Coconut Red Curry Shrimp Skewers combine the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine with the ease of grilling. These skewers are perfect for everything from backyard barbecues to cozy family dinners. The creamy, spicy coconut curry sauce paired with the smoky char from the grill makes this dish a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for more.
This recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy shrimp, with a rich coconut milk-based marinade, fresh herbs, and the heat of red curry paste.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp red curry paste
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional but recommended)
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 stalk lemongrass, minced (or 1 tsp lemongrass paste)
For Grilling:
- 6–8 skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes if using)
- Cooking oil or spray
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Thai basil leaves
- Lime wedges
Directions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the red curry paste, coconut milk, soy sauce, fish sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and lemongrass until smooth. Reserve 1/4 cup of the marinade for basting and dipping later.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl with the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Avoid marinating for too long to prevent the lime juice from “cooking” the shrimp.
- Prepare the Skewers: Thread the shrimp onto the skewers, piercing each shrimp twice to ensure stability. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Shrimp: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, basting with the reserved marinade as they cook. The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, with slight char marks.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the skewers to a serving platter and sprinkle with fresh cilantro and Thai basil leaves. Serve with lime wedges and a small bowl of the reserved marinade for dipping.
Nutrients (approximate per serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 5g
Coconut Red Curry Shrimp Skewers are an irresistible fusion dish that combines the exotic flavors of Thai cuisine with the simplicity and fun of grilling. The tender shrimp marinated in a creamy, spicy coconut curry sauce and then charred on the grill offer a satisfying balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Perfect for a backyard BBQ, a family gathering, or a dinner with friends, these skewers bring a taste of Southeast Asia to your plate with minimal effort.
The Richness of Thai Flavors
The core of this recipe lies in the marriage of red curry paste, coconut milk, and fresh herbs—ingredients that are essential in Thai cooking. Red curry paste, a blend of chili, garlic, lemongrass, and spices, offers a rich, aromatic heat, while coconut milk provides a creamy, slightly sweet contrast to balance the spice. The combination of these ingredients creates a marinade that infuses the shrimp with complex layers of flavor, making each bite a delightful experience.
Coconut curry dishes are popular in Thai cuisine, often served with seafood, chicken, or vegetables. The pairing of shrimp with coconut milk-based curry sauce, however, is a match made in heaven. Shrimp, with its delicate texture and subtle sweetness, absorbs the rich and flavorful marinade, making it an excellent vehicle for the bold spices and creamy coconut milk.
Why Shrimp?
Shrimp is a versatile seafood that can easily take on the flavors of the ingredients it’s paired with. With its quick cooking time, shrimp is perfect for grilling, making it an excellent choice for skewers. The high heat from the grill imparts a smoky char to the shrimp, which contrasts wonderfully with the creamy coconut red curry marinade.
Shrimp is also a nutritional powerhouse. It’s low in fat, high in protein, and an excellent source of key vitamins and minerals like selenium, iodine, and vitamin B12. These shrimp skewers provide a balanced dish that’s not only full of flavor but also nutritious and light.
The Importance of the Marinade
The marinade is the soul of the dish, infusing the shrimp with incredible depth and complexity. Coconut milk acts as a tenderizing agent, softening the shrimp and allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. The red curry paste provides the essential heat and complexity, with its blend of garlic, chilies, and spices creating an aromatic foundation. Fish sauce (while optional) adds a salty umami flavor that is characteristic of Thai cuisine and enhances the overall richness of the dish.
Lemongrass and lime juice bring bright, fresh notes that cut through the richness of the coconut milk. Ginger adds a zesty, peppery kick that complements the sweetness of the coconut and honey. This combination of ingredients creates a marinade that’s both robust and balanced, making every bite of shrimp bursting with flavor.
Perfect for Grilling
Grilling is an ideal cooking method for shrimp because it allows the shrimp to cook quickly while still developing a charred, smoky exterior. The direct heat from the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, while the coconut milk-based marinade caramelizes slightly, creating a beautiful golden crust on the shrimp.
Using skewers also makes grilling the shrimp easier and more manageable. By threading the shrimp onto skewers, you ensure that the shrimp cook evenly on all sides. The skewers also make for a more visually appealing presentation, perfect for serving at parties or gatherings. Wooden skewers should be soaked in water before use to prevent them from burning, but if you prefer, you can use metal skewers, which won’t require soaking.
Garnishes and Accompaniments
Once the shrimp is cooked and skewered, the finishing touches are what truly elevate this dish. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro and Thai basil leaves adds an herbal freshness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, spicy coconut sauce. These herbs provide a burst of color and fragrance, making the dish visually stunning and aromatic.
Lime wedges are an essential garnish for any Thai-inspired dish. A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving brightens up the flavors, cutting through the richness of the coconut and balancing the spice from the red curry paste. This small addition gives the dish a tangy punch that enhances the overall flavor profile.
The Versatility of Coconut Red Curry Shrimp Skewers
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Coconut Red Curry Shrimp Skewers can be served as an appetizer or main course, depending on the occasion. They are great for entertaining, as they can be cooked on the grill in batches, allowing you to prepare them quickly for a crowd. The skewers can also be paired with various sides, from a simple jasmine rice or Thai sticky rice to a refreshing mango salad or grilled vegetables.
For a complete meal, these skewers are fantastic when paired with a cooling dip, such as a tangy yogurt-based sauce or a sweet chili dipping sauce. You can also serve them over a bed of quinoa or rice noodles, allowing the coconut curry sauce to soak into the grains, adding even more flavor to the dish.
Health Benefits of Coconut Red Curry Shrimp Skewers
Not only do these shrimp skewers taste incredible, but they also come with a variety of health benefits. Shrimp is a lean protein that’s low in calories and fat, making it a great choice for those seeking a lighter yet satisfying meal. The coconut milk used in the marinade, while rich and creamy, also offers several health benefits. It contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are a type of fat that can help improve metabolic function and may contribute to weight loss.
Additionally, the ginger and lemongrass in the marinade have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may aid digestion and boost the immune system. This dish is a great way to enjoy the health benefits of seafood and herbs while indulging in the delightful flavors of Thai cuisine.
Conclusion: A Flavorful Journey to Thailand
Coconut Red Curry Shrimp Skewers offer an exciting journey through the rich, bold flavors of Thailand, all while being easy to prepare and grill. The combination of creamy coconut milk, spicy red curry paste, and fresh herbs transforms ordinary shrimp into a standout dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or planning a special dinner, these skewers are sure to impress. Their simplicity, versatility, and unforgettable flavor make them a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of exotic flair to their cooking.
The balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, along with the smoky char from the grill, ensures that these skewers will be a crowd-pleaser every time. Don’t forget the finishing touches: a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime juice bring the dish to life, leaving everyone asking for seconds. Coconut Red Curry Shrimp Skewers are more than just a meal—they’re a flavorful adventure waiting to be enjoyed.