Description
This creamy coconut shrimp recipe is a rich, flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with a velvety coconut milk sauce. With hints of garlic, ginger, and lime, this tropical-inspired seafood meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tbsp oil (coconut or olive oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 tsp curry powder (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp – If needed, clean and devein the shrimp. For extra tenderness, soak shrimp in baking soda and water for 15 minutes, then rinse well.
- Sauté Aromatics – Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic, onion, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Add Coconut Milk – Pour in the coconut milk and stir well. Let it simmer for 5 minutes. If the sauce is too thin, mix cornstarch with water and stir it in to thicken.
- Cook the Shrimp – Add the shrimp to the sauce. Cook for 3–5 minutes, flipping once, until pink and opaque.
- Finish with Lime – Stir in lime juice and season with salt and pepper. Let everything simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve – Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Notes
- How to make my coconut milk creamy? Use full-fat coconut milk, shake the can well before opening, and let the sauce simmer to reduce.
- Why do you soak shrimp in milk before frying? It helps remove any strong seafood smell and makes the shrimp slightly tender.
- What to serve with creamy coconut shrimp? Jasmine rice, coconut rice, or garlic butter noodles pair perfectly.
- If you love spice, add chopped chili peppers or extra red pepper flakes for heat.
- For a Thai-style twist, add Thai red curry paste and a splash of fish sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: Asian