Ingredients
Spices and Seasonings for Shrimp
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (or curry powder)
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
Shrimp
- 1 pound jumbo shrimp (peeled, tails on or off)
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 1/2 tablespoons oil (divided, includes butter)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons minced ginger
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder (or curry powder)
- 14 ounces can crushed tomatoes (or Passata for a smoother sauce)
- 1/2-1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 13.5 ounces coconut milk (or coconut cream, can)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped to garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp spices: In a bowl, combine garam masala, ground cumin, turmeric, salt, and red chili powder. Toss the peeled shrimp with this spice mixture and 1 tablespoon of oil, ensuring they are well-coated. Set aside to marinate briefly.
- Sear the shrimp: Heat 1/2 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the shrimp for about 1 minute on each side until just cooked but not fully done. Transfer shrimp to a plate and set aside.
- Cook the onion and aromatics: In the same skillet, heat the remaining oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits left from the shrimp for added flavor.
- Add garlic, ginger, and spices: Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add garam masala, cumin, ground coriander, and turmeric powder, stirring occasionally for about 20 seconds to release the spices’ aromas.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings: Pour in crushed tomatoes or Passata, add red chili powder, salt, and brown sugar. Stir to combine all ingredients well.
- Simmer with coconut milk: Pour in the coconut milk or cream and let the sauce simmer gently on medium heat, stirring occasionally until it slightly thickens, approximately 4 minutes.
- Finish cooking shrimp: Return the seared shrimp to the sauce. Cook together for about 1 more minute, allowing the shrimp to fully cook through and warm evenly with the sauce.
- Serve and garnish: Remove from heat immediately. Garnish the curry with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot with fresh garlic butter rice and homemade naan bread for a complete, delicious meal.
Notes
- Adjust red chili powder to your preferred spice level, starting with less and adding more if desired.
- Using Passata instead of crushed tomatoes will result in a smoother sauce texture.
- Serving suggestion: pair with garlic butter rice and homemade naan for an authentic experience.
- You can substitute jumbo shrimp with smaller shrimp but adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently on stovetop.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Halal