This vibrant Jamaican Curry Shrimp from My Forking Life brings a bright, Caribbean twist to weeknight dinners. Succulent shrimp are bathed in a golden coconut curry sauce with bell peppers, Scotch bonnet heat, and savory seasonings—ready in under 30 minutes and perfect served with rice.
Ingredients
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2½ Tbsp Jamaican curry powder, divided
1 tsp all‑purpose seasoning
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 scotch bonnet pepper, sliced (optional)
3 garlic cloves, chopped
13.5 oz can unsweetened coconut milk
½ Tbsp ketchup
4 sprigs fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
Salt & pepper, to taste
Directions
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Season shrimp: In a bowl, toss shrimp with 1 Tbsp curry powder and all-purpose seasoning; let rest for 10 minutes while prepping the rest.
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Sauté vegetables: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, bell peppers, scotch bonnet (if using), and garlic; cook 5 minutes until softened.
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Add spices: Stir in remaining 1½ Tbsp curry powder; cook 1 minute to bloom the flavor.
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Create sauce: Pour in coconut milk, seasoned shrimp, ketchup, and thyme. Bring to a simmer, cooking shrimp 5–6 minutes until opaque, flipping halfway.
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Finish & serve: Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot over rice, garnished with fresh cilantro or lime wedges if desired.
Nutrients
Calories: ~319 kcal per serving
Protein: ~27 g
Fat: ~24 g (Saturated ~14 g)
Carbohydrates: ~12 g (Fiber ~4 g, Sugar ~4 g)
Sodium: ~1,405 mg
Cholesterol: ~214 mg
Vitamin A: ~542 IU
Vitamin C: ~12 mg
The Story Behind Jamaican Curry Shrimp
Jamaican Curry Shrimp is a flavorful and vibrant dish that brings the rich culinary traditions of the Caribbean straight to your dinner table. With its bold combination of tender shrimp, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk, this dish embodies the essence of Jamaican cooking. Often considered a favorite among locals, it has evolved from the influence of Jamaican culture’s multi-ethnic heritage. Curry itself, although originally an Indian import, has been embraced and adapted in Jamaica, creating a fusion of flavors that is unique to the island.
In Jamaica, curry is used in many traditional dishes, from curry goat to curry chicken. The adaptation of curry to shrimp was an inevitable and delicious result of the country’s love for seafood and spice. What sets Jamaican curry apart from its Indian counterpart is the use of indigenous Jamaican ingredients like Scotch bonnet peppers, thyme, and allspice, which add complexity and heat. The shrimp itself is often the star, cooked in a rich coconut sauce that balances the spiciness with creaminess.
This dish is not only flavorful but also deeply satisfying, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want to treat your guests to a taste of the Caribbean. With a preparation time of under 30 minutes, it’s a quick yet impressive way to enjoy Jamaican cuisine in your own kitchen.
The Key Ingredients of Jamaican Curry Shrimp
Understanding the key ingredients that make up Jamaican Curry Shrimp can help you appreciate the depth of flavor in the dish. While the recipe is simple, each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and savory goodness.
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Shrimp: The main protein in this dish, shrimp provides a delicate yet firm texture that absorbs the curry sauce wonderfully. Opting for large shrimp that are peeled and deveined ensures that the shrimp cooks evenly and absorbs the spices more effectively.
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Jamaican Curry Powder: The hallmark of the dish, Jamaican curry powder is a blend of spices such as turmeric, coriander, and cumin. It has a more earthy and peppery profile compared to traditional Indian curry powder, and it is often slightly less pungent. This gives the dish its characteristic golden color and depth of flavor.
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Scotch Bonnet Pepper: Known for its intense heat, the Scotch bonnet pepper is a defining ingredient in Jamaican cuisine. It’s often used to impart a sharp, spicy kick that elevates the flavor of the dish. It also adds a fruity and smoky quality, balancing the heat with sweetness.
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Coconut Milk: Coconut milk is key in creating the rich, creamy sauce that makes this dish so indulgent. The coconut milk not only adds smoothness but also cuts through the heat of the curry and Scotch bonnet pepper, providing a perfect balance of flavors.
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Fresh Thyme: Thyme is a classic herb used in Jamaican cooking. It adds an earthy, aromatic touch to the dish, complementing the spices and the shrimp. Fresh thyme is often preferred for its vibrant flavor, but dried thyme can also be used if necessary.
