If there’s one dish that never fails to delight both family and friends, it’s Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice. Imagine plump shrimp swimming in a creamy, aromatic coconut curry sauce, accented with pops of ginger and bursts of red bell pepper, all served atop fluffy, fragrant jasmine rice. This recipe balances bright citrus, a hint of sweetness, and warming spice, with a silky texture that feels like pure comfort in every bite. Whether you’re cooking a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing dinner guests, you’ll find this dish not only irresistible but also surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice lies in its straightforward yet vibrant ingredients. Each staple plays a starring role, coming together effortlessly to bring out layers of flavor, texture, and color in every spoonful.
- Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): The star of the show! Quick to cook and always juicy if not overdone.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Provides a luscious base for sautéing aromatics, infusing flavor into the curry.
- Coconut milk (1 can, 14 oz): Delivers silky richness and a subtle sweetness that defines the curry sauce.
- Red curry paste (2 tbsp): Packs a punch of authentic Thai spice and aroma—adjust to taste for heat!
- Fish sauce (1 tbsp): Adds depth and umami, balancing the sweetness of the coconut milk.
- Lime juice (1 tbsp): Brightens the curry, cutting through the richness with citrusy zing.
- Brown sugar (1 tsp): Just a touch for subtle sweetness to round out the flavors.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Essential for a savory backbone in the curry’s flavor profile.
- Ginger (1-inch piece, grated): Infuses fresh, aromatic warmth that elevates the sauce.
- Red bell pepper, sliced (1): Adds tender-crisp texture and a splash of vibrant color.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning—taste and adjust as you go.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish): Offers a pop of color and a final note of freshness.
- Jasmine rice (2 cups): Delivers a soft, fragrant cushion for the saucy shrimp to shine.
- Water (4 cups): Needed for perfectly steamed rice—neither mushy nor dry.
- Pinch of salt (for rice): Lifts the naturally sweet aroma of jasmine rice.
How to Make Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice
Step 1: Cook the Jasmine Rice
Start by rinsing your jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs almost clear—this step ensures fluffy, separate grains and removes any excess starch. Combine the rice, water, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan, then bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover tightly, and let the rice simmer for 15 minutes. Resist the urge to peek! After the timer dings, remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, covered, for another 5 minutes so the steam can finish its magic.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics for the Curry
In a large, deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Toss in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger, stirring for a minute or two until incredibly fragrant—don’t let them brown. This foundation sets the stage for flavor, unlocking the essential oils that will infuse your curry.
Step 3: Build the Curry Sauce
Spoon in the red curry paste and stir gently, allowing it to bloom in the hot oil. Once aromatic, pour in the creamy coconut milk, followed by fish sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes—this is where those delectable flavors begin to meld into a memorable, deep curry.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Shrimp
Toss the sliced red bell pepper into the simmering curry sauce, giving it a few minutes to soften. Now, add the shrimp in a single layer, seasoning gently with salt and pepper. Continue to cook for about 3–5 minutes, turning the shrimp once, until they’re pink, curled, and just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook—shrimp go from tender to rubbery fast!
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Fluff the jasmine rice with a fork, then divide it between plates or bowls. Generously spoon the rich coconut curry shrimp over the rice, making sure each serving gets plenty of sauce and bell peppers. Finish with a generous handful of chopped fresh cilantro for an extra burst of color and flavor.
How to Serve Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice
Garnishes
A final sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro takes Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice from everyday comfort to eye-catching elegance. For bonus brightness, a wedge or two of lime on the side adds a pop of color and lets everyone add extra zing to taste. A scatter of thinly sliced green onions or toasted coconut flakes can elevate your presentation and flavor for special occasions.
Side Dishes
While Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice is a complete meal in itself, you can round out the table with quick-steamed snap peas, stir-fried green beans, or a simple cucumber salad to offer a cooling counterpoint to the curry’s warmth. A crisp, tangy slaw or a pineapple salsa would also pair beautifully and add a fun tropical twist.
Creative Ways to Present
Change things up by serving the curry and rice family-style in a big, shallow platter, letting everyone help themselves. Or, for a dinner party, spoon the jasmine rice into individual bowls, top with shrimp curry, and artfully arrange the garnishes. For a festive touch, serve everything in hollowed-out coconut shells, making the Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice the instant star of your table!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, cool them down quickly and store the Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The rice and curry can be stored together or separately, but separating them preserves the best texture. Expect leftovers to stay fresh for up to 2 days—just be mindful that seafood is at its peak right after cooking.
Freezing
While shrimp itself doesn’t always love the freezer, you can freeze the curry sauce on its own if needed. If you do freeze fully assembled Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice, use freezer-safe containers and try to enjoy within a month for the best flavor and texture. When freezing, let everything cool completely first to prevent any ice crystals from forming.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is gently—in a saucepan over medium-low heat for the curry, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks or overcooks. If reheating rice, add a splash of water and cover it to steam. Microwave works too, though use short bursts and cover the dish with a damp paper towel for best results. Just heat until everything is warmed through; avoid boiling, especially once the shrimp is added.
FAQs
Can I make Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice with frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps avoid extra moisture in your curry sauce.
What can I substitute for red curry paste if I don’t have any?
If you’re out of red curry paste, try a combination of mild chili paste and a dash of ground coriander, cumin, and turmeric for a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, yellow or green curry paste can be used for a delicious twist.
Is this dish very spicy?
The heat level in Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice largely depends on your chosen red curry paste. If you’re spice-sensitive, start with one tablespoon and taste as you go. You can always add a pinch of chili flakes at the end if you like it hotter!
Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?
Yes! Chicken breast, sliced tofu, or even a medley of mixed vegetables holds up wonderfully in the coconut curry sauce. Adjust the cooking time as needed for your chosen protein to ensure everything comes out tender and delicious.
What’s the best way to get fluffy jasmine rice every time?
Rinsing the rice thoroughly and following the rice-to-water ratio is key. Once it’s finished cooking, keep the lid on and let it steam off the heat for a few minutes before fluffing—a simple trick for perfect jasmine rice every time.
Final Thoughts
With its harmonious blend of spice, citrus, and coconut creaminess tossed through plump shrimp and tender jasmine rice, Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Don’t wait for a special occasion—treat yourself and your loved ones to this vibrant, comforting dish, and discover just how easy it is to bring bold flavors to your kitchen tonight!
