekday dinner into something special. This dish cooks up in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy professionals looking to indulge in something extraordinary without a time-consuming process.

Did you know that coconut milk is not only creamy but also packed with health benefits? It's rich in nutrients and can even boost your energy levels. Check out more about its advantages on Healthline.

So, get ready to impress your friends or simply treat yourself to a delightful meal any night of the week!

Ingredients for Coconut Curry Shrimp

Creating a mouthwatering Coconut Curry Shrimp is easier than you might think! Let’s gather the essential ingredients that combine to make this delicious dish, bringing the flavors of Thai cuisine right to your kitchen.

Essential Ingredients

2 tablespoons neutral oil: This helps in achieving a good sear on the shrimp and balances the flavors.
1 pound large peeled, deveined shrimp (21/25 size): Perfectly sized shrimp make for easy cooking and an appealing presentation.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth to the dish.
2 slices ginger: Bring in a zesty twist that enhances the overall flavor.
½ - 1 can Thai red curry paste: Adjust according to your spice preference; ½ can for mild, full for bold!
2 teaspoons brown sugar (or palm sugar): Balances the heat of the curry paste.
1 medium onion (cut into small wedges or large diced): Adds texture and sweetness.
½ red bell pepper (thinly sliced): For a dash of color and crunch.
13.5 ounces full-fat coconut milk (1 can): Gives that creamy richness characteristic of coconut curry.
Cilantro (optional garnish): A fresh finish to brighten the dish.
Salt (optional): Taste and adjust based on your preference.

With these ingredients on hand, you're all set to stir up a fabulous Coconut Curry Shrimp that’s rich, aromatic, and unforgettable. Ready to dive in? Check out how to prepare this delightful meal next!

Preparing Coconut Curry Shrimp

Coconut curry shrimp is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine right into your kitchen. Preparing it is a breeze, and you'll be surprised at how quickly you can impress yourself and others with this dish. Let's dive into the steps!

Gather your ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to have all your ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 tablespoons of neutral oil (like canola or grapeseed)
1 pound of large peeled, deveined shrimp (aim for size 21/25)
2 cloves of garlic (minced)
2 slices of ginger
½ - 1 can of Thai red curry paste (you can adjust for spice preference)
2 teaspoons of brown sugar (or, if you like, palm sugar)
1 medium onion (cut into small wedges or large dice)
½ red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
13.5 ounces of full-fat coconut milk (1 can)
Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
Salt (to taste; optional depending on your curry paste)

Having everything physically within reach makes for a smoother cooking experience and keeps your flow uninterrupted!

Sear the shrimp

Start by heating a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and swirl it around to coat the pan. Once the oil is hot, throw in the shrimp and let them sear undisturbed for about 30 seconds on one side. After that, give them a quick stir-fry for another 30 seconds. You want them to be about 75% cooked, meaning they should look mostly opaque. When done, take them out of the pan and set them aside.

Infuse flavors with garlic and ginger

Next up, it’s time to build those incredible flavors! Reduce the heat a touch to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in your minced garlic and ginger. Sauté these aromatic ingredients for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. Then, turn up the heat again, add the curry paste, and fry this mixture for another minute. The smell will be intoxicating!

Now, stir in the brown sugar and add the onion and red bell pepper. Cook it for about two minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften up a bit while they soak in those delicious flavors.

Prepare the curry sauce

Next, it’s time to create the luscious curry sauce. Pour in the coconut milk and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Keep an eye on it! You don’t want it boiling too vigorously, as that can cause the coconut milk to split and lose its silky texture. Let it simmer for about two minutes to thicken the sauce and cook your onion down to tender perfection.

Combine shrimp with the sauce

Finally, it’s showtime! Stir in your previously cooked shrimp and let them simmer in the sauce for an additional minute. This is where the flavors blend beautifully. Taste the curry and, if necessary, adjust with a bit of salt—especially if you used less curry paste. For an extra touch, sprinkle some finely chopped cilantro on top before serving.

And there you have it! Your Coconut Curry Shrimp is ready to be served. Serve it over a bed of jasmine rice or noodles and enjoy a meal that feels fancy yet is incredibly easy to whip up any night of the week. Happy cooking!

Variations on Coconut Curry Shrimp

Coconut Curry with Vegetables

Looking to jazz up your Coconut Curry Shrimp? Incorporate a variety of seasonal vegetables! Think vibrant bell peppers, snap peas, or even zucchini to add a satisfying crunch. This not only enhances the dish's nutritional profile but also provides color and texture, making it visually appealing. Simply toss in your veggies after cooking the onions for approximately 2-3 minutes until they’re just tender for a delightful crunch.

