Irresistible Coconut Shrimp Curry Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Sailing through culinary landscapes, this coconut shrimp curry offers a vibrant journey of flavors that dance across your palate.

Fragrant spices whisper tales of tropical coastlines and bustling markets.

Tender shrimp nestle in a creamy, rich sauce that embraces each morsel with warmth.

Aromatic herbs and gentle heat create a symphony of taste that feels like a coastal breeze.

Layers of complexity unfold with each spoonful, promising an adventure beyond typical weeknight meals.

Spices weave magic into simple ingredients, turning an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary experience.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this delightful curry that connects comfort with excitement.

Tips for Balancing Sweet and Spicy Flavors

• Spice Toasting Trick: Briefly toast whole spices before grinding to unlock deeper, more complex flavors and enhance the curry's aromatic profile.
• Shrimp Freshness Matters: Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp with a sweet ocean smell and firm texture for the best curry experience.
• Coconut Milk Selection: Opt for full-fat coconut milk to create a rich, creamy curry sauce with authentic depth and silky consistency.
• Heat Control Technique: Simmer curry gently to prevent shrimp from becoming tough, ensuring tender and perfectly cooked seafood.
• Dietary Adaptation Hack: Swap shrimp with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version while maintaining the curry's robust flavor profile.

Best Ways to Store and Reheat This Seafood Curry

• Store leftover curry in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep sealed in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Pour cooled curry into freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label with date and contents.
• Warm curry in a pan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add splash of coconut milk to restore moisture and prevent drying. Heat until temperature reaches 165°F.
• Transfer curry to microwave-safe dish. Cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warmed.

Great Sides to Pair with Shrimp Curry

• Select a crisp, slightly sweet Riesling that complements the curry's spicy and creamy profile, cutting through the richness while enhancing the coconut and shrimp flavors.
• Brew a cold Thai iced tea with its sweet and creamy texture, which perfectly balances the curry's heat and provides a cooling counterpoint to the spices.
• Choose jasmine rice for its delicate floral notes that match the curry's complex spice blend, absorbing the sauce while adding a subtle aromatic dimension to each bite.
• Sprinkle fresh mint leaves alongside cilantro to introduce a bright, cool element that lifts the curry's deep flavors and adds a fresh, zesty finish to the dish.

Flavorful Twists on Coconut Shrimp Curry

• Low-Carb Cauliflower Base: Replace rice with riced cauliflower for a keto-friendly version that cuts carbohydrates while maintaining the curry's rich flavors.
• Vegan Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with firm tofu or chickpeas, ensuring a plant-based protein that absorbs the aromatic curry sauce perfectly.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Confirm all spices and ingredients are certified gluten-free and serve with gluten-free rice or cauliflower rice to accommodate sensitive diets.
• Spice Level Adjustment: Reduce or increase red chili powder to customize heat intensity, allowing individuals to control the curry's spiciness according to their preference.

FAQs on Making Coconut Shrimp Curry

• What makes this curry different from other shrimp curries?

This coconut shrimp curry uses a blend of traditional Indian spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala, creating a rich, complex flavor profile that sets it apart from simpler curry recipes.

• Is this curry spicy?

The curry has a mild to moderate heat level. You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less black pepper, or including fresh chili peppers if you want more heat.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding to the curry to ensure proper cooking and prevent excess liquid.

• What type of coconut milk should I use?

Choose full-fat coconut milk for the best, creamiest texture. Light coconut milk can make the curry thinner and less rich. Avoid coconut milk beverages meant for drinking.

Why Coconut Shrimp Curry Brings Heat and Creaminess

• Explore a vibrant blend of turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala that transforms simple shrimp into an exciting culinary experience with complex, layered tastes.
• Enjoy a balanced dish packed with protein from shrimp, healthy fats from coconut milk, and aromatic spices that deliver incredible nutrition and satisfaction in a single skillet.
• Adapt the recipe to your preferences by adjusting spice levels, swapping shrimp for another protein, or serving with different sides like cauliflower rice or quinoa for endless variety.

Ingredients for This Coastal Curry Favorite

• Shrimp: Sweet seafood protein that cooks quickly and absorbs curry flavors well. Fresh or frozen shrimp work great, with medium or large sizes preferred.
• Coconut Milk: Rich, creamy base that provides luxurious texture and authentic curry taste. Full-fat versions offer best flavor and consistency.

