Discover the taste of Thailand with our Red Curry Shrimp with Coconut recipe. This Thai cuisine classic is quick and easy, featuring plump shrimp, juicy bell peppers, and a creamy coconut milk sauce. It’s the perfect seafood recipe for busy nights or special dinners, ready in just 30 minutes.
Enjoy a mix of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in every bite. This one-skillet meal is a game-changer, combining the essence of spicy curries with simple ingredients. It’s great for fans of Thai cuisine, seafood recipes, and coconut milk-based dishes.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Red Curry Shrimp
Red Curry Shrimp with Coconut is a delicious Thai dish that combines the richness of a coconut milk sauce with the bold flavors of spicy curries. This seafood recipe is loved for its perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and creamy texture—a true highlight of Thai cuisine.
What Makes This Dish Special?
The taste of Red Curry Shrimp comes from its special mix of ingredients. It has juicy shrimp cooked just right in a creamy coconut milk sauce. The sauce is flavored with Thai red curry paste, garlic, and ginger.
A Brief History of Thai Curry
Thai curry originated centuries ago, shaped by ancient traditions and global influences. The introduction of Indian spices and Persian cooking techniques during the 13th century paved the way for dishes like Red Curry Shrimp with Coconut. Today, it’s a beloved part of Thai cuisine, celebrated for its bold and exotic flavors.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shrimp | 1.5 pounds (31-40/pound size) |
| Coconut Milk | 1 (13.5 ounces) can, full-fat |
| Calories | 452 kcal per serving |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
“Thai curry has evolved to become a culinary centerpiece, blending the unique flavors of the region with global influences.”
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a tasty shellfish dishes, you need a few key ingredients. Fresh, high-quality shrimp is the main ingredient. It should be peeled and deveined for the best taste.
You’ll also need aromatic spices like red curry paste, turmeric, cumin, and coriander. These spices are the base of the curry.
For a creamy base, use unsweetened coconut milk. You can choose between full-fat or lite coconut milk. Full-fat gives a richer taste, while lite is lighter.
Vegetables like bell peppers, garlic, and ginger add flavor and look good in the dish.
Fresh Shrimp Selection
Choose large, sustainably sourced shellfish dishes for the shrimp. They should be peeled and deveined. This makes prep easier and ensures even texture.
For 4 people, you’ll need about 1 pound of shrimp.
Essential Spice Blend
- 2 tablespoons of red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon of ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- Salt and white pepper to taste
Coconut Milk Types
For a creamy curry, use full-fat coconut milk. It makes the curry rich and velvety. Lite coconut milk is a lighter option.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shrimp, peeled and deveined | 1 pound |
| Red curry paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Unsweetened coconut milk | 1 can (13.5 oz) |
| Red bell pepper, sliced | 1 medium |
| Garlic, grated | 3 cloves |
| Ginger, grated | 1 small piece |
| Ground turmeric | 1 tablespoon |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground coriander | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and white pepper | To taste |
Cooking Equipment Required
To make the tasty Red Curry Shrimp with Coconut dish, you need some basic kitchen tools. The right cookware and utensils make cooking smooth and help get the best flavors. This is key for a great Thai-inspired meal.
Recommended Cookware
A large skillet or Dutch oven is the base of this recipe. It lets you sauté shrimp and veggies and simmer the curry sauce just right. A heavy-bottomed pan is best for even heat and to prevent sticking or burning.
Must-Have Utensils
- Wooden spoon: This strong utensil is great for stirring gently and mixing without scratching your cookware.
- Sharp knife: A good chef’s knife or santoku knife makes chopping onions, garlic, and veggies fast.
- Grater: A small handheld grater is key for finely mincing fresh ginger, adding a lively flavor to the dish.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate spice and seasoning measurements are crucial for the perfect flavor balance in your Red Curry Shrimp.
- Colander: A colander is handy for draining and thawing shrimp, getting it ready for cooking.
Other useful tools include a garlic press, a nested magnetic measuring spoon set, and a sturdy ladle for serving. With these kitchen essentials and tools, you’re set to make a delicious and authentic Thai-inspired meal at home.
Preparation Steps
Before diving into the red curry shrimp, it’s key to prepare the ingredients right. Let’s explore the steps to get your seafood and veggies ready for cooking.
Cleaning and Marinating Shrimp
Begin by cleaning and deveining the shrimp. Rinse them under cold water to remove grit or debris. Use a small, sharp knife to make a shallow cut along the back of each shrimp and remove the dark vein. Rinse them again and pat dry with paper towels.
In a medium bowl, mix the shrimp with soy sauce, red pepper flakes, turmeric, garlic powder, and a pinch of white pepper. Toss the shrimp to coat them evenly in the marinade. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes to soak up the flavors.
Chopping Vegetables
While the shrimp marinates, start chopping the veggies. Dice the onion into small pieces. Slice the bell pepper into thin strips. Mince the garlic and jalapeño, and grate the fresh ginger. Get all the veggies ready before cooking to make the process smooth and efficient.
By cleaning, marinating, and chopping the ingredients well, you’re ready for a delicious red curry shrimp dish.
