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Creamy Coconut Shrimp: A Luxuriously Rich, Sweet, and Savory Seafood Delight

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  • Author: Julie
  • Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Description

Creamy Coconut Shrimp is a rich and indulgent dish that features succulent shrimp in a velvety coconut sauce. The shrimp are lightly sautéed and then coated in a creamy coconut sauce made with coconut milk, butter, garlic, and a touch of lime juice for a bit of citrusy brightness. This dish is luxuriously smooth, with a mild sweetness from the coconut and a delicate balance of flavors from the garlic and lime. It’s often served with a side of jasmine rice, noodles, or vegetables to complete the meal. Creamy Coconut Shrimp is perfect for those craving something indulgent yet light, offering a delicious combination of creamy texture and tropical flavors that transport you to a warm, beachside getaway.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Coconut Cream Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil: Used for sautéing the aromatics and adding a subtle coconut flavor to the sauce.
  • 1 small onion: Finely chopped. The onion adds sweetness and depth to the coconut sauce.
  • 3 cloves garlic: Minced. Garlic enhances the flavor and complements the coconut.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger: Minced. Ginger adds a fresh, zesty note that lifts the dish and pairs beautifully with coconut.
  • 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk: This forms the base of the sauce, providing a rich, creamy texture and a natural sweetness.
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Adds flavor and helps thin out the sauce to the perfect consistency.
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds a savory umami note to balance the sweetness of the coconut milk.
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice: Brightens the sauce and adds a tangy contrast to the creaminess.
  • 1–2 teaspoons brown sugar: Balances the sweetness of the coconut milk and enhances the overall flavor.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste. Essential for seasoning the sauce and shrimp.
  • 1–2 teaspoons red chili flakes: Optional for a bit of heat. You can adjust the amount to your preference for spiciness.

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 ½ pounds large shrimp: Peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen shrimp work well, though make sure to thaw frozen shrimp before cooking.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the shrimp and giving them a nice sear.
  • Salt and pepper: To season the shrimp before cooking.

Instructions

First Step: SEASON AND COOK THE SHRIMP

  1. Season the Shrimp: Begin by seasoning the shrimp with salt and pepper. Toss them gently to coat evenly. This step ensures that the shrimp are flavorful on their own before they are added to the sauce.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp as they can become tough. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Second Step: MAKE THE COCONUT CREAM SAUCE

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
  2. Add Garlic and Ginger: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step will infuse the oil with a delicious aroma and form the flavor base for the sauce.
  3. Add Coconut Milk and Broth: Pour in the coconut milk and chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the sauce to cook for 5-7 minutes. This will help the flavors blend together and the sauce thicken slightly.
  4. Season the Sauce: Stir in the soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and red chili flakes if you prefer a bit of heat. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the flavors are balanced and the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.

Third Step: COMBINE THE SHRIMP AND THE COCONUT CREAM SAUCE

  1. Return the Shrimp to the Skillet: Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors are well incorporated, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Stir to coat the shrimp with the creamy coconut sauce. Allow the shrimp to simmer in the sauce for 2-3 more minutes, ensuring they are well coated and heated through.
  2. Final Adjustments: If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little more broth or coconut milk to reach your desired consistency. Taste the sauce one last time and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more lime juice for brightness or more chili flakes for heat.

Fourth Step: GARNISH AND SERVE

  1. Garnish: Once everything is well mixed and heated, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of green and a touch of freshness. For added texture and flavor, sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes and serve with lime wedges on the side.
  2. Serve: Serve Creamy Coconut Shrimp over a bed of rice, pasta, or alongside steamed vegetables. The creamy sauce works beautifully with any base, soaking up all the flavors and complementing the shrimp perfectly.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Protein: 30g

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Find it online: https://foodmacronutrient.com/creamy-coconut-shrimp-a-luxuriously-rich-sweet-and-savory-seafood-delight/