• Onion, Garlic, Ginger: Classic curry flavor foundation with depth and warmth. Fresh ingredients recommended for most vibrant taste.

• Turmeric, Cumin, Coriander, Paprika, Garam Masala: Complex spice blend creating authentic curry profile. Use fresh, high-quality ground spices for maximum flavor.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance overall taste. Kosher or sea salt preferred.
• Tomato Paste, Diced Tomatoes: Adds acidity and depth to curry sauce. Opt for no-salt-added versions if watching sodium.
• Lime Juice: Bright, acidic finish that balances rich curry flavors. Fresh lime recommended over bottled juice.

• Fresh Cilantro: Aromatic herb that provides fresh, herbal contrast. Optional for those who enjoy its flavor.
• Steamed Rice, Naan: Traditional accompaniments that soak up delicious curry sauce.

How to Make Shrimp Curry with a Coconut Kick

Step 1: Awaken Aromatic Flavors

Heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium warmth.

Toss chopped onions and sizzle for 3-4 minutes until they turn soft and translucent.

Add minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring quickly for 30 seconds to release their intense fragrance.

Step 2: Create Vibrant Curry Base

• Turmeric
• Cumin
• Coriander
• Paprika
• Garam masala

Toast the spices gently to unlock their deep, rich essence.

Introduce tomato paste and diced tomatoes, mixing with salt and black pepper.

Allow the mixture to simmer and meld for 5 minutes, letting tomatoes break down and release their tangy sweetness.

Pour creamy coconut milk, stirring to create a luscious sauce.

Let the curry bubble softly for 5-7 minutes, developing complex layers of flavor.

Step 3: Dance with Succulent Seafood

Slide plump shrimp into the bubbling curry.

Cook for 5 minutes until shrimp transform to a beautiful pink and reach perfect tenderness.

Squeeze fresh lime juice, brightening the entire dish.

Taste and adjust seasonings as your palate desires.

Step 4: Celebrate Culinary Creativity

Scatter fresh cilantro leaves across the surface.

Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice or warm, pillowy naan bread.

Coconut Shrimp Curry Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy coconut shrimp curry whisks diners straight to coastal Indian kitchens with its rich, aromatic blend of tender prawns and silky sauce. Fragrant spices and coconut milk promise a delectable journey that satisfies all tropical seafood cravings.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 small bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup baby spinach or kale
• ½ cup frozen peas

Base and Spices:

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or olive oil)
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (or chili powder for heat)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala (optional, for extra depth)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Liquids and Additional Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz / 400 milliliters) can full-fat coconut milk
• 1 (14.5 oz / 411 grams) can diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• Juice of ½ lime (for brightness)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Warm a spacious skillet with coconut oil at medium temperature, creating a fragrant cooking environment.
2. Gently transform chopped onions into translucent, softened morsels through careful sautéing for approximately 3-4 minutes.
3. Introduce minced garlic and freshly grated ginger, allowing their aromatic essence to permeate the oil for about 30 seconds.
4. Sprinkle an ensemble of ground spices – turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, and garam masala – dancing them across the pan to awaken their robust flavors.
5. Incorporate tomato paste and diced tomatoes, seasoning with salt and black pepper, then allow the mixture to gently simmer and break down for 5 minutes.
6. Stream coconut milk into the developing sauce, stirring carefully to create a harmonious, creamy consistency and let it mature for 6-7 minutes.
7. Nestle raw shrimp into the fragrant curry, allowing them to cook until they transform into tender, pink morsels – approximately 5 minutes.
8. Brighten the dish with a zesty squeeze of fresh lime juice, tasting and adjusting seasonings to personal preference.
9. Scatter vibrant cilantro leaves across the surface as a final flourishing touch.
10. Present the curry atop steamed rice or accompanied by warm, pillowy naan bread, ready to be savored.

Notes

• Balance shrimp cooking time carefully to prevent rubbery texture, removing them from heat immediately once they turn pink and opaque.
• Toast whole spices before grinding to intensify their aromatic flavors and create deeper, more complex curry profile.
• Customize heat levels by adjusting chili powder or adding fresh chopped green chilies according to personal spice tolerance.
• Choose wild-caught shrimp for better sustainability and more robust seafood flavor compared to farm-raised varieties.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 200 mg