Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk

Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk: A Flavorful, Easy, and Quick Dinner

If you’re looking for a delicious, quick, and exotic dish to elevate your weeknight dinners, this Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk is the perfect recipe! With tender shrimp cooked in a rich, creamy coconut milk sauce, infused with garlic, lime, and a touch of spice, this dish is bursting with flavor. It’s not only simple to make but also comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights when you want something that feels special but doesn’t take much time to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1.1 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small brown onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (14 oz / 400 ml) full-fat coconut milk
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tsp honey
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro (plus more for serving)
• Chili flakes, for serving
• Freshly cracked black pepper, for serving

Directions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:

• In a bowl, combine the shrimp with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Toss to coat evenly and set aside.

2. Prep the Ingredients:

• Mince the garlic, finely chop the onion, and chop the cilantro. Set everything aside so you’re ready to go when it’s time to cook.

3. Sear the Shrimp:

• Heat the butter and oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and sear for 1 minute on each side, until they turn pink but are not fully cooked through.
• Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

4. Sauté the Aromatics:

• Reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the same skillet. Sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the onions are soft and fragrant.

5. Make the Sauce:

• Pour ¾ of the coconut milk into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. In a separate small bowl, combine the remaining coconut milk with the cornstarch, then add this mixture to the skillet.
• Stir in the fish sauce, honey, and lime juice. Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

6. Finish the Dish:

• Stir in the chopped cilantro, then return the seared shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together and let it simmer for an additional 1 minute, just until the shrimp are heated through and cooked.

7. Serve and Garnish:

• Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more fish sauce or lime juice if needed. Serve the dish immediately, topped with extra chopped cilantro, chili flakes, and freshly cracked black pepper for added flavor.

Recipe Notes:

• Coconut Milk: For the best creamy texture, use full-fat coconut milk. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with light coconut milk, though the sauce may be thinner.
• Fish Sauce Substitution: If you’re not a fan of fish sauce, you can replace it with soy sauce or tamari for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you enjoy a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a chopped chili pepper when sautéing the garlic and onions.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 300 kcal per serving

Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk is an elegant and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a quiet night at home. Serve it over steamed rice, quinoa, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the rich coconut sauce. With its quick preparation and bold flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household!

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