Jamaican Curry Shrimp Recipe
Jamaican Curry Shrimp is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s sure to become a favorite!
This easy Jamaican Curry Shrimp recipe combines tender, juicy shrimp with bold Jamaican spices, all simmered in a rich, flavorful curry sauce.
Perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions, it’s a recipe loved in Jamaica and cherished by seafood enthusiasts worldwide.
Whether you’re new to Jamaican cooking or a seasoned pro, this Jamaican Curry Shrimp recipe will have you coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
What is Jamaican Curry Shrimp?
Jamaican Curry Shrimp is a classic dish that showcases the island’s bold take on curry. Unlike other curry dishes, Jamaican curry has a unique flavor profile, thanks to the use of authentic Jamaican curry powder.
The sauce gets its rich, golden-yellow color from this curry powder, which blends turmeric, allspice, and other warm spices.
Jamaican curry shrimp may not be as well-known as Jamaican curry chicken or Jamaican curry goat, but it’s equally flavorful and loved.
Jamaican curry shrimp is a favorite in Jamaica and around the world.
Which Curry Powder Should I use?
For authentic Jamaican Curry Shrimp, it’s essential to use Jamaican curry powder. Jamaican curry powder is what gives this dish its signature bright yellow color, which sets it apart from other types of curry.
Without Jamaican curry powder, the dish won’t look, smell, or taste like true Jamaican Curry Shrimp. So, using Jamaican curry powder isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a must.
Without it, the dish simply won’t capture the true essence of authentic Jamaican Curry Shrimp.
Why You Will Love This Jamaican Curry Shrimp Recipe
There are several reasons you will love this Jamaican curry shrimp:
1. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights.
2. Bursting with Flavor: A mix of bold spices, creamy coconut milk, and the natural sweetness of shrimp creates a harmonious flavor profile.
3. Customizable: You can adjust the spice level or swap ingredients to suit your taste.
4. Versatile: Pairs well with rice, pasta, bread, or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients for Jamaican Curry Shrimp
To create Jamaican Curry Shrimp, gather the following ingredients:
- Shrimp: Use large or medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen both work fine.
- Jamaican Curry Powder: This is essential.
- Coconut Milk: Adds creaminess and balances the spices.
- Scotch Bonnet Pepper: For spice. Adjust based on your spice tolerance.
- Onion and Garlic: For a flavorful base.
- Thyme: Fresh sprigs for an earthy aroma.
- Green Bell Pepper and Red Bell Pepper: Adds sweetness and color.
- Scallions: For a fresh, herbal finish.
- Vegetable Oil: For sautéing.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To season.
- Optional: Ketchup for an extra punch of flavor.
- Optional: Carrot for added color and flavor.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Large Skillet or Saucepan: For cooking the curry.
- Sharp Knife: To chop vegetables and herbs.
- Cutting Board: For preparing ingredients safely.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To stir without scratching the pan.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To get your proportions right.
- Colander: To rinse shrimp.
How to Make Jamaican Curry Shrimp
To make Jamaican Curry Shrimp, start by cleaning and seasoning the shrimp with salt, pepper, and curry powder. Prepare the vegetables, including onion, garlic, ginger, scallions, carrot (optional) and bell peppers.
Heat oil in a skillet and “burn” the curry powder in the hot oil to release its aroma and deepen its flavor. Sauté the vegetables with thyme and Scotch bonnet pepper, then build a rich sauce by adding coconut milk with salt and pepper.
Simmer the sauce to combine the flavors, then add the shrimp and cook until they are pink and tender.
Tate and adjust the seasoning as needed, and serve you delicious Jamaican Curry Shrimp warm.
🍴✨ You can view the step-by-step instructions and the full recipe below.
What to Serve Jamaican Curry Shrimp With
Jamaican Curry Shrimp pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
- Steamed Rice: White rice, coconut rice, or rice and peas complement the creamy curry sauce.
- Boiled Dumplings or Yam: Traditional Jamaican sides that soak up the flavors.
- Steamed Vegetables: Carrots, bell peppers and cabbage are a great mix.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Large Skillet or Saucepan: For cooking the curry.
- Sharp Knife: To chop vegetables and herbs.
- Cutting Board: For preparing ingredients safely.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To stir without scratching the pan.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To get your proportions right.
- Colander: To rinse shrimp.
What to Serve Jamaican Curry Shrimp With
Jamaican Curry Shrimp pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
- Steamed Rice: White rice, jasmine rice, or rice and peas complement the creamy curry sauce.
- Roti or Flatbread: Perfect for scooping up the sauce.
- Fried Plantains: Add a sweet contrast to the spicy curry.
- Boiled Dumplings or Yam: Traditional Jamaican sides that soak up the flavors.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, okra, or callaloo provide a healthy balance.
Jamaican Curry Shrimp Recipe: FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the curry.
2. Is Jamaican Curry Shrimp spicy?
It can be spicy depending on how much Scotch bonnet pepper you use. If you prefer milder flavors, use less pepper.
3. Do I have to use Jamaican Curry Powder?
Yes, to achieve the authentic taste of Jamaican curry shrimp, be sure to use Jamaican curry powder.
4. What does “burn the curry” means?
In the context of the Jamaican curry chicken recipe, “burn the curry” refers to briefly cooking the curry powder in oil before adding other ingredients. This step enhances the flavor by deepening the taste of the curry. The term “burn” doesn’t mean literally burning the curry; instead, it involves cooking the curry powder until it achieves a golden-brown color. This careful process prevents bitterness and ensures a rich, flavorful base for the dish. See video below:
Jamaican Curry Shrimp Recipe
Course: SoupsCuisine: Jamaican4
servings10
minutes15
minutes320
kcalEnjoy this delicious and easy Jamaican Curry Shrimp recipe!
Ingredients
1 pound shrimp (large or medium-sized, peeled and deveined)
2 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder
1 cup coconut milk
1 Scotch bonnet pepper (whole or sliced, adjust to taste)
1 medium onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1-2 sprigs fresh thyme
½ medium green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
½ medium red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
1 medium carrot (thinly sliced or julienned)
1 scallion (finely chopped)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
1 teaspoon ketchup
1 medium carrot: (thinly sliced or julienned) (optional)
½ teaspoon all-purpose seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat them dry, and season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of curry powder. Set aside.
- Prep the Vegetables:
- Finely chop the carrots, onion, garlic, ginger, scallions, and bell pepper.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- “Burn” the Curry:
- Add 1 tablespoons of Jamaican curry powder to the hot oil and stir constantly for about 1 minute. You’ll know when the curry is ready when it becomes fragrant and turns a deep golden-brown color.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the carrot (optional), bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute, or until the vegetables soften slightly. Add the thyme sprigs and Scotch bonnet pepper (whole or chopped, based on your spice preference) and cook for another minute.
- Build the Sauce:
- Pour in the coconut milk and season with salt and black pepper. Stir well to combine. Then add the ketchup (optional). Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Stir gently and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, black pepper, or Scotch bonnet pepper for extra spice. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Remove the Scotch bonnet pepper and serve your delicious Jamaican Curry Shrimp!
Notes
- What does “burn the curry” means?
In the context of the Jamaican curry shrimp recipe, “burn the curry” refers to briefly cooking the curry powder in oil before adding other ingredients. This step enhances the flavor and deepening the taste of the curry. The term “burn” doesn’t mean literally burning the curry; instead, it involves cooking the curry powder until it achieves a golden brown color. This careful process prevents bitterness and ensures a rich, flavorful base for the dish.
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