Easy Coconut Shrimp Curry: A Quick, Creamy, and Flavorful Weeknight Delight
Prepare to cook an absolutely incredible dinner with minimal effort and common ingredients, thanks to our irresistible Easy Coconut Shrimp Curry recipe. Picture this: plump, succulent shrimp gently simmering in a rich, aromatic coconut curry sauce, ready to be spooned over a fluffy mound of steamy rice. Feeling hungry yet? You should be! Because this delightful shrimp curry not only comes together in record time but also promises to leave you feeling utterly full and deeply content.
Forget the bland, uninspired jarred sauces you might be used to; this homemade curry sauce is so wonderfully flavorful, you’ll be tempted to lick your plate clean! To elevate this shrimp curry experience even further, consider serving it alongside our famously soft and buttery garlic Naan bread. It’s the perfect companion, ideal for soaking up every last drop of that exquisite sauce.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Easy Coconut Shrimp Curry
There are countless reasons why this Easy Coconut Shrimp Curry will quickly become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that delivers big on flavor without demanding hours in the kitchen. Here’s what makes it so special:
- Uncomplicated Ingredients: You won’t need to hunt down obscure spices or exotic vegetables. Most ingredients are likely already in your pantry or easily found at any grocery store.
- Lightning-Fast Preparation: From start to finish, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy evenings when you crave something homemade and delicious but are short on time.
- Explosion of Flavor: Despite its simplicity, the curry boasts a complex and deeply satisfying flavor profile, combining fragrant spices with the rich creaminess of coconut milk.
- Versatile & Adaptable: Easily adjust the spice level to your preference, add extra vegetables, or even swap out the protein. It’s a flexible recipe that caters to your tastes.
- A Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this vibrant and aromatic curry is guaranteed to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Dive into a bowl of this comforting and vibrant curry and discover your new favorite quick meal!
SHRIMP CURRY OR SHRIMP MASALA: An Indian-Inspired Delight
Our unique shrimp curry recipe draws its inspiration from the beloved flavors of our Tikka Masala. We embarked on a culinary journey to create a shrimp version that perfectly combines our passion for exquisite seafood with the rich, aromatic complexity of traditional curry. The result is what we confidently believe to be one of the best shrimp curry recipes you’ll ever have the pleasure of tasting.
While this particular recipe may not lay claim to being an authentic Indian curry in the strictest sense, it masterfully delivers a truly satisfying burst of those classic Indian flavors and spices. Much like our widely adored butter chicken recipe, this dish is designed to hit all the right notes for any curry enthusiast. It’s a harmonious blend of fragrant spices and creamy textures that will undoubtedly tick all of your curry-loving boxes, offering a delightful twist on familiar comforts:
- No Marinating Required: Enjoy incredible depth of flavor without the need for lengthy marinating times. This means less planning and more spontaneity for your dinner plans!
- Fragrant Coconut Milk Infusion: The addition of rich, creamy coconut milk not only adds a luxurious texture but also infuses the entire dish with even MORE incredible flavor, making every bite a delight.
- Ready in Less Than 30 Minutes: Yes, you read that right! This entire culinary masterpiece can be on your table, ready to be savored, in under half an hour. It’s the ultimate speedy gourmet meal!
This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the vibrant spirit of Indian cuisine but are looking for a straightforward, quick-to-prepare meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s a delicious fusion that brings the best of both worlds directly to your kitchen.
HOW LONG DOES SHRIMP TAKE TO COOK for the Perfect Texture?
Achieving perfectly cooked shrimp is key to the success of this curry. For the best results in this shrimp curry recipe, we highly recommend trying to find jumbo-sized shrimp. These larger prawns offer a much meatier and more satisfying bite, enhancing the overall texture of the dish. Whether you choose shrimp with the tails on or off is entirely up to your personal preference; both work wonderfully.
The secret to tender, juicy shrimp lies in precise timing. You only need to cook them for about 1 minute on each side during the initial sear. This quick pan-frying step helps them develop crisp edges and allows the spices they are coated in to bloom and become incredibly fragrant, creating a flavorful base for your curry. After this initial searing, the shrimp will only require an additional 1-2 minutes to finish cooking directly in the simmering sauce. This gentle final cook ensures they absorb all the rich flavors without becoming tough or rubbery – a common pitfall of overcooked shrimp.
