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Inspired Creamy Coconut Shrimp

Inspired Creamy Coconut Shrimp is a delightful seafood dish that combines tender, juicy shrimp with a rich and creamy coconut sauce. The coconut flavor pairs perfectly with the shrimp, offering a tropical twist to this deliciously indulgent dish. This dish is ideal for a special dinner, as an appetizer for a gathering, or even as a quick weeknight meal. The combination of savory and sweet flavors, alongside the creamy coconut base, makes this shrimp dish a standout in any meal lineup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for richness)
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk creates a rich and creamy base for the sauce, giving the dish its tropical flavor and smooth texture.
  • Shrimp: The shrimp are the star of the dish—cooked just right, they provide a tender and juicy contrast to the creamy coconut sauce.
  • Lime Juice: The lime juice adds a refreshing acidity that balances the richness of the coconut milk, giving the dish a fresh, bright flavor.
  • Spices: Ground ginger, turmeric, and red pepper flakes give the dish a touch of warmth, depth, and heat (if you choose to add the red pepper flakes).

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp and Sauce:

  1. Cook the Shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Make the Coconut Sauce: Pour in the coconut milk, then add the ground ginger, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 5-6 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  4. Combine the Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat the shrimp in the coconut sauce. Let everything simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the shrimp to absorb the flavors.
  5. Finish the Dish: Stir in the lime juice and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if desired. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and shredded coconut, if using.

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