Cooking Methods Explained
To make your Red Curry Shrimp dish taste amazing, you need to master some cooking techniques. Let’s go through the steps to get the perfect mix of cooking techniques and flavor development.
Sautéing Shrimp and Vegetables
Start by sautéing the shrimp in oil and butter over medium-high heat. Cook them for about 1 minute on each side, until they start to turn pink. Then, take the shrimp out of the pan and set them aside.
In the same pan, sauté the bell peppers, garlic, ginger, and shallot. This way, the aromatics can really bring out their flavors.
Combining Flavors with Coconut Milk
Next, add a splash of broth to the pan to loosen the browned bits. This adds more flavor development to your dish. Then, add the Thai red curry paste and spices, letting them cook in the hot oil.
After that, pour in the coconut milk and let it simmer for a few minutes. This will thicken the sauce. Put the seared shrimp back in the pan, add fresh lime juice, and some chopped herbs.
The whole cooking process takes about 20-25 minutes. This ensures the shrimp stays tender and the vegetables are still a bit crunchy. This multi-step method is the key to bringing the bold flavors of Thai cuisine into your kitchen.
“The right cooking techniques can transform even the simplest ingredients into a symphony of flavors.”
Tips for Perfecting Your Dish
Making the perfect red curry shrimp dish needs focus and a few tips. Adjusting the spice and adding fresh herbs can make a big difference. This will help you create a dish that’s truly exceptional.
Achieving the Right Spice Level
Getting the spice just right is all about the red curry paste. Start with 1-2 tablespoons and add more if you like it spicier. For extra heat, add sriracha or your favorite hot sauce. If you prefer it milder, use less jalapeño or skip it.
Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs like Thai basil and cilantro can greatly enhance your dish. Add them towards the end of cooking to keep their flavors bright. The mix of these herbs, coconut milk, and spices will make your dish unforgettable.
Don’t forget to balance the coconut milk with fresh lime juice. For a thicker sauce, try a cornstarch slurry. It’s a natural way to thicken your sauce.
By using these culinary tips and flavor balancing methods, you’ll make a red curry shrimp dish that will wow everyone. It’s sure to impress your taste buds and your guests.
Serving Suggestions
There are many ways to serve your Red Curry Shrimp. Try it over steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles for a classic Thai touch. The coconut sauce will enhance the flavors of the grains or noodles, making every bite a delight.
Ideal Side Dishes
For a complete Thai meal, add some side dishes to your Red Curry Shrimp. A cucumber salad with lime-cilantro dressing is a refreshing choice. Or, try stir-fried vegetables or spring rolls for texture and taste.
Top your dish with fresh herbs like Thai basil or cilantro. Add fried onions and sliced chili peppers for extra flavor. Serving lime wedges on the side lets everyone adjust the tanginess.
| Dish | Description | Serving Size |
|---|---|---|
| Steamed Jasmine Rice | Fluffy, fragrant white rice to soak up the curry sauce | 1 cup per serving |
| Rice Noodles | Chewy rice noodles that pair well with the Thai-inspired flavors | 1/2 cup per serving |
| Cucumber Salad | Refreshing salad with a tangy lime-cilantro dressing | 1/2 cup per serving |
| Stir-Fried Vegetables | Colorful mix of fresh vegetables, sautéed to perfection | 1/2 cup per serving |
| Spring Rolls | Crispy, flavorful spring rolls to complement the curry | 2 rolls per serving |
Pairing your Red Curry Shrimp with these Thai food pairings and complementary dishes will make your meal unforgettable. It’s a celebration of Thai cuisine’s bold and vibrant flavors.
Variations of Red Curry Shrimp
The classic red curry shrimp dish is a favorite in Thai cuisine. But, you can make it your own by trying different versions. Whether you want a vegetarian option or to use different proteins, there are many ways to enjoy it.
Vegetarian Substitutes
For a meat-free version, swap the shrimp with plant-based proteins. Good choices include:
- Firm tofu or tempeh, which soak up the curry flavors well
- A mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or baby bok choy
- Mushrooms, which add a rich, meaty taste
Make sure the ingredients you choose are cooked right and tender.
Alternative Protein Options
If you prefer animal-based proteins, there are great alternatives to shrimp:
- Chicken: Diced or sliced chicken breasts or thighs
- Beef: Thinly sliced or ground beef
- White Fish: Firm, flaky white fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia
Adjust cooking times to ensure the protein is cooked right. For a lighter dish, use light coconut milk instead of full-fat.
No matter the protein you pick, the flavors of this Thai red curry shrimp dish can be tailored to your taste. Try different recipe variations to find your new favorite version of this classic dish.
Storing Leftovers and Reheating
Proper storage and reheating are crucial for enjoying Red Curry Shrimp leftovers. Follow these simple tips to keep the dish’s flavors and textures intact.
Best Storage Practices
Put leftover Red Curry Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. It’s best to separate the curry from the rice or noodles. This stops the grains from getting soggy.
Reheating Tips for Optimal Taste
To warm up your leftovers, gently heat the curry in a saucepan over low heat. Stir it now and then to avoid sauce separation. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of coconut milk or water.
Avoid overheating the shrimp to prevent them from becoming rubbery. Refresh the dish with lime juice and fresh herbs for extra flavor.