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Garlic and Onion: These two ingredients are the aromatic base of many Caribbean dishes, providing a savory foundation for the curry sauce. Garlic adds its signature sharpness, while the onion brings a natural sweetness to the dish.
Why Jamaican Curry Shrimp is a Healthy Choice
Jamaican Curry Shrimp is not just a flavorful dish—it can also be quite nutritious. Here’s a closer look at the health benefits of some of the key ingredients.
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Shrimp: Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein food that provides essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium. It is a lean source of protein that can help build muscle and support overall health. Additionally, shrimp is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health.
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Coconut Milk: While coconut milk is high in fat, it contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which have been shown to provide energy, support brain function, and aid in weight management. The healthy fats in coconut milk can help improve cholesterol levels when consumed in moderation.
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Thyme and Other Herbs: Fresh thyme and other herbs like parsley or cilantro, which are often used as garnish, are full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. They can help support your immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote overall health.
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Vegetables: The inclusion of bell peppers and onions provides a healthy dose of fiber, vitamins A and C, and various antioxidants that contribute to better digestion and immune function. These vegetables add color, texture, and a subtle sweetness to the dish.
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Spices: Spices such as curry powder and Scotch bonnet pepper have anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric (which is part of the Jamaican curry powder), has been studied for its potential benefits in reducing inflammation and promoting digestive health.
Overall, Jamaican Curry Shrimp is a balanced meal that provides plenty of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and satisfying choice for any meal.
Serving Suggestions for Jamaican Curry Shrimp
While Jamaican Curry Shrimp is a hearty dish on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can enhance the overall experience. Here are a few serving suggestions to help you build a complete and flavorful meal:
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Rice: Rice is the perfect base for Jamaican Curry Shrimp, as it absorbs the flavorful curry sauce. You can opt for white rice, jasmine rice, or brown rice, depending on your preference. Coconut rice or rice and peas (a traditional Jamaican dish made with rice, coconut milk, and kidney beans) are also excellent choices for a more authentic Caribbean experience.
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Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains are a classic Jamaican side dish that pairs beautifully with the heat of the curry. Their natural sweetness complements the spiciness of the shrimp, offering a satisfying contrast in texture and flavor.
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Steamed Vegetables: Steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or okra, can provide a healthy and crunchy contrast to the creamy curry. They also add color to the plate and are a great way to balance out the richness of the dish.
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Crispy Flatbreads or Roti: Roti, a type of Indian flatbread, is often served alongside curry dishes in the Caribbean. It’s great for dipping into the sauce and adds a bit of texture to the meal. You can also serve the curry with crispy fried dough or bread to scoop up the sauce.
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Salad: A light, refreshing salad with lettuce, cucumber, and tomatoes can help balance out the richness of the curry. A simple vinaigrette with lime juice and olive oil will enhance the dish without overpowering it.
Common Variations of Jamaican Curry Shrimp
Jamaican Curry Shrimp is a versatile dish, and many variations exist based on personal preferences and regional influences. Here are some popular twists on the classic recipe:
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Curry Shrimp with Vegetables: You can add a variety of vegetables to the dish, such as carrots, zucchini, or spinach. This not only adds more nutrients but also enhances the dish’s flavor profile, creating a richer and heartier meal.
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Curry Shrimp with Coconut Cream: For an even richer, creamier sauce, you can use coconut cream instead of coconut milk. This will create a more decadent dish, perfect for a special occasion or when you’re craving something indulgent.
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Spicy Heat: If you love spice, you can increase the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper or add extra chili flakes. For those who prefer a milder version, you can reduce the pepper or omit it altogether.
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Jerk Curry Shrimp: Combining two of Jamaica’s most beloved flavors—jerk seasoning and curry—results in a spicier, more smoky version of this dish. You can marinate the shrimp in jerk seasoning before cooking to infuse it with additional heat and flavor.
Conclusion
Jamaican Curry Shrimp is a perfect fusion of bold flavors, tender shrimp, and a rich coconut sauce that encapsulates the heart of Jamaican cuisine. This dish offers a delightful balance of spiciness, sweetness, and creaminess, making it a hit for any occasion. Not only is it a healthy and satisfying meal, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impressing guests at a dinner party.
Whether you enjoy it with a side of rice, fried plantains, or a fresh salad, Jamaican Curry Shrimp is a meal that will transport your taste buds to the Caribbean. With its combination of fresh ingredients, bold spices, and diverse cultural influences, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a delicious taste of Jamaica right in your own kitchen!