Jamaican Curry Shrimp Recipe

Jamaican Curry Shrimp Recipe

This Jamaican Curry Shrimp recipe features succulent jumbo shrimp simmered in a rich, flavorful curry sauce with a medley of colorful peppers and aromatic spices. It's a vibrant and spicy dish that brings the taste of the Caribbean to your table.

Seafood

Prep Time

15 min

Cook Time

15 min

Servings

4

Originating from the diverse and flavorful cuisine of Jamaica, this curry shrimp dish highlights the island’s love for bold spices and fresh ingredients. Jamaican curry itself is a unique blend that differs from Indian curries, offering a distinct aroma and a touch of sweetness balanced with heat. Adding shrimp to the curry enhances the dish with a delicate seafood flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy coconut milk base. This recipe combines a colorful mix of bell peppers, fiery scotch bonnet pepper, and fresh garlic and thyme to create a fragrant and vibrant sauce that truly sings with every bite. The use of coconut milk offers a luscious, creamy texture that balances the fiery notes from the curry powder and scotch bonnet pepper. Serve this dish over a bed of steamed rice, callaloo, or even with warm flatbreads for a complete meal that transports you right to the Caribbean. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress your guests with bold, authentic flavors.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Jumbo Shrimp
  • 2.5 tbsp Jamaican Curry Powder
  • 1 tsp All-purpose Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoon Olive Oil
  • 1 sliced Onion
  • 1 sliced Red Pepper
  • 1 sliced Green Pepper
  • 1 sliced Scotch Bonnet
  • 3 cloves chopped Garlic
  • 380 g Unsweetened Coconut Milk
  • 0.5 tb Tomato Ketchup
  • 4 sprig Thyme
  • To taste Salt
  • To taste Pepper

Instructions

Begin by seasoning the jumbo shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Jamaican curry powder and the all-purpose seasoning, ensuring each shrimp is well coated. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes; this allows the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the shrimp while you prepare the other ingredients. Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced yellow onion, vibrant red and green bell peppers, finely sliced scotch bonnet pepper (adjust according to your heat preference), and chopped garlic. Sauté these colorful vegetables together for approximately 5 minutes until the peppers soften slightly and the aromas start to bloom. Sprinkle in 1.5 tablespoons of curry powder directly into the skillet, stirring continuously for an additional minute to toast the spices and release their fragrant oils — this step enhances the depth of flavor in your curry. Pour in the unsweetened coconut milk followed by the seasoned shrimp, tomato ketchup, and sprigs of fresh thyme. Stir gently to ensure the shrimp is fully immersed in the creamy sauce. Bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow the curry to cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring every so often and flipping the shrimp halfway through to ensure even cooking. The shrimp should turn a lovely pink color and become opaque, indicating they are perfectly cooked. Taste the sauce and season with salt and freshly ground pepper as needed. Tip: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy. Also, if you prefer less heat, you can reduce or omit the scotch bonnet pepper but keep some for authentic island flair. Serve your Jamaican Curry Shrimp immediately with fluffy rice or coastal bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Quick Info

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
15 min
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4