Thai

Thai Red Curry Shrimp

Plump shrimp and crisp vegetables simmered in a fragrant red curry coconut sauce with lime and Thai basil.

  • Faster than takeout
  • Creamy coconut curry sauce
  • Customizable heat level
Thai Red Curry Shrimp
Prep
15 min
Cook
20 min
Total
35 min
Serves
4
Level
Easy

A good red curry is all about balance: salty fish sauce, a touch of sugar, sour lime and the warm heat of the curry paste mellowed by coconut milk. We fry the paste in oil first to wake up its aromatics, which makes a store-bought paste taste far more vibrant. Shrimp go in at the very end so they stay tender and juicy. The whole thing is ready faster than takeout and tastes brighter too.

Instructions

  1. Pat the shrimp dry and set aside while you prep the remaining ingredients; this dish moves fast once you start.

  2. Heat the oil in a large deep skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the curry paste and fry, stirring constantly, until fragrant and slightly darkened, about 1 minute.

  3. Add the garlic and ginger and cook 30 seconds more.

  4. Spoon in about 1/2 cup of the thick coconut cream from the top of the can and stir until the paste dissolves and the oil begins to separate, about 2 minutes.

  5. Add the remaining coconut milk and the stock and bring to a gentle simmer.

  6. Stir in the fish sauce and sugar, then add the bell pepper and snap peas. Simmer until the vegetables are crisp-tender, 3 to 4 minutes.

  7. Add the shrimp in an even layer and simmer, stirring once or twice, until they are pink, curled and opaque throughout, 3 to 4 minutes.

  8. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the lime juice and basil leaves until the basil just wilts.

  9. Taste the sauce and adjust: more fish sauce for salt, sugar for sweetness or lime for brightness.

  10. Serve over jasmine rice with lime wedges on the side.

Test kitchen tips

  • Curry pastes vary widely in heat; start with 2 tablespoons if you are using a new brand and add more after tasting.
  • The sauce, without the shrimp, can be made 2 days ahead; reheat to a simmer and cook the shrimp just before serving.
  • Swap the shrimp for cubed firm tofu or thinly sliced chicken thighs, simmering chicken until it reaches 165 degrees F.

Nutrition per serving

Calories
540
Protein
32g
Carbs
50g
Fat
24g
Fiber
3g
Sugar
6g
Sodium
1120mg

Nutrition values are estimates calculated per serving. See our disclaimer.