Remember, shrimp cook very quickly, and their tenderness is easily compromised by excessive heat. Keeping a close eye on them during these crucial minutes will guarantee a delightful texture that melts in your mouth with every spoonful of this vibrant curry.
WHAT IS THE SECRET TO A GOOD CURRY SAUCE? Unlocking Deep Flavors
The true secret to an exceptional curry lies undoubtedly in its ingredients and, more specifically, in the skillful combination and preparation of spices and aromatics. These elements are absolutely essential for building a truly magnificent curry sauce that excites the palate and leaves a lasting impression.
We kick off the flavor journey by sautéing a trifecta of aromatics: fresh garlic, ginger, and onion. These foundational ingredients provide a pungent and sweet base that steers the flavors in precisely the right direction from the very beginning. Once softened and fragrant, we introduce a symphony of ground spices that deliver the irresistible, classic curry flavors we all know and adore. This includes fragrant garam masala, earthy ground cumin, vibrant turmeric, and aromatic ground coriander.
It’s true that these individual spices can be replaced with a single, mild curry powder you might have forgotten in the back of your kitchen pantry. However, be aware that while convenient, the resulting flavors may not be quite as nuanced or vibrant. Personally, I find immense satisfaction in being able to control the precise balance of each spice. This allows me to fine-tune the flavors to achieve an absolutely perfect and bespoke profile for this creamy shrimp curry sauce, ensuring every spoonful is a burst of deliciousness.
For the luxurious body and creaminess of our best shrimp curry sauce, we rely on a harmonious combination of crushed tomatoes (or Passata for an even smoother consistency) and rich coconut milk or coconut cream. The coconut provides a beautiful sweetness and creamy texture that balances the spices perfectly. Should you find yourself without coconut milk, don’t despair! You can effectively substitute it with other creamy dairy options like heavy cream, thickened cream, or even evaporated milk, though the flavor profile will shift slightly. The key is to achieve that luscious, velvety consistency that makes this curry so comforting and utterly delicious.
HOW DO YOU MAKE CURRY SAUCE FROM SCRATCH? A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating a rich, flavorful curry sauce from scratch might seem daunting, but it’s surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. Follow these steps to build layers of deliciousness for your easy coconut shrimp curry:
- Fry Your Spice-Coated Shrimp First: Begin by searing your shrimp that have been tossed in a medley of spices. This crucial step not only cooks the shrimp partially but also leaves behind a treasure trove of flavor – browned bits and residual spices – in the pan. This forms the foundational base for your exquisite shrimp curry sauce.
- Scrape Up Those Browned Bits: Once the shrimp are set aside, add a combination of butter and oil to the same pan. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to diligently scrape up any of those delectable browned bits (fond) clinging to the bottom of the pan. Remember, browned bits equal concentrated flavor, and incorporating them into your sauce is a game-changer!
- Sauté Your Aromatics and Bloom Spices: Next, add your finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and fresh ginger to the pan. Sauté them gently until they become soft and wonderfully fragrant. This aromatic trio builds the core flavor profile. Then, introduce your dry spices (garam masala, cumin, ground coriander, turmeric) and cook them off for about 20-30 seconds, stirring constantly. This brief frying, known as “blooming,” awakens their essential oils, intensifying their fragrance and deepening their flavor significantly.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes (or smooth Passata for a refined texture), your chosen chili powder for a touch of heat, salt, a touch of brown sugar to balance the acidity and spices, and finally, the luxurious coconut milk or coconut cream. Give it a good stir to combine all the elements.
- Simmer to Perfection: Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for approximately 4 minutes, or until it has slightly thickened to your desired consistency. The flavors will meld and deepen beautifully during this time.
- Stir in Shrimp and Finish Cooking: Gently stir the reserved, partially cooked shrimp back into the simmering sauce. Let them cook for just about 1 more minute, allowing them to finish cooking through and become fully warmed, absorbing the rich flavors of the curry. Be careful not to overcook them!
