Embrace the Exotic with Microwave Coconut Curry Shrimp!

Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts! Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a recipe that’s not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly convenient to whip up – Microwave Coconut Curry Shrimp! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for quick and delicious meals that don’t skimp on taste. Well, my friends, this dish ticks all the boxes and then some. I’d estimate that the entire process could be completed in about 15-20 minutes. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a delicious meal without a lot of fuss!

Why Microwave?

Before we dive into the recipe itself, let’s address the elephant in the room – why microwave? I know what you’re thinking, microwaves are for reheating leftovers, right? Wrong! Microwaving is actually a fantastic cooking method for certain dishes, especially when time is of the essence. It’s fast, efficient, and retains the flavors and nutrients of your ingredients surprisingly well.

The Magic of Coconut Curry

Now, onto the star of the show – coconut curry! This rich and aromatic sauce hails from the exotic lands of Southeast Asia, boasting a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds on a culinary journey. With its creamy coconut base infused with fragrant spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander, coconut curry is a true flavor bomb that pairs perfectly with succulent shrimp.

Just FYI but you can get these ingredients right from your local stores:

Shrimp: Most grocery stores have a seafood section where you can find fresh or frozen shrimp. Look for shrimp that are peeled and deveined if you prefer to skip that step.
Coconut Milk: Coconut milk is typically found in the international foods aisle or the Asian foods section of the store.
Curry Paste: Curry paste can often be found in the same aisle as other Asian ingredients or in the international foods section.
Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, garlic, and ginger can be found in the produce section of the store.
Rice: Rice is usually located in the grains or international foods aisle.

Read on to learn how you can become a expert microwave chef for this dish. So let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Shrimp: Opt for fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined.
Coconut Milk: Look for quality coconut milk for that luscious creaminess.
Curry Paste: Whether store-bought or homemade, curry paste is the heart of this dish.
Vegetables: Get creative with your veggie selection – bell peppers, peas, and spinach all work wonders.
Aromatics: Don’t forget the garlic, ginger, and onions for that irresistible aroma.
Rice: Serve your curry shrimp over fluffy white rice or fragrant basmati for the perfect pairing.

The Recipe:

Step 1: Prep Work

Peel and devein the shrimp if necessary. (Or as stated earlier you can buy peeled and deveined shrimp at your store)
Chop your veggies into and mince the garlic and ginger.
Here’s a general guide on how to chop common vegetables for Microwave Coconut Curry Shrimp:

Bell Peppers:
1. Start by washing the bell pepper under cold water.
2. Cut off the stem end and discard it.
3. Slice the pepper in half vertically and remove the seeds and white membranes.
4. Lay each half flat on the cutting board, then slice into thin strips lengthwise.
5. Finally, chop the strips into smaller pieces, according to your desired size.
Onions:
1. Peel the onion and cut off both ends.
2. Cut the onion in half vertically.
3. Lay each half flat on the cutting board and make horizontal cuts across the onion, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Turn the onion and make vertical cuts, again being careful not to cut all the way through.
5. Finally, chop the onion by making downward cuts perpendicular to the previous cuts, resulting in evenly diced pieces.
Garlic:
1. Peel the garlic cloves and place them on the cutting board.
2. Crush each clove with the flat side of a chef’s knife to release the skin.
3. Finely mince the garlic cloves with a sharp knife or use a garlic press for convenience.
Ginger:
1. Peel the ginger using a vegetable peeler or the edge of a spoon to remove the skin.
2. Slice the ginger into thin rounds or strips.
3. Stack the slices and cut them into matchsticks.
4. Finally, chop the matchsticks into small pieces for use in the recipe.
By following these chopping techniques, you can ensure that your vegetables are prepared correctly for Microwave Coconut Curry Shrimp. Adjust the size of the chop according to your preference and the texture you desire in the final dish.

Step 2: Microwave the Curry Base

In a microwave-safe dish, combine coconut milk, curry paste, minced garlic, and ginger.
Microwave on high for 2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Step 3: Add the Shrimp and Vegetables

Stir in the shrimp and your choice of vegetables.
Microwave for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Spoon the coconut curry shrimp over a bed of your favorite rice.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime or lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.

Suggestions for Serving:

Customize your Microwave Coconut Curry Shrimp by adding your favorite vegetables such as peas, cubed potatoes, spinach, or even sliced carrots.
For a heartier meal, serve the curry shrimp over cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
Experiment with different protein options like chicken or tofu for a delicious variation.
If you like it spicy, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha sauce before serving.
Don’t forget to pair this dish with your favorite beverage – whether it’s a refreshing iced tea, a crisp white wine, or a cold beer, there’s a perfect match for every palate.

By incorporating these suggestions, you can enhance your dining experience and make Microwave Coconut Curry Shrimp even more enjoyable!

Before you go, don’t forget to equip yourself with the proper cooking supplies for your culinary adventures! We’ve handpicked the best cooking supplies available, ensuring they’re BPA-free and perfect for microwave cooking. Head over to Amazon to explore these essential tools and elevate your cooking experience. With these top-rated supplies by your side, you’ll be all set to whip up delicious dishes like Microwave Coconut Curry Shrimp with ease. Happy cooking!