Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry

Introduction

Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry is a rich and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of coconut milk, the heat of Thai curry paste, and the succulent taste of shrimp. This dish offers a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors that are characteristic of Thai cuisine.

I first made this curry when I was in the mood for something bold and comforting, and it became an instant favorite. The creamy coconut broth, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, creates a luxurious base for the shrimp, which cook to tender perfection. The combination of flavors is rich yet light, making it the perfect dish to enjoy with a side of rice or noodles.

What’s great about this Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry is how versatile it is—you can adjust the level of spice by adding more or less curry paste, and the dish pairs well with a variety of vegetables for extra flavor. Whether you’re craving something spicy and comforting or looking to impress guests with an exotic dish, this curry is sure to satisfy!

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Special occasions
• Cozy meals
• Seafood lovers
• Lovers of spicy and creamy curries

Why You’ll Love This Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry

Here’s why Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry will quickly become a favorite in your household:

• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The combination of coconut milk and curry paste creates a silky, flavorful sauce that’s both comforting and exotic.
• Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: The shrimp cook quickly in the curry, absorbing the sauce’s flavors while staying tender and juicy.
• Well-Balanced Flavors: The dish offers a wonderful harmony between the heat from the curry paste, the sweetness of the coconut milk, and the aromatic herbs.
• Quick and Easy: This curry comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal.
• Versatile: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables or proteins, such as chicken or tofu, if shrimp isn’t your preferred choice.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas or green beans
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Ingredient Highlights

• Shrimp: Shrimp are a fantastic protein choice for this curry, cooking quickly and taking on the flavor of the sauce while remaining tender.
• Coconut Milk: The rich, creamy coconut milk forms the base of the curry, adding sweetness and a luxurious texture.
• Red Curry Paste: This paste is the heart of the curry, contributing a complex, spicy, and savory flavor that defines the dish.
• Fish Sauce: Fish sauce is a key ingredient in Thai cuisine, adding a salty, umami depth to the curry.
• Vegetables: Bell pepper, zucchini, and snap peas add color, crunch, and a fresh contrast to the richness of the curry.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry:

Prepare the Curry:

1. Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened.
2. Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Curry Paste: Stir in the red curry paste, letting it cook for 2 minutes to release its flavors.
4. Pour in Coconut Milk and Broth: Add the coconut milk and chicken (or vegetable) broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Season the Curry: Stir in the fish sauce, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as necessary, adding more fish sauce for saltiness or sugar for sweetness.

Add Vegetables and Shrimp:

6. Add the Vegetables: Toss in the bell pepper, zucchini, and snap peas, letting them cook for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften but remain slightly crisp.
7. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the curry and simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them.
8. Adjust the Consistency: If the curry is too thick, add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. If you like it spicier, add more curry paste or a pinch of chili flakes.

Serve the Curry:

9. Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the curry with freshly chopped cilantro.
10. Serve: Serve the curry over cooked rice or noodles and squeeze lime wedges over the top for a burst of fresh flavor.

How to Serve Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry

Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry is a deliciously versatile dish that pairs well with many options:

• With Rice or Noodles: The creamy curry is perfect for soaking up with steamed jasmine rice or your favorite noodles.
• As a Main Course: Serve it as a standalone main dish, especially if you’ve loaded it up with plenty of shrimp and vegetables.
• With a Side Salad: Pair it with a simple Thai-inspired salad with fresh herbs, lime, and peanuts for a refreshing contrast.
• With Flatbread: Soft flatbreads or naan can also be used to scoop up the curry.

Additional Tips for Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry

Here are some tips to ensure your Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry turns out perfect:

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will yield the best flavor and texture in this dish. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them properly.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you like it spicier, add extra red curry paste or even a sliced chili pepper.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so be sure to only cook them until they turn pink. Overcooking them will result in a rubbery texture.
• Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: For the best flavor and creaminess, opt for full-fat coconut milk. Light coconut milk won’t provide the same rich texture.
• Try Different Vegetables: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand, such as adding eggplant, mushrooms, or carrots.
• Make it Vegan: For a vegan version, swap the shrimp with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Recipe Variations for Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry

Here are 10 variations you can try for Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry:

• Thai Chicken Coconut Curry: Replace the shrimp with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts for a hearty variation.
• Thai Beef Coconut Curry: Use thinly sliced beef instead of shrimp for a richer, more savory option.
• Vegan Thai Coconut Curry: Swap the shrimp for tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version.
• Spicy Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry: Add extra red curry paste or sliced fresh chili peppers to turn up the heat.
• Thai Green Curry: Use green curry paste instead of red curry paste for a different flavor profile and vibrant green color.
• Thai Pineapple Coconut Curry: Add chunks of fresh pineapple to the curry for a sweet and tangy twist.
• Thai Coconut Curry with Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms for extra umami and texture.
• Thai Coconut Curry with Sweet Potatoes: Swap in sweet potatoes for a creamy and slightly sweet addition to the curry.
• Thai Coconut Shrimp Soup: Add more broth and serve this curry as a soup with rice noodles for a lighter version.
• Thai Coconut Curry with Lemongrass: Add a stalk of bruised lemongrass to the curry for a fragrant citrusy undertone.

Freezing and Storage for Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry

• Freezing: You can freeze leftover curry for up to 3 months. Let the curry cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
• Storage: Store any leftover curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick.

Special Equipment for Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry easier:

• Large Skillet or Wok: A wide skillet or wok ensures even cooking of the shrimp and vegetables.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurately measuring your curry paste, fish sauce, and other ingredients.
• Grater or Zester: A fine grater is useful for grating fresh ginger and other spices.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables and prepping shrimp.
• Lime Squeezer: A handy tool to easily squeeze lime juice without making a mess.
• Rice Cooker or Steamer: For perfectly cooked rice to serve with your curry.

Frequently Asked Questions for Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the curry.
2. Can I make this dish spicier?
   Yes, you can add more red curry paste, fresh chilies, or chili flakes to increase the spice level to your liking.
3. Can I use light coconut milk?
   While light coconut milk can be used, it won’t give the same creamy texture as full-fat coconut milk.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make the curry ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as carrots, eggplant, or baby corn.

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Conclusion

Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry is the perfect balance of rich, creamy coconut milk and vibrant, aromatic flavors. The succulent shrimp soak up the curry paste, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. This dish is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also versatile—tailor it to your taste by adjusting the level of spice or adding extra vegetables for a personal touch.

Whether you’re enjoying a cozy meal at home or serving it at a dinner party, this curry is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Serve it with steamed rice or noodles, and you’ve got a complete, delicious meal!

I’d love to see how your Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry turns out! Snap a picture, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your tasty creations. Happy cooking!