- Take Off the Heat Immediately and Garnish: As soon as the shrimp are cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Overcooking is the enemy of tender shrimp. Finally, elevate your beautiful shrimp curry with a generous sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of color and vibrant aroma. Serve hot and enjoy!
CAN YOU PUT COOKED PRAWNS IN A CURRY? Absolutely!
Yes, absolutely! If you’re looking to save even more time or happen to have pre-cooked shrimp on hand, you can certainly incorporate them into this curry. This means you can skip the initial step of frying raw shrimp. Instead, prepare your curry sauce right up until it’s simmering and perfectly thickened.
The key here is timing to prevent overcooking. Take the sauce off the heat first before gently stirring in the cooked shrimp. Allowing them to sit in the warm sauce for a couple of minutes is usually sufficient to warm them through without turning them rubbery. This method offers fantastic flexibility for a super-fast meal without compromising on flavor or enjoyment.
WHAT TO SERVE WITH SHRIMP CURRY for a Complete Meal
A delicious shrimp curry deserves equally delightful accompaniments to complete the meal. Here are some of our favorite serving suggestions:
- Rice: The classic pairing! Serve your shrimp curry with a generous portion of freshly cooked, hot plain rice to soak up every drop of that incredible sauce. For an extra layer of flavor, consider our garlic butter rice. Basmati or jasmine rice are excellent choices.
- Naan Bread: Our homemade naan bread is an absolute must! Its soft, chewy texture and buttery garlic flavor make it perfect for scooping up the rich curry sauce.
- Roti or Chapati: If you prefer something lighter than naan, fresh roti or chapati also make fantastic bread accompaniments.
- Cucumber Raita: A cooling cucumber and yogurt raita can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness and spice of the curry.
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add freshness and crunch.
- Steamed Vegetables: For a more wholesome meal, serve with steamed green beans, broccoli, or spinach on the side.
- Mango Chutney: A dollop of sweet and tangy mango chutney can add an exciting dimension to each bite.
Choose one or a few of these suggestions to create a truly memorable and satisfying curry feast!
HOW TO THICKEN CURRY SAUCE (If You Prefer a Richer Consistency)
In this particular recipe, you’ll likely find that the curry sauce naturally achieves a beautiful, luscious thickness. This is thanks to the perfect interplay between the rich, creamy coconut milk (or coconut cream) and the body provided by the crushed tomatoes (or Passata). These ingredients work together to create a sauce that’s wonderfully rich and clings perfectly to the shrimp and rice.
However, if your personal preference leans towards an even thicker, more robust curry, there are a couple of straightforward methods you can employ:
- Add Tomato Paste: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of concentrated tomato paste. This not only adds body but also deepens the savory tomato flavor of the sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes after adding to cook out any raw tomato taste.
- Use a Cornstarch Slurry: A cornstarch slurry is a quick and effective way to thicken almost any sauce. To prepare one, simply dissolve two teaspoons of cornstarch into one tablespoon of cold water, ensuring there are no lumps. Once your curry sauce is simmering, slowly whisk this slurry into the sauce. Continue to simmer gently, stirring occasionally, and you’ll notice the sauce begin to thicken beautifully within a very short time. It won’t take very long at all for it to reach your desired consistency.
Remember to always add thickeners gradually, as it’s easier to add more than to thin out an overly thick sauce.
MORE CREAMY SHRIMP RECIPES TO EXPLORE
If you’ve enjoyed the creamy indulgence of this Easy Coconut Shrimp Curry, you’re in for a treat! We have a delightful collection of other shrimp recipes that embrace rich, velvety sauces, perfect for satisfying your cravings for comforting seafood dishes. Explore these fantastic options for your next meal:
Shrimp in a Piccata Cream Sauce
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Tuscan Shrimp
Shrimp Alfredo with Bacon
Creamy Pesto Shrimp Alfredo
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Easy Coconut Shrimp Curry
Ingredients
SHRIMP:
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric or curry powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 1/2 tablespoons oil divided
- 1 pound jumbo shrimp peeled, tails on or off
SAUCE:
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 2 teaspoons minced ginger
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder or curry powder
- 14 ounces can crushed tomatoes or Passata for a smoother sauce
- 1/2-1 teaspoon red chilli powder adjust to your taste preference
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 13.5 ounces coconut milk or coconut cream, can
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped to garnish
Instructions
For the shrimp:
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For the shrimp, begin by combining the garam masala, ground cumin, turmeric, salt, and red chili powder in a medium bowl. Toss the cleaned jumbo shrimp with this spice mixture and 1 tablespoon of cooking oil until each shrimp is evenly coated. Set this aside to allow the flavors to meld briefly.
