Transport your taste buds to the tropics with this Irresistible Thai Coconut Curry with Shrimp. Bursting with bold flavors, this dish features succulent shrimp, creamy coconut milk, and fragrant spices, creating a harmony of taste and aroma that’s sure to delight. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this curry is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Flavorful and Comforting
- Rich and Creamy: The coconut milk base creates a velvety, luxurious texture.
- Bold and Aromatic: Infused with fragrant Thai spices for an authentic experience.
Quick and Versatile
- Fast Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable: Easily adapt to include your favorite vegetables or proteins.
Ingredients
For the Curry Base:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Coconut milk | 1 can (13.5 oz) | Full-fat for a richer flavor. |
| Red curry paste | 2-3 tbsp | Adjust to taste for desired spice level. |
| Fish sauce | 2 tbsp | Adds umami depth. |
| Brown sugar | 1 tbsp | Balances the heat with a hint of sweetness. |
| Lime juice | 1 tbsp | Freshly squeezed for brightness. |
| Chicken or vegetable broth | 1/2 cup | To adjust the curry consistency. |
For the Shrimp:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp (peeled, deveined) | 1 lb | Fresh or frozen (thawed). |
| Salt | To taste | For seasoning the shrimp. |
| Vegetable oil | 1 tbsp | For sautéing. |
For Vegetables:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bell peppers (sliced) | 1 cup | Use red, yellow, or green. |
| Zucchini (sliced) | 1 cup | Adds a fresh crunch. |
| Baby spinach | 2 cups | Stirred in at the end. |
For Garnish:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh cilantro | 2 tbsp | Chopped, for a fragrant finish. |
| Lime wedges | For serving | Optional, for extra zest. |
| Cooked jasmine rice | For serving | Optional, as a base for the curry. |
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Curry Base
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the red curry paste for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the coconut milk, fish sauce, brown sugar, and chicken or vegetable broth.
- Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
- Add the sliced bell peppers and zucchini to the curry base.
- Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Stir in the baby spinach and cook just until wilted.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the curry sauce.
- Adjust seasoning with lime juice, additional fish sauce, or salt as needed.
- Serve the curry over cooked jasmine rice, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice, cilantro, and vegetables elevate the flavors.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Add more or less red curry paste depending on your heat preference.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth.
- Extra Veggies: Include mushrooms, snap peas, or carrots for added texture.
- Creamier Curry: Add a splash of heavy cream for an extra-rich curry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Other Types of Curry Paste?
Yes, yellow or green curry paste can be used, but they will alter the flavor profile.
How Long Does This Dish Keep?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Can I Make This Curry in Advance?
The curry base can be made ahead of time. Add the shrimp and spinach just before serving.
What Can I Serve with This Curry?
Steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice pair beautifully.
Conclusion
Irresistible Thai Coconut Curry with Shrimp is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable. With its creamy coconut base, tender shrimp, and vibrant vegetables, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it tonight and enjoy a taste of Thailand in your own kitchen!