Description
Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk
Garlic shrimp in coconut milk is a 20-minute seafood lover’s dream! This dish combines tender shrimp with a creamy garlic coconut sauce, lime juice, and a touch of honey for a perfect balance of flavors. Inspired by tropical cuisine, this recipe is light yet rich in taste, making it an easy yet special dinner to enjoy at home. Serve it over rice or with some fresh bread to soak up the sauce!
1.1 lbs shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp sweet paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
14 oz (400 ml) full-fat coconut milk
2 tsp cornstarch
2 tbsp fish sauce
1 tsp honey
2 tbsp lime juice
2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
Chili flakes, for serving
Directions:
1. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Sear shrimp in hot butter and oil, 1 minute per side. Remove.
3. Sauté garlic and onion, add coconut milk. Stir in cornstarch mixture, fish sauce, honey, and lime juice. Add shrimp back, cook 1 min.
4. Top with cilantro and chili flakes.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Kcal: 184
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results. First, ensure your shrimp are peeled, deveined, and patted dry. In a bowl, toss them with the salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder until evenly coated. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Sear for exactly 1 minute per side—they should be pink but not fully cooked through. Immediately transfer them to a plate.
In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Pour in the full-fat coconut milk. In a small separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of the coconut milk to create a smooth slurry, then whisk this into the pan. This will thicken the sauce. Add the fish sauce, honey, and lime juice, stirring well to combine.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy garlic shrimp is incredibly versatile. For a classic meal, serve it over a bed of steamed jasmine or basmati rice, which absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully. It’s also excellent with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. To make it a more substantial feast, pair it with crusty bread like a baguette or naan for dipping. For a complete dinner plate, add a simple side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or a fresh, tangy salad to cut through the richness.
How-to Summary
Quick summary: Season and sear shrimp (1 min per side), then set aside. Sauté garlic and onion in the same pan. Add coconut milk and a cornstarch slurry to thicken. Flavor with fish sauce, honey, and lime juice. Return shrimp to the pan to finish cooking for 1 minute. Garnish with cilantro and chili flakes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use light coconut milk?
Yes, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For the best texture and flavor, full-fat coconut milk is recommended.
What can I substitute for fish sauce?
You can use soy sauce or tamari for a similar salty, umami depth, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely. Add sliced fresh chilies (like Thai bird’s eye) when sautéing the garlic, or increase the amount of chili flakes used for garnish.
Is it necessary to use cornstarch?
The cornstarch slurry helps thicken the sauce to a luxurious, coating consistency. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can omit it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp: Sear them quickly and remove from the pan. They will finish cooking in the sauce later. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery.
- Using sweetened coconut milk: Ensure you use unsweetened, full-fat coconut milk intended for cooking, not a sweetened beverage version.
- Not patting shrimp dry: Moist shrimp will steam instead of sear, preventing a good texture and flavor development.
- Adding lime juice too early: Adding the lime juice at the end, as directed, preserves its bright, fresh acidity.
Conclusion
This Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk recipe is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can create a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes. The combination of creamy coconut, savory garlic, tangy lime, and sweet shrimp is irresistibly delicious. It’s a flexible, impressive dish perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’re guaranteed a spectacular result every time. Enjoy your culinary trip to the tropics!