Name: Savor the Flavors of Easy Jamaican Curry Shrimp in 25 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Raw Shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 2 tablespoons Curry Powder (recommended brands include Betapac or Montego); to taste Salt; to taste Black Pepper; 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 1 tablespoon Butter; 1 can Coconut Milk; 1 tablespoon Ketchup (optional); 1 cup Bell Peppers (mixed green and red, diced); 1 medium Yellow Onion (finely chopped); 2 scallions Escallion (finely sliced); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme; 1 piece Scotch Bonnet Pepper (whole or finely chopped); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (mixed with cold water)

Amid the bustling kitchen, a delightful aroma wafted from the stovetop, promising a vibrant culinary escape. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Jamaican Curry Shrimp, a dish that brings the lively spirit of the Caribbean right to your dinner table. This scrumptious entree can be whipped up in just 25 minutes, making it an incredible option for those bustling weeknights when time is tight but the craving for flavor is strong. With its creamy coconut milk base and aromatic spices, you’ll find it a crowd-pleaser that both impresses friends and satisfies the family. Ready to transform your evening meal with a touch of island bliss? Let’s dive in!

Why Is Jamaican Curry Shrimp Irresistible?

Quick and Easy: In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a delicious dish that rivals your favorite takeout. Perfect for busy evenings!

Rich, Creamy Sauce: The blend of coconut milk and spices creates a luxurious texture that envelops the shrimp, turning each bite into a flavorful experience.

Bold Flavors: Infused with aromatic curry and fresh spices, this dish dances on your palate, transporting you to the warm beaches of Jamaica.

Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize to your taste! Substitute shrimp with scallops or add veggies like peas for extra color and nutrition.

Crowd-Pleaser: Your family and guests will be begging for seconds, making it ideal for casual gatherings or special occasions.

Pair this delightful meal with some crusty bread, and for a different flavor journey, give my delicious Curry Puff Bliss a try next!

Jamaican Curry Shrimp Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• Raw Shrimp – Enhances the dish with protein and texture; fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined is preferred.
• Garlic Powder – Provides a strong base flavor for the shrimp.
• Curry Powder – The main flavoring agent; recommended brands include Betapac or Montego for an authentic taste.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Adjust seasoning to enhance all flavors in the dish.

For the Sauce
• Olive Oil & Butter – Adds richness and prevents butter from burning during cooking.
• Coconut Milk – Creates a creamy sauce essential for the Jamaican Curry Shrimp’s texture and flavor profile.
• Ketchup (optional) – Some prefer adding ketchup for a slight sweetness to balance spices.

For the Veggies
• Bell Peppers (Green & Red) – Adds color and sweetness; any variety of bell pepper can be used.
• Yellow Onion – Contributes sweetness and depth; finely chopped.
• Escallion (Green Onion) – Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor when finely sliced.
• Garlic (fresh) – Provides enhanced flavor and aroma; use minced for more potency.
• Fresh Thyme – Introduces a warm, earthy flavor that complements the dish.
• Scotch Bonnet Pepper – Brings spice and flavor; can be used whole or finely chopped based on desired heat.

For Thickening
• Cornstarch – Used with cold water to thicken the sauce as needed.

Get ready to savor the flavors with these simple ingredients for your delightful Jamaican Curry Shrimp!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Jamaican Curry Shrimp

Step 1: Season the Shrimp
Start by seasoning the raw shrimp with garlic powder, curry powder, black pepper, and salt. Ensure each shrimp is well-coated with the seasoning for maximum flavor. Set aside for about 10 minutes, allowing the spices to marinate and infuse their rich flavors into the shrimp while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Heat the Oil and Butter
In a large saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Allow the mixture to heat for about 1-2 minutes until shimmering. Gently add the curry powder, “burning” it in the oil for around 2 minutes to enhance its aromatic profile. This step is crucial for bringing out the depth of flavor in your Jamaican Curry Shrimp.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add in the diced bell peppers and finely chopped yellow onion, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and become translucent. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld. Then, mix in the minced garlic, fresh thyme, and the whole or chopped scotch bonnet pepper, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes. The kitchen will fill with a fragrant aroma!

Step 4: Pour in the Coconut Milk
Now, pour in the coconut milk, stirring continuously to combine all the ingredients smoothly. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste, then bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 5 minutes; the sauce will thicken slightly while the spices continue to infuse into the creamy base.

Step 5: Add the Seasoned Shrimp
Next, gently fold in the seasoned shrimp, ensuring they’re well coated with the sauce. Cook the shrimp on medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn a lovely pink color. Be careful not to overcook them; they should curl into a nice “C” shape, indicating they’re perfectly tender and ready to be enjoyed in your Jamaican Curry Shrimp.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
If the sauce is thinner than desired, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water in a separate bowl to create a slurry. Gradually stir this mixture into the sauce and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. As you watch, you’ll see the sauce thicken beautifully, enhancing the delightful texture of the Jamaican Curry Shrimp.

Step 7: Final Touches and Serve
Once thickened to your liking, remove the saucepan from heat. If you used a whole scotch bonnet pepper, take this opportunity to discard it. Spoon the Jamaican Curry Shrimp into bowls, serving hot alongside steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delightful sauce. Enjoy the vibrant, tropical flavors that this dish brings to your table!

Expert Tips for Jamaican Curry Shrimp

Taste as You Cook: Adjust flavors to your liking by tasting the curry throughout cooking; this helps achieve the perfect balance of spices.

Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side. They should curl into a “C” shape for optimal tenderness in your Jamaican Curry Shrimp.

Perfectly Thicken Sauce: Gradually add the cornstarch slurry to avoid clumping; stir well until you reach the desired consistency without overstirring.

Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality shrimp and authentic curry powder brands like Betapac for richer flavor in your dish.

Customize Heat Levels: Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper to your taste; remove it early if you prefer a milder flavor without sacrificing the dish’s essence.

Jamaican Curry Shrimp Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful dish and make it truly yours!

Milder Heat: Substitute scotch bonnet pepper with a jalapeño or poblano for a gentler kick. This slight switch allows the dish’s flavors to shine without overwhelming heat.
Veggie Boost: Add in diced potatoes or sweet peas for an extra nutritional element. These additions not only enhance the dish’s complexity but also contribute to a vibrant color palette.
Seafood Swap: Swap shrimp for succulent scallops or lobster. This creates a luxurious take on the classic recipe that seafood lovers will adore, offering a different texture that melts in your mouth.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of coconut milk for an even richer and creamier sauce. It elevates the dish’s decadence while keeping it dairy-free!
Spicy Twist: Amp up the spices by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes. This small adjustment turns your island classic into a fiery sensation that packs a punch with every bite.
Coconut-Free: If you prefer no coconut flavors, substitute coconut milk with vegetable broth and almond milk to keep it creamy without the coconut taste. This twist gives you an entirely different yet satisfying experience.
Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh cilantro or parsley just before serving for an aromatic touch. This extra layer of freshness brightens the dish, bringing it to life and making it more visually appealing.

Incorporate any of these variations to spice things up! And if you’re looking for another quick seafood dish, my scrumptious Bang Bang Shrimp recipe may catch your interest too. Enjoy exploring different flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These Jamaican Curry Shrimp are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the shrimp with garlic powder, curry powder, black pepper, and salt up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables (bell peppers, onion, and escallion) ahead of time, storing them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy this dish, simply heat the oil and butter, sauté the veggies, pour in the coconut milk, and then add the shrimp. This way, you’ll have a delicious, comforting seafood dinner with minimal effort and just as rich a flavor as if it were freshly made!

What to Serve with Jamaican Curry Shrimp

Elevate your meal by pairing this vibrant curry with sides that enhance each delicious bite while satisfying any craving.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Provides a fluffy, fragrant base that absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully, complementing the shrimp’s rich flavors.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing mix of textures with nutty quinoa and fresh veggies boosts nutrition, offering a lovely contrast to the warm curry. A zesty dressing can tie the meal together beautifully.
Grilled Pineapple Skewers: The sweetness of caramelized pineapple adds a tropical twist, balancing the dish’s heat while creating a fun, festive vibe.
Fried Plantains: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these sweet treats are the perfect foil for the spicy shrimp, delivering a taste explosion with every bite.
Coconut Ginger Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots paired with the essence of coconut and ginger blend seamlessly with curry flavors, adding a vibrant pop of color to your plate.
Mango Chutney: A spoonful of this fruity, spicy condiment enhances each bite, amplifying the shrimp’s flavor and giving your meal an authentic Caribbean touch.
Crisp Green Salad: Light and refreshing, a mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette can cleanse the palate, evoking the feeling of a beachside dinner.
Pineapple Coconut Mocktail: For a drink option, a refreshing beverage with pineapple juice and coconut milk perfectly complements the shrimp while keeping it light and tropical.
Chocolate Coconut Tres Leches Cake: To finish off your celebration, this moist dessert provides a satisfyingly rich conclusion, tantalizing your sweet tooth without overshadowing your main dish.

Storage Tips for Jamaican Curry Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while ensuring your delicious Jamaican Curry Shrimp remains ready to enjoy.

Freezer: If you’d like to keep it longer, freeze in a resealable bag or an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the creamy texture, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving as it may make the shrimp tough.

Jamaican Curry Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best shrimp for Jamaican Curry Shrimp?
Absolutely! Look for shrimp that are fresh, firm, and have a mild ocean scent. They should be clear and moist without dark spots all over, which indicate spoilage. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they’re peeled and deveined for ease in preparation.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of Jamaican Curry Shrimp?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the shrimp are cooled before sealing, as excessive heat can cause condensation inside the container, leading to sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stovetop to maintain that luscious creamy texture.

Can I freeze Jamaican Curry Shrimp, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze, let your Jamaican Curry Shrimp cool completely, then transfer it to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. When ready, reheat over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until warmed throughout. This should keep well for up to 2 months and will save you time on busy nights!

What if my sauce is too thin?
Very! If your sauce doesn’t thicken as desired, don’t worry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Gradually stir this mixture into your sauce while simmering. Keep stirring for 2-3 minutes until it thickens nicely without any lumps. Remember, it’s all about patience and watching those magic transformations!

Is Jamaican Curry Shrimp safe for those with shellfish allergies?
No, if you or anyone you’re serving has shellfish allergies, it is crucial to avoid shrimp altogether. You could experiment with alternative proteins like chicken or tofu, but be aware of dietary restrictions and always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.

How can I customize the heat level in my Jamaican Curry Shrimp?
For sure! You can adjust the heat by varying the amount of scotch bonnet pepper you add; simply use less for a milder flavor. Alternatively, if you love heat, consider leaving the pepper whole during cooking and remove it before serving, allowing your dish to have subtle spice without overwhelming your palate. Don’t hesitate to experiment!