The Best Thai Inspired Creamy Coconut Shrimp Recipe Ever Made

Creamy coconut shrimp dance with vibrant Thai flavors in a dish that whispers comfort and excitement.

Fragrant lemongrass and ginger weave magic through succulent seafood bathed in silky sauce.

Tender shrimp absorb complex aromatics from southeast asian culinary traditions.

Fresh herbs and zesty lime brighten each delectable bite.

Delicate spices create a symphony of taste that feels both familiar and exotic.

Bright colors and rich textures promise a culinary adventure waiting on your plate.

Jump into this recipe and let your kitchen become a tropical paradise.

Why This Coconut Shrimp Stands Out

• Indulge in Decadent Layers: A luxurious dessert that combines rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and sweet cherries for a truly spectacular treat.
• Minimal Prep, Maximum Pleasure: Simple mixing and baking steps make this impressive dessert accessible to bakers of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced home cooks.
• Crowd-Pleasing Celebration Dessert: Perfect for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or dinner parties where you want to wow guests with a show-stopping dessert that looks professionally made.
• Flexible Make-Ahead Magic: Can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, reducing last-minute stress and allowing flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

What’s in Thai Creamy Coconut Shrimp

• Shrimp: Fresh and succulent seafood that serves as the main protein of this Thai-inspired dish.

• Garlic, Ginger, Onion: Fragrant ingredients that provide a deep, complex flavor base for the sauce.
• Red Bell Pepper: Adds a sweet and colorful crunch to the dish.

• Red Curry Paste: Brings a spicy and authentic Thai flavor profile to the recipe.
• Coconut Milk: Creates a rich and creamy sauce with a signature tropical taste.
• Fish Sauce: Adds a savory umami depth to the overall dish.
• Brown Sugar: Balances the spicy and savory elements with a touch of sweetness.
• Lime Juice: Provides a bright, citrusy acidity to cut through the richness.
• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance the overall taste.

• Coconut Oil: Used for sautéing and adding a subtle coconut flavor.

• Cilantro: Fresh herb that adds a pop of color and herbaceous flavor.
• Jasmine Rice: Soft, fragrant rice that serves as the perfect base for the creamy shrimp.

How to Make Thai Coconut Shrimp Easily

Step 1: Warm Up the Cooking Surface

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle in coconut oil, allowing it to spread evenly across the pan’s surface.

Step 2: Create a Fragrant Base

• Minced garlic
• Freshly grated ginger
• Diced onion

Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes wonderfully fragrant.

Step 3: Introduce Colorful Vegetables

Toss in sliced red bell pepper and cook for approximately 3 minutes, allowing the vegetable to soften slightly and retain a slight crunch.

Step 4: Boost the Flavor Profile

Sprinkle red curry paste into the skillet and stir vigorously for 1 minute, ensuring the paste is fully incorporated and its spices are activated.

Step 5: Create a Luscious Sauce

• Creamy coconut milk
• Savory fish sauce
• Sweet brown sugar

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Cook the Seafood

Add shrimp to the simmering sauce and cook until they turn a beautiful pink color and are completely opaque, which typically takes about 4-5 minutes.

Step 7: Final Flavor Enhancement

Squeeze fresh lime juice into the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine all flavors.

Step 8: Plate and Garnish

Serve the creamy shrimp over fluffy jasmine rice and sprinkle with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of brightness.

Helpful Notes for Thai Coconut Shrimp Dish

• Choose fresh, large shrimp for the best texture and flavor in this Thai-inspired dish.
• Adjust the red curry paste amount to control spice level, adding gradually for personal heat preference.
• Swap shrimp with tofu or chicken to create a versatile protein option for different dietary needs.
• Let the sauce simmer gently to develop rich, complex flavors and prevent coconut milk from separating.
• Use fresh lime juice for a bright, zesty finish that enhances the creamy coconut sauce.