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Heat the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if necessary). Sear the shrimp for only 1 minute on each side to get nice crisp edges and allow the spices to bloom. Once seared, immediately transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside; they will finish cooking in the sauce later.
For the sauce:
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In the same large pan or skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of cooking oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and fry until it softens and becomes translucent, which usually takes about 3 minutes. While the onion cooks, use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits (fond) left over from the shrimp on the bottom of the pan – these are packed with flavor!
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Stir in the minced garlic and minced ginger. Sauté them for about 1 minute until they become wonderfully fragrant, being careful not to burn them. Next, add the ground garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, and turmeric powder (or curry powder). Cook these spices, stirring constantly for about 20-30 seconds, until they release their aromatic oils and become incredibly fragrant. This “blooming” step is crucial for depth of flavor.
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Pour in the crushed tomatoes (or Passata for a smoother sauce), add the red chili powder (adjusting to your desired heat level), salt, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine. Finally, add the full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce slightly thickens, typically around 4 minutes.
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Carefully stir the seared shrimp back into the sauce. Allow it to cook for just about 1 more minute, or until the shrimp are fully warmed through and perfectly cooked. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery quickly.
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Immediately remove the pan from the heat to prevent any further cooking of the shrimp. Garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro for a bright, fresh finish. Serve your Easy Coconut Shrimp Curry hot with fresh garlic butter rice and warm, homemade naan bread for a truly unforgettable meal.
Notes
- The Secret to Perfectly Seared Shrimp: This step is SO incredibly important for both flavor and texture! To achieve that beautiful golden-brown sear and prevent your shrimp from becoming mushy, ensure your shrimp are completely dry before cooking. Pat them thoroughly with paper towels. Also, make sure your pan is piping hot when you add them. Cook them in a single layer (work in batches if you need to, to avoid overcrowding!) for just a minute per side. Remember, they will continue to cook more in the sauce later, and overcooked shrimp are our number one enemy for a rubbery texture!
- Wake Up Your Spices with “Blooming”: Don’t just dump the ground spices directly into the wet sauce! The magic truly happens when you fry them in oil with your aromatics for those crucial 20-30 seconds. This process is called “blooming,” and it’s where the heat gently toasts the spices, unlocking their deepest, most aromatic flavors. This simple step makes your curry taste incredibly rich and complex, like it came straight from a top-tier restaurant.
- Full-Fat for Full Flavor and Creaminess: I know I’ve emphasized this before, but it’s absolutely worth repeating! Please, please prioritize using canned, full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream. This is the non-negotiable secret to achieving that unbelievably rich, velvety, and luscious sauce that will have you dreaming about this curry long after your meal is finished. Light coconut milk simply won’t deliver the same decadent texture and depth of flavor.
- Customize the Heat to Make It Your Own: You are the chef in your kitchen! This recipe is incredibly adaptable to your personal spice preference. If you love a good fiery kick, feel free to add a little extra red chili powder. If you prefer things milder, start with less than recommended, or even omit it, and you can always add a pinch more at the end until the heat level is just right for you and your family.
- Fresh Aromatics Make a Difference: While pre-minced garlic or ginger pastes can be convenient, using fresh garlic and ginger will always yield a superior, brighter, and more vibrant flavor in your curry. A few extra minutes of chopping are well worth the effort for the enhanced taste.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your sauce before adding the shrimp. This is your chance to adjust seasonings. Need a little more salt? A touch more sugar to balance the acidity? A bit more chili for heat? Make those tweaks before the final step to ensure your curry is perfectly balanced.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.