Picture this: it’s a warm evening, and the sun is dipping low in the sky, painting the world in golden hues. The air is filled with an intriguing aroma that’s a mix of spices and the ocean—a scent that beckons you to the kitchen. This is the moment I discovered Jamaican Curry Shrimp, a vibrant dish that transports you straight to the Caribbean with every savory bite.
I remember the first time I tried this delightful recipe after a long week of fast food cravings; I was on a mission for something fresh and comforting. As I peeled and deveined the shrimp, the anticipation grew—would it live up to the hype? Spoiler alert: it did. The combination of coconut milk and scotch bonnet pepper creates a rich, creamy sauce that’s irresistible, while the colorful peppers add a sweet crunch that lightens the dish.
Not only is this recipe incredibly easy to whip up—taking just 25 minutes from start to finish—but it also dazzles when served over rice or with crusty bread. Trust me, your taste buds will be thanking you for this culinary escape! Let’s dive into the recipe that will brighten your dinner table and banish those fast-food blues!
Why is Jamaican Curry Shrimp a Must-Try?
Vibrant, Flavorful Experience: This dish combines spicy scotch bonnet pepper with creamy coconut milk for a tantalizing sauce that dances on your palate.
Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from prep to table, you can indulge in** homemade goodness** without fuss!
Crowd-Pleasing Option: This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it over fluffy rice, alongside bread, or even as a filling for tacos. Get creative!
Fresh Ingredients: Packed with colorful veggies and fresh herbs, this dish not only tastes great but looks beautiful on your plate.
Let your taste buds travel the world with this Jamaican delight!
Jamaican Curry Shrimp Ingredients
• Dive into this delightful dish with these key ingredients!
For the Shrimp
• Raw Shrimp – 1 lb, peeled and deveined; fresh shrimp will give you the best flavor and texture!
For the Seasoning
• Curry Powder – 2 tsp, plus 1 tbsp; the perfect spice to bring a warm, rich taste to your sauce!
• Garlic Powder – 1/2 tsp; adds a hint of savory depth to the shrimp.
• Salt – 1/2 tsp, more or less to taste; enhances all the wonderful flavors in the dish.
• Black Pepper – 1/2 tsp; a touch of heat that complements the curry!
For Cooking
• Olive Oil – 1 tbsp; a heart-healthy choice for sautéing the ingredients.
• Butter – 1 tbsp; adds richness and helps with browning the veggies.
For the Veggies
• Green Bell Pepper – 1/2 medium, finely diced or julienned; brings a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
• Red Bell Pepper – 1/2 medium, finely diced or julienned; sweet flavor that balances the spice.
• Onion – 1 small, finely diced or julienned; a classic base for flavor!
• Green Onion – 1 stalk, finely sliced; for that fresh herbal crunch.
• Garlic – 3-4 cloves, minced; the more garlic, the better!
For Aromatics
• Fresh Thyme – 1-2 sprigs; a fragrant herb that enhances the Jamaican flavors.
• Scotch Bonnet Pepper – 1, or 1 tsp of Hot Pepper Sauce; adjust for your spice preference—this is where the heat comes from!
For the Sauce
• Coconut Milk – 1 (400ml) can; adds creaminess and a tropical twist to your Jamaican Curry Shrimp.
• Ketchup – 1 tbsp, optional; adds a hint of sweetness, balancing the spice if desired.
For Thickening
• Cornstarch – 3 tsp; helps to achieve that perfect, thick consistency for your sauce.
• Cold Water – 3 tsp; to mix with the cornstarch smoothly before adding it to the sauce.
Get ready to savor the aromas and flavors of this unforgettable dish!
How to Make Jamaican Curry Shrimp
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Season the Shrimp:
Start by generously seasoning the shrimp with garlic powder, curry powder, black pepper, and salt. Set them aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you prepare the other ingredients. -
Heat the Oils:
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Cook the curry powder for about 2 minutes until it blooms, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma. -
Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the julienned green and red bell peppers along with the finely diced onion and minced garlic to the saucepan. Sauté until the veggies are soft and their colors brighten, about 3-5 minutes. -
Add Aromatics:
Toss in the sprigs of fresh thyme and the scotch bonnet pepper or hot pepper sauce. Stir well, allowing the spicy aromas to infuse the sautéed vegetables. -
Incorporate Coconut Milk:
Pour in the coconut milk, stirring gently until everything is well-combined. Add the salt and black pepper, and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for approximately 5 minutes to blend the flavors. -
Cook the Shrimp:
Now, introduce the seasoned shrimp into the saucepan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp begin to turn a lovely pink—a sign they’re just about done! -
Thicken the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and cold water until dissolved. Stir this mixture into the sauce if you desire a thicker consistency, ensuring it’s well incorporated. -
Let it Simmer:
Continue to let the sauce simmer while stirring occasionally, until it achieves your preferred thickness. Feel free to taste and adjust salt or pepper to suit your palate. -
Final Touches:
Carefully remove the scotch bonnet pepper from the sauce; it’s time to enjoy without the extra heat. Give one last stir before serving! -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove from the stove. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread, and delight in the burst of Caribbean flavors!
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra vibrant touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Jamaican Curry Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Jamaican Curry Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to preserve flavors.
Freezer: Freeze portions of the curry in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating: For reheating, add a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy. Warm it over low heat, stirring frequently.
Avoid Overcooking: When reheating shrimp, be cautious as they can become tough if overcooked. Heat just until warmed through.