Flavor Combos for Thai Coconut Shrimp

• Tropical Mango Fusion: Replace red bell pepper with diced fresh mango for a sweeter, fruity profile that complements the shrimp's delicate flavor.
• Spicy Green Chili Version: Swap red curry paste with green curry paste and add chopped green chilies for an intense, vibrant heat that awakens the palate.
• Mediterranean Herb Remix: Substitute fish sauce with white wine, add oregano and thyme, and finish with crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired coastal experience.
• Coconut Lime Cilantro Blast: Increase lime juice, add extra fresh cilantro, and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for an enhanced citrusy and aromatic version.

Best Way to Serve Thai Coconut Shrimp Dish

• Tropical Beachside Feast: Serve this creamy coconut shrimp over fluffy jasmine rice, creating a stunning plate that transports diners to a Thai coastal paradise. Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro and sliced green onions for vibrant color and extra flavor burst.
• Appetizer Party Platter: Transform the dish into bite-sized servings using small skewers or toothpicks. Arrange on a beautiful platter with extra sauce for dipping, perfect for entertaining guests who love exploring global cuisine.
• Quick Lunch Bowl: Pack the shrimp and sauce in a portable container with separated rice. Quickly reheat at work or during a busy day, enjoying a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.

How to Store Creamy Coconut Shrimp

• Transfer leftover shrimp to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep the rice separate to prevent sogginess.
• Cool the shrimp completely, then place in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat to maintain moisture. Add a splash of coconut milk if the sauce seems dry. Avoid microwave reheating to prevent rubbery shrimp texture.

FAQs

• Are red curry paste and fish sauce essential for this recipe?

Red curry paste adds depth and authentic Thai flavor, while fish sauce provides umami and saltiness. If unavailable, you can substitute with sriracha and soy sauce, though the taste will be slightly different.

• What type of shrimp works best for this dish?

Medium to large-sized raw shrimp are ideal. Ensure they are peeled and deveined for easier eating. Fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor and texture compared to frozen.

• Can I make this recipe spicy or mild?

Absolutely! Adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the amount of red curry paste. Start with less and add more gradually to control spice level according to your preference.

Thai Inspired Creamy Coconut Shrimp Recipe

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4.8 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy coconut shrimp recipe brings Southeast Asian flavors to your dinner table. Succulent prawns swim in rich coconut milk sauce, delivering complex spices and delightful textures you’ll savor with each delectable bite.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb (454 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 can (13.5 oz or 400 ml) full-fat coconut milk
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) red curry paste
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) fish sauce
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) coconut oil
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) fresh ginger, grated
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 tsp (5 ml) brown sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

1. Warm coconut oil in a spacious skillet at medium temperature until it shimmers slightly.
2. Introduce minced garlic, grated ginger, and diced onion, allowing them to dance and release aromatic flavors for 2-3 minutes.
3. Incorporate vibrant red bell pepper, sautéing until it softens and becomes slightly translucent.
4. Blend in rich red curry paste, stirring vigorously to activate its deep, complex flavors.
5. Stream coconut milk, splash fish sauce, and sprinkle brown sugar into the pan, creating a harmonious sauce that gently bubbles.
6. Carefully nestle shrimp into the simmering liquid, cooking until they transform from translucent to a beautiful coral pink, approximately 3-4 minutes.
7. Finish the dish with a bright squeeze of fresh lime juice, then delicately season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Transfer the fragrant, creamy mixture over fluffy jasmine rice, crowning the plate with a generous handful of fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of herbaceous freshness.

Notes

• Swap coconut oil with vegetable or olive oil if unavailable, maintaining the same cooking temperature for consistent flavor.
• Reduce red curry paste for milder palates, adjusting spiciness to personal preference without compromising the dish’s authentic taste.
• Use frozen shrimp as a convenient alternative, thawing completely and patting dry to prevent excess moisture during cooking.
• Transform into a vegetarian version by replacing shrimp with firm tofu or mixed vegetables like zucchini and eggplant, preserving the creamy coconut sauce’s rich essence.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Thai

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 290 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 420 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 21 g
• Cholesterol: 195 mg