Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Coconut Rice Recipe

Immerse yourself in a world of flavors with this spicy garlic shrimp with coconut rice recipe. This dish offers a perfect balance of heat from the spices, a fresh hint of garlic, savory shrimps, and sweetness from the coconut rice. It's a satisfying meal that is sure to impress your guests or treat you to a special dinner at home.

Photos of Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Coconut Rice Recipe

Some of the ingredients in the spicy garlic shrimp with coconut rice recipe might not be in your pantry. Coconut milk is a key ingredient, providing a creamy and slightly sweet flavor to the rice. It can be found in the international foods aisle. Another notable ingredient is jalapeno pepper, which brings heat to the shrimp. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider removing the seeds from the jalapeno.

Ingredients for Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Coconut Rice

Long grain white rice: This type of rice is ideal as it absorbs the flavors of the coconut milk well, while providing a fluffy texture.

Jumbo shrimp: They are the star of the dish, offering a rich, savory flavor and a satisfying bite.

Garlic: Used in the marinade for the shrimp, it brings a pungent, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor.

Jalapeno pepper: It provides heat to the shrimp. Adjust the quantity based on your preference for spiciness.

Lime juice: Adds a tangy flavor that balances the heat of the jalapeno and the richness of the shrimp.

Extra-virgin olive oil: Used to cook the shrimp, it brings a depth of flavor.

Coconut milk: It gives the rice a creamy texture and a subtle, sweet flavor.

Red chili powder: Enhances the spiciness of the dish. You can adjust the quantity based on your liking.

Cilantro: Used for garnishing, it adds a fresh and slightly citrusy flavor.

One reader, Jeralee Hinkle says:

This spicy garlic shrimp with coconut rice recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are a perfect blend of spicy and savory, and the coconut rice adds a delightful touch of sweetness. The dish is easy to prepare and tastes absolutely divine. I highly recommend trying it out!

Jeralee Hinkle

Cooking Techniques for Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Coconut Rice

How to marinate shrimp: Combine garlic, water, and salt in a blender and pulse until the garlic is chopped but not pureed. Pour the mixture over the shrimp and let it marinate for 10 minutes.

How to cook coconut rice: In a pot, bring water and salt to a boil, then add the rice. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, then let it sit, covered, for an additional 10 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the rice to a bowl and mix in the coconut milk. Adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.

How to cook spicy garlic shrimp: Heat olive oil in a pan, add the marinated shrimp, and cook for 1 minute. Then, add coconut milk and red chili powder, and cook for an additional 30 seconds.

How to garnish with cilantro: Chop fresh cilantro and sprinkle it over the cooked shrimp and coconut rice before serving.

How To Make Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Coconut Rice

Amazingly delicious with a special spicy kick, this spicy garlic shrimp is loaded with plump shrimp over creamy, coconut rice for a full, satisfying meal.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Marinate Time: 10 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1½cupslong grain white rice
1lbjumbo shrimp,(about 20 large shrimps)
6large garlic cloves
1½cupwater
salt
1jalapeno pepper,seeded, ribs removed, julienned
lime juice,(from 1 lime), or 2-inches white tender-end lemongrass, finely sliced
1tbspextra-virgin olive oil
5.6ozcoconut milk,(2 small cans), full fat
1tspred chili powder,or red chili sauce, to taste
cilantro,to garnish, optional

Instructions

Put 1½ cups of long-grain rice, 2½ cups of water, and 1 teaspoon of salt into a medium-sized, thick-bottomed pot and bring to a boil.
Cover the pot and lower the heat to the lowest setting and cook for 15 minutes.
Remove from the heat and let sit, covered, for 10 minutes.
While the rice cooks, pulse the garlic, water, and ½ teaspoon salt in a blender. Just a few pulses, so there are still chunks of garlic. Pour over the shrimp to marinate.
Marinate for 10 minutes.
Strain the water from the shrimp and garlic mixture. Add the lime juice, jalapeño, and ½ teaspoon of salt to the shrimp mixture.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in high heat in a large sauté pan. Add the shrimp. Cook for 1 minute.
Add 1 small can of coconut milk. Cook for 30 seconds more, then mix in 1 teaspoon of red chili powder or sauce.
When the rice is done cooking, transfer it to a large bowl. Mix in the 2nd can of coconut milk to the cooked rice. Taste and add additional salt, if needed.
Serve the shrimp on rice, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

The shrimp can either be peeled and deveined, with or without the tails left on, or for more flavor, leave the peels on.

Nutrition

Calories: 271.32kcal
Fat: 17.53g
Saturated Fat: 11.06g
Trans Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.08g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.15g
Carbohydrates: 7.12g
Fiber: 0.75g
Sugar: 0.39g
Protein: 22.53g
Cholesterol: 190.51mg
Sodium: 896.71mg
Calcium: 118.71mg
Potassium: 374.49mg
Iron: 2.49mg
Vitamin A: 109.07µg
Vitamin C: 10.12mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Coconut Rice

When cooking the shrimp, it's important not to overcook them as they can become tough and lose their succulent flavor. Shrimp cook very quickly, usually in 1-2 minutes. You'll know they're done when they turn pink and opaque. Also, marinating the shrimp in the garlic mixture not only infuses them with flavor but also helps to tenderize them. For the coconut rice, make sure to stir in the coconut milk while the rice is still hot, this allows the rice to absorb the flavors better.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Shrimp and Rice Dish

Prep ahead: Chop and marinate the shrimp the night before to cut down on prep time. You can also cook the rice in advance and reheat it when you're ready to serve.