Make Ahead Options
These Jamaican Curry Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the shrimp with garlic powder, curry powder, black pepper, and salt up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover and refrigerate to let the flavors deepen. Additionally, you can chop the bell peppers, onions, and garlic up to 3 days ahead and store them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just sauté the prepped veggies, incorporate the seasoned shrimp, and follow the cooking steps as usual. This way, you’ll have delicious homemade Jamaican Curry Shrimp on the table with minimal effort, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
Jamaican Curry Shrimp Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful dish, making it truly yours!
- Vegan Delight: Substitute shrimp with firm tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based option that’s equally satisfying.
- Extra Creamy: Add an additional can of coconut milk or a dollop of Greek yogurt for richer sauce. The creamy texture enhances every bite!
- Spicy Boost: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an added kick. Adjust according to your heat preference!
- Sweet Surprise: Toss in some pineapple chunks or mango slices during cooking for a sweet contrast to the spicy flavors. A tropical twist that delights the palate!
- Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with fresh basil or cilantro instead of thyme for a unique herbaceous flavor profile. Each herb brings its own magic to the dish.
- Nutty Finish: Top with toasted coconut flakes or chopped cashews to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. It’s a fun textural surprise!
- Citrus Zing: A squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice just before serving brightens up the whole dish with a zing of freshness. Perfect for a refreshing finish!
- Colorful Veggies: Boost the nutritional value by adding frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli. Not only do they add color, but they also bring more nutrients to your table!
What to Serve with Jamaican Curry Shrimp?
Picture this: a steaming plate of Jamaican Curry Shrimp, rich and inviting, ready to be paired with the perfect accompaniments for a complete meal.
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Fluffy Rice: A classic combination! The rice soaks up the flavorful sauce, balancing the richness of the curry while adding a comforting texture.
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Crispy Green Salad: Fresh greens with a zesty vinaigrette lend a delightful contrast. The crunch of the veggies and brightness of the dressing will refresh your palate.
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Coconut Rice: For an enhanced tropical experience, serve it with coconut rice. The subtle sweetness complements the savory shrimp perfectly, creating a harmony of flavors.
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Roti or Naan Bread: Soft, warm bread is ideal for scooping up the curry. It’s an interactive way to enjoy every last bit of that luscious sauce!
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Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled zucchini and bell peppers adds a smoky flavor that enhances the dish, while their charred edges bring a satisfying bite.
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Mango Chutney: A touch of sweetness with a hint of spice elevates your plate. This vibrant condiment will brighten up each bite and bring out the best in your shrimp.
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Plantain Chips: For a crunchy side, crispy plantain chips add a delightful texture, introducing a subtle sweetness that balances the spicy notes of the curry.
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Pineapple Salsa: Fresh pineapple salsa brings a refreshing zing with its sweetness, citrusy notes, and joyful splash of color to your meal, making every bite a celebration!
Perfectly complementing your Jamaican Curry Shrimp, these sides will transform a simple dinner into a feast filled with flavors and memories. Enjoy!
Expert Tips for Jamaican Curry Shrimp
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Fresh Shrimp: Use fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Frozen shrimp can work too; just ensure they’re fully thawed and drained.
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Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with half the scotch bonnet pepper or use the hot pepper sauce sparingly. You can always add more if you like it spicy!
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Bloom Your Spices: Cooking the curry powder in oil for 2 minutes before adding other ingredients enhances its flavor, creating a fragrant base for your Jamaican Curry Shrimp.
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Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or snap peas for additional color and nutrients. Just remember to sauté them until they’re tender.
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Sauce Consistency: If the sauce isn’t thick enough for your liking, add the cornstarch mixture gradually, stirring until you reach your desired thickness.
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Taste as You Go: Always taste your curry before serving, and adjust salt or spices as needed. It ensures the perfect balance of flavors!
Jamaican Curry Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Jamaican Curry Shrimp?
I recommend using fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen works too—just ensure they’re completely thawed and drained before cooking.
How should I store leftover Jamaican Curry Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop to preserve the flavors and sauce consistency.
Can I freeze Jamaican Curry Shrimp?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions of Jamaican Curry Shrimp in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. I often add a splash of coconut milk or water to the sauce while reheating to keep it creamy!
What if my sauce is too thin after cooking?
No worries! If your sauce isn’t thick enough, combine 3 teaspoons of cornstarch with 3 teaspoons of cold water in a small bowl until dissolved, then stir it into the sauce. Let it simmer for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your liking.
How do I adjust the spice level in Jamaican Curry Shrimp?
For a milder version, start with half of the scotch bonnet pepper or a small amount of hot pepper sauce. Remember, you can always add more heat as you go, so taste while cooking to find the perfect balance for your palate!
Are there any dietary considerations for Jamaican Curry Shrimp?
For those with shellfish allergies, unfortunately, this recipe wouldn’t be suitable. You could try substituting shrimp with firm tofu for a vegetarian option or chicken, adjusting the cooking times accordingly. Always be sure to check ingredient labels for potential allergens like coconut milk or sauces used!
Delicious Jamaican Curry Shrimp with a Spicy Kick!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the shrimp with garlic powder, curry powder, black pepper, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Cook curry powder for about 2 minutes.
- Add green and red bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté until soft, about 3-5 minutes.
- Toss in fresh thyme and scotch bonnet pepper or hot pepper sauce. Stir well.
- Pour in coconut milk, stir gently, and add salt and black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and cold water. Stir into the sauce for thickness if desired.
- Let the sauce simmer until it reaches your preferred thickness. Adjust salt and pepper.
- Remove the scotch bonnet pepper from the sauce. Stir before serving.
- Serve hot over rice or with bread.
