Coconut Shrimp Curry – This easy coconut shrimp curry consists of flavorful curry sauce served over steamed rice made in less than 15 minutes perfect on those busy weeknights.
What You’ll Love About Coconut Shrimp Curry
This dish is an incredible combination of spice, flavor, and creaminess. With the richness of coconut milk, the sweetness of shrimp, and the perfect balance of spices, each bite is an explosion of flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make! You don’t have to be a professional chef to whip this up, and it can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights. The coconut milk creates a luxurious sauce that coats the shrimp beautifully, with a comforting consistency that’s perfect for serving over rice.
Ingredients for Coconut Shrimp Curry
- Shrimp: Use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for best results. You can also use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
- Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk adds richness and a smooth texture to the curry.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion adds a sweet and savory base to the curry.
- Garlic & Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger provide a wonderful aroma and depth to the curry.
- Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes or canned tomatoes help balance the richness of the coconut milk.
- Curry Powder: A good-quality curry powder is essential for authentic flavor. You can also use garam masala or curry paste for added depth.
- Chili: Add chili to adjust the heat level of the curry. Fresh or dried chili works well, depending on your spice preference.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds a burst of acidity that balances the sweetness of the coconut milk.
- Vegetable Oil: For sautéing the onions, garlic, and ginger.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro makes for a beautiful garnish and adds a burst of freshness.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Coconut Shrimp Curry
Shrimp Size: While large shrimp are ideal, smaller shrimp can work as well. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they don’t overcook.
Spice Levels: You can adjust the level of heat by adding more chili or using a milder curry powder. If you want a spicier curry, try adding a couple of fresh chopped green chilies.
Coconut Milk: If you prefer a lighter version of the curry, you can use light coconut milk, though it may not have the same creamy richness.
Sweetness Balance: If you feel the curry is too rich or spicy, a teaspoon of sugar or honey can balance out the flavors.
Freezing: If you have leftovers, this curry freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool before transferring to an airtight container for storage.
Variations of Coconut Shrimp Curry
While this coconut shrimp curry recipe is fantastic on its own, there are several ways you can personalize it:
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute shrimp with tofu or vegetables like cauliflower, potatoes, or sweet potatoes for a plant-based version.
- Add Coconut Flakes: For an extra layer of texture, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the curry before serving.
- Use Other Proteins: You can easily swap shrimp with chicken, fish, or even lamb if you prefer.
- Thai-Style: For a Thai-inspired version, add a couple of kaffir lime leaves and a splash of fish sauce. You can also include bamboo shoots or bell peppers.
- Add Spinach or Kale: A handful of spinach or kale can be stirred into the curry towards the end of cooking for added nutrients.
How to Serve Coconut Shrimp Curry
Coconut shrimp curry pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some great options:
- Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine rice or basmati rice to soak up the rich coconut sauce.
- Naan Bread: Soft, pillowy naan bread is perfect for dipping into the curry.
- Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice: If you prefer a lower-carb option, quinoa or cauliflower rice are excellent alternatives.
- Green Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the curry.
How to Store Coconut Shrimp Curry
If you have leftovers, coconut shrimp curry can be stored for later. Here’s how:
- Refrigerating: Allow the curry to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: This curry freezes well. Place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
Coconut Shrimp Curry
This easy coconut shrimp curry consists of flavorful curry sauce served over steamed rice made in less than 15 minutes perfect on those busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the marinade
- 1 pound shrimp, large, peeled and deveined
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the creamy sauce
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 14½ ounce tomatoes, diced
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 13½ ounce coconut milk
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 tablespoon corainder leaves, chopped
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, add the shrimp along with all the marination ingredients. Combine well and let it sit in the fridge for atleast 10 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium high heat. Add oil, once hot, add the chopped onion and stir cook for 2-3 minutes or until translucent.
- Add ginger, pepper, minced garlic, coriander, curry powder, turmeric, salt. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes and coconut milk. Combine well and bring to a boil and cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the marinated shrimp with the all the juices and cook for 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
- Serve over hot steamed rice and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 395Total Fat 26gSaturated Fat 21gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 3gCholesterol 239mgSodium 1492mgCarbohydrates 14gFiber 3gSugar 4gProtein 29g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Check my other shrimp recipes:
Final Thoughts
Coconut Shrimp Curry is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings for something rich, comforting, and full of flavor. Whether you’re a curry lover or trying this type of dish for the first time, it’s sure to be a hit. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can bring the taste of the tropics to your kitchen. Try it today, and enjoy the deliciousness that is coconut shrimp curry!