One-pot cooking: Consider using a large skillet or a wok to cook the shrimp and rice together, saving time on cleaning multiple pots and pans.

Organized workspace: Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients and tools are easily accessible. This will help streamline the cooking process and save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Coconut Rice Recipe

long grain white rice - Substitute with jasmine rice: Jasmine rice has a similar texture and fragrance to long grain white rice, but it has a slightly floral aroma and a softer, stickier texture when cooked.
jumbo shrimp - Substitute with prawns: Prawns are a suitable substitute for jumbo shrimp, as they have a similar taste and texture, and can be used interchangeably in recipes.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves, providing a similar flavor without the need for mincing or chopping.
jalapeno pepper - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers have a similar heat level and flavor profile to jalapenos, making them a suitable substitute in recipes.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can be used as a substitute for lime juice, providing a similar level of acidity and citrus flavor to the dish.
coconut milk - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a substitute for coconut milk, providing a richer and creamier texture to the dish.
red chili powder - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can be used as a substitute for red chili powder, providing a similar level of heat and spice to the dish.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish.

How to Beautifully Present Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Coconut Rice

Elevate the shrimp: Arrange the cooked shrimp in a circular pattern on the coconut rice, ensuring each piece is visible and well-presented.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the shrimp and rice to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Incorporate vibrant lime wedges: Place small lime wedges strategically around the plate to add a touch of brightness and provide a visual contrast.
Utilize a minimalist plating style: Embrace a clean and minimalist plating style, allowing the vibrant colors of the dish to shine through without overwhelming the presentation.
Consider the plate shape and color: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the dish, such as a simple white plate to enhance the visual appeal.
Create a harmonious balance: Ensure that the distribution of shrimp and rice on the plate creates a harmonious balance, with attention to spacing and visual appeal.
Add a touch of heat: For a dramatic touch, sprinkle a pinch of red chili powder over the dish to add a hint of heat and create visual interest.
Emphasize the coconut rice: Mold the coconut rice into a small circular shape using a ring mold to create a visually appealing base for the shrimp.
Use precision in plating: Pay attention to the placement of each element, ensuring precision and attention to detail in the presentation of the dish.
Enhance with a drizzle of olive oil: Just before serving, delicately drizzle a small amount of high-quality olive oil over the shrimp and rice to add a glossy finish and depth of flavor.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Shrimp and Rice Recipe

Blender: A kitchen appliance used to blend, purée, or emulsify food and other substances.
Sauté pan: A wide, flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Medium-sized pot: A cooking vessel used for boiling, stewing, or simmering ingredients.
Strainer: A kitchen tool used to separate solids from liquids by passing the mixture through a perforated surface.
Large bowl: A container used for mixing, holding, or serving food.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for This Shrimp Recipe

Let the spicy garlic shrimp and coconut rice cool down to room temperature before storing them in the refrigerator.
Store the shrimp and rice separately in airtight containers or resealable plastic bags.
The shrimp and rice will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the coconut rice, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
The rice can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
To freeze the spicy garlic shrimp, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
The frozen shrimp can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the coconut rice, place it in a microwave-safe container with a splash of water, cover, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the rice in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water if needed.
To reheat the frozen spicy garlic shrimp, place them in the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
Once thawed, reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
Avoid refreezing the shrimp or rice after they have been thawed to maintain their quality and texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Spicy Garlic Shrimp and Coconut Rice

Reheat the coconut rice in the microwave or on the stovetop. If using the microwave, place the rice in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of water or coconut milk, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. If using the stovetop, place the rice in a saucepan, add a splash of water or coconut milk, cover with a lid, and heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
For the spicy garlic shrimp, reheat them gently to avoid overcooking. Heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the shrimp and cook, stirring frequently, until they are heated through, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as the shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
If you want to reheat the shrimp and rice together, you can do so in the microwave or on the stovetop. In the microwave, place the shrimp on top of the rice in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. On the stovetop, place the shrimp and rice in a saucepan, add a splash of water or coconut milk, cover with a lid, and heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
To add extra flavor and moisture to the reheated dish, you can sprinkle some fresh lime juice over the shrimp and rice before serving. You can also garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeño for added freshness and heat.
If you find that the reheated shrimp and rice are a bit dry, you can add a small amount of coconut milk or chicken broth to the dish to help moisten it up. Just be careful not to add too much liquid, as this can make the dish soggy.

Interesting Trivia About Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Coconut Rice

Coconut milk is a versatile ingredient that adds a rich, creamy texture and a hint of sweetness to dishes. It is commonly used in both savory and sweet recipes, and it's a staple in many cuisines, including Thai, Indian, and Caribbean. This ingredient not only enhances the flavor of the dish but also provides numerous health benefits, such as being a good source of healthy fats and essential nutrients.