Spicy Coconut Curry Shrimp

If you're a heat seeker, turning up the spice level is easy! Add extra Thai red curry paste or a dash of sriracha to your sauce. For an exciting twist, fresh sliced jalapeños can infuse your dish with a fiery kick. Just remember to taste as you go to get that perfect balance of spicy and savory! Want to explore more about spicy dishes? Check out Spicy Thai Kitchen for inspiration.

Cooking Tips for Coconut Curry Shrimp

Creating the perfect Coconut Curry Shrimp at home is easier than you might think! Here are some handy tips:

Choose Quality Shrimp: Opt for large, fresh shrimp (21/25 count) for the best texture and flavor. Frozen shrimp work too—just be sure to thaw them completely.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with ½ a can of Thai red curry paste and gradually add more to your taste. Remember, you can always spice up, but cooling down is a bit trickier!
Don't Rush the Simmer: When you add coconut milk, allow your sauce to simmer gently. A vigorous boil can make the milk split, ruining the smooth consistency.

For more tips on cooking with coconut milk, check out this guide by Serious Eats for expert insights!

Serving suggestions for Coconut Curry Shrimp

Pairing your Coconut Curry Shrimp with the right accompaniments can elevate both flavor and presentation. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice perfectly soaks up the luscious curry sauce, creating a delightful balance. You can cook it in coconut water for an extra touch!
Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, green salad with cucumbers, avocado, and a light vinaigrette complements the curry's richness. This adds freshness and a contrast to the meal.
Warm Naan Bread: Soft naan is excellent for scooping up the shrimp and sauce, adding an enjoyable textural element.
Garnish with Lime: A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a bright, zesty finish that can enhance the flavors beautifully.

These simple additions make for a vibrant and satisfying meal. Enjoy your culinary journey!

Time breakdown for Coconut Curry Shrimp

Preparation time
Get your ingredients ready in just 15 minutes! This includes peeling and deveining shrimp, chopping veggies, and measuring out your curry paste. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Cooking time
It takes about 15 minutes to cook our vibrant Coconut Curry Shrimp. This quick cooking session ensures that the flavors meld deliciously without overcooking the shrimp.

Total time
In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a delightful restaurant-quality meal at home. Ideal for busy weeknights or impressive dinner parties! Want to explore more about cooking shrimp? Check out this guide to elevate your culinary skills even further.

Nutritional Facts for Coconut Curry Shrimp

When enjoying a delicious bowl of Coconut Curry Shrimp, it’s useful to know what you're serving up! Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional facts for this flavorful dish:

Calories

Each serving contains approximately 405 calories, making it a satisfying yet nutritious option for lunch or dinner.

Protein

This recipe packs in about 26 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the shrimp, which contribute to muscle maintenance and overall wellness.

Carbohydrates

With only 11 grams of carbohydrates per serving, Coconut Curry Shrimp fits well into low-carb diets while still delivering a delightful taste and satisfying experience.

Want to dive deeper into nutritional information? Check out resources from the USDA Food Data Central for more insights! Remember, every meal can be enjoyed without compromising your goals!

FAQs about Coconut Curry Shrimp

Can I substitute the shrimp?

Absolutely! While shrimp is a star player in Coconut Curry Shrimp, you can easily swap it out for other seafood, like scallops or fish, if you prefer. If you're looking for a vegetarian or vegan option, consider using firm tofu or chickpeas for a protein-rich twist. Just remember that cooking times may vary depending on your substitute!

How do I store leftover Coconut Curry Shrimp?

Storing your Coconut Curry Shrimp is a breeze! Simply place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should keep well for 2-3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is also an option—just be sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best flavor and texture.

What can I serve with Coconut Curry Shrimp?

The creamy and spicy flavors of Coconut Curry Shrimp pair beautifully with various sides. Consider serving it over fluffy jasmine rice or coconut rice to soak up that delicious sauce. For a healthy touch, add steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas. You could even make it a meal by offering warm naan or flatbread on the side—perfect for dipping!

For more ideas, check out this post on the best side dishes.

Conclusion on Coconut Curry Shrimp

Coconut Curry Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine right to your kitchen. Its creamy coconut base and aromatic spices create a comforting meal ideal for busy weeknights. Whether served over rice or noodles, this recipe promises satisfaction and warmth in every bite. Enjoy!