Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice Recipe
If you are craving a dish that is bursting with tropical flavors and comforting warmth, then Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice is exactly what you need on your dinner table. This recipe brings together tender, juicy shrimp swimming in a luscious, creamy coconut curry sauce, perfectly complemented by the fragrant, fluffy jasmine rice. It’s a beautiful balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy notes that make every bite a little celebration. Whether you crave an easy weeknight dinner or want to impress guests with a vibrant, soul-satisfying meal, this Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential to create that perfect harmony of flavors, colors, and textures. Each element plays its part in building the rich coconut curry sauce and tender shrimp that define this dish.
- Shrimp (1/2 lb peeled and deveined): The star protein that cooks quickly and absorbs all the wonderful curry flavors.
- Olive oil or coconut oil (1 tbsp): Provides a subtle richness and helps cook the shrimp to perfection.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Adds a fragrant pungency that enhances the depth of the curry.
- Fresh ginger (1-inch piece, grated): Brings warmth and a slight zing that balances the creaminess.
- Red or yellow curry paste (1 tbsp): The flavor foundation, full of spices and vibrant color.
- Coconut milk (1 cup): Creates the creamy, luscious base of the curry and offers a tropical sweetness.
- Brown sugar (1 tsp, optional): A touch of sweetness that rounds out the spicy and savory flavors.
- Lime juice (1 tbsp): Adds necessary acidity and brightness to lift the entire dish.
- Fish sauce or soy sauce (1 tsp): Brings umami depth and salty balance.
- Red bell pepper (1/2, sliced): Adds color, subtle sweetness, and a crunchy contrast.
- Small onion (1/2, thinly sliced): Provides a mild sweetness and texture variation.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, essential for seasoning through every layer.
- Fresh cilantro (chopped): A fragrant herb that adds a fresh, bright finish as garnish.
- Cooked jasmine rice (1 cup): Aromatic and fluffy, ideal to soak up the flavorful curry sauce.
- Lime wedges (optional): For an extra zesty squeeze before serving.
How to Make Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice
Step 1: Cook the Jasmine Rice
Start by cooking the jasmine rice according to the package instructions. Jasmine rice is prized for its delicate floral aroma and lightly sticky texture, making it the perfect bed for the rich coconut curry shrimp. Keep it warm while you prepare the curry to ensure everything comes together hot and fresh.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat your choice of olive oil or coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook them for just 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make the shrimp rubbery, so keep an eye on them. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
Step 3: Build the Curry Base
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if the pan is dry. Sauté the minced garlic and grated ginger until fragrant, about 1 minute, which releases their incredible aromatics. Then stir in the red or yellow curry paste, cooking it for about 30 seconds. This step intensifies the curry’s flavor and aroma, waking up your taste buds.
Step 4: Add Coconut Milk and Flavorings
Pour in the creamy coconut milk, stirring to blend it smoothly with the curry paste. Add brown sugar if you like a hint of sweetness, then lime juice for brightness, and fish sauce or soy sauce to deepen the salty umami notes. Bring this sauce to a gentle simmer — this is where all those flavors meld into a creamy, fragrant curry.
Step 5: Cook the Vegetables
Add the sliced red bell pepper and thinly sliced onion to the simmering curry sauce. Let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they are just tender but still retain a little crunch. These veggies bring beautiful bursts of color and texture that complement the silky sauce and tender shrimp.
Step 6: Combine Shrimp and Finish
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing them in the coconut curry sauce to coat evenly. Allow them to warm through in the sauce for a minute or two, letting all the flavors mingle. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed, then your Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice is ready to be plated.
How to Serve Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is the classic garnish for this dish, bringing a pop of green and a fresh, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness. Adding a squeeze of lime juice over the top just before serving enhances the brightness and adds a delightful tang that ties everything together beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice already feels like a complete meal, but you could easily complement it with simple sides like steamed vegetables or a crisp cucumber salad. The freshness from raw cucumbers with a hint of chili and lime balances the creaminess of the curry, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the curry shrimp over a bed of jasmine rice molded into neat little domes using a small bowl or ramekin. Garnish with cilantro sprigs and lime wedges alongside for guests to customize their bites. You could also serve this in individual coconut shells or rustic bowls for a tropical vibe that feels festive and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the rice and shrimp curry stored together or separately, whichever you prefer, but combining them allows the flavors to meld more over time.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare it ahead of time. Place the coconut curry shrimp and jasmine rice in separate freezer-safe containers or bags to maintain the texture of the rice. Freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the curry shrimp mixture on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if the sauce has thickened. Warm the jasmine rice separately in the microwave or on the stove with a sprinkle of water to fluff it back up. Avoid overheating the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly and don’t steam. Frozen shrimp work just as well and can make this dish even more convenient.
What kind of curry paste should I use?
Both red and yellow curry pastes are fantastic choices and bring slightly different flavors—red is spicier and bolder, while yellow is milder and earthier. Feel free to choose based on your preferred spice level or what you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Swap the shrimp for firm tofu or chickpeas, and use soy sauce instead of fish sauce. The creamy coconut curry sauce with jasmine rice will still deliver plenty of flavor and comfort.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Definitely! The curry paste packs a good amount of heat, but you can start with less and add more to taste. Adding extra coconut milk also mellows the spiciness if you prefer something more mild.
What is the best way to cook jasmine rice perfectly?
Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Use a 1:1.25 rice-to-water ratio and bring to a boil, then simmer covered on low heat for about 15 minutes. Let it rest off the heat for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice is like bringing a little sunshine and comfort straight into your kitchen. The combination of rich coconut sauce, tender shrimp, and aromatic jasmine rice creates a dish that is both satisfying and exciting. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—it’s quick, rewarding, and sure to become one of your favorite meals to share with family and friends!