Budget-Friendly: Making Spicy Garlic Shrimp at Home

This spicy garlic shrimp with coconut rice recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as shrimp and rice, are generally affordable and widely available. The addition of coconut milk and garlic may slightly increase the cost, but these ingredients can be used in various other dishes. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 8/10, considering the balance of flavors, ease of preparation, and the use of accessible ingredients. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25, making it a budget-friendly and delicious meal option.

Is This Spicy Garlic Shrimp Dish Healthy or Not?

This spicy garlic shrimp with coconut rice recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. Let's break it down:

Healthy elements:

Shrimp is a lean protein source, low in calories and rich in nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids
Garlic has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can boost immunity and improve heart health
Jalapeño peppers contain capsaicin, a compound that may help boost metabolism and reduce inflammation
Lime juice provides vitamin C and can aid in iron absorption
Cilantro is a good source of antioxidants and may help detoxify the body

Unhealthy elements:

White rice is a refined carbohydrate, which can cause blood sugar spikes and is low in fiber
Coconut milk is high in saturated fat, which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels if consumed in excess
The recipe calls for added salt, which can contribute to high blood pressure if consumed in large amounts

To make this recipe healthier, you could:

Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa, which are whole grains with more fiber and nutrients
Use light coconut milk instead of full-fat to reduce the saturated fat content
Reduce the amount of added salt and let the natural flavors of the ingredients shine through
Add more vegetables to the dish, such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Use a combination of olive oil and a healthier cooking oil with a higher smoke point, like avocado oil, for sautéing the shrimp

These simple tweaks can help balance out the dish and make it a more well-rounded, nutritious meal without sacrificing taste. Experimenting with different herbs and spices can also add depth of flavor while keeping the sodium content in check.

Our Editor's Opinion on Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Coconut Rice

This recipe for spicy garlic shrimp with coconut rice is a delightful fusion of flavors. The combination of marinated shrimp with a hint of jalapeño and the creaminess of coconut milk creates a tantalizing dish. The aromatic blend of garlic and red chili powder adds depth and heat, while the cilantro garnish provides a fresh finish. The coconut rice, infused with coconut milk, complements the spiciness of the shrimp perfectly. Overall, this recipe offers a balance of bold and subtle flavors that will surely impress your taste buds.

Enhance Your Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Coconut Rice Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with a lemon garlic butter sauce

Grilled Pineapple: Juicy pineapple slices grilled to perfection with a sprinkle of chili powder for a sweet and spicy kick

Mango Salsa: Fresh mango chunks mixed with diced red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro for a zesty and fruity salsa

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Spicy Garlic Shrimp

Spicy Garlic Shrimp Tacos: Grilled shrimp, spicy slaw, and avocado crema in a warm tortilla

Coconut Curry Chicken: Tender chicken simmered in a flavorful coconut curry sauce with vegetables

Mango Salsa Salmon: Pan-seared salmon topped with a fresh and tangy mango salsa

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for Spicy Garlic Shrimp

Appetizers:

Spicy Garlic Shrimp: These succulent shrimp are marinated in a spicy garlic mixture and cooked in creamy coconut milk, creating a flavorful and satisfying appetizer that will leave your guests craving for more.

Coconut Rice: Fluffy and fragrant coconut rice is the perfect accompaniment to any meal. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of the coconut milk will elevate your dining experience to a whole new level.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and tangy flavors of a classic strawberry cheesecake, topped with a luscious strawberry compote and fresh slices of juicy strawberries for a delightful and refreshing treat.

Why trust this Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Coconut Rice Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful culinary experience, with jumbo shrimp marinated in a flavorful blend of garlic, jalapeño, and lime juice. The aromatic coconut milk and red chili powder infuse the dish with a rich, spicy kick. The coconut rice, cooked to perfection with coconut milk, complements the shrimp beautifully. The use of high-quality ingredients such as jumbo shrimp and extra-virgin olive oil ensures a dish that is both delicious and trustworthy. With a burst of fresh cilantro to garnish, this recipe promises a memorable dining experience.

Want to share your experience making this Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Coconut Rice Recipe or have any tips to enhance the flavors? Join the discussion in our Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How spicy is the spicy garlic shrimp with coconut rice?

The spiciness level of the dish can be adjusted to your preference. The red chili powder or sauce can be added in smaller or larger quantities to control the heat. Additionally, the jalapeño can be deseeded to reduce the spiciness.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?

Yes, brown rice can be used as a substitute for white rice in this recipe. However, the cooking time and water ratio may need to be adjusted as brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time and more water.

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used in place of fresh shrimp. Ensure that the shrimp is properly thawed and drained before marinating and cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

Is there a substitute for coconut milk if I don't have any on hand?

If coconut milk is not available, you can use regular milk or a dairy-free alternative such as almond milk or soy milk. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile will be different from the original recipe.

Can I prepare the spicy garlic shrimp with coconut rice in advance?

While the shrimp is best served fresh, the coconut rice can be prepared in advance and reheated when needed. The flavors of the dish may meld together even more if left to sit for a while, making it a great option for meal prep.