Spicy Shrimp and Vegetable Stir Fry with Thai Red Curry Sauce

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that tantalizes the taste buds and ignites the senses? This Spicy Shrimp and Vegetable Stir Fry with Thai Red Curry Sauce is a vibrant dish that combines succulent shrimp, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, spicy sauce that will leave you craving more. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

For this delicious stir fry, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Stir Fry:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

For the Thai Red Curry Sauce:

• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 3 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Fresh basil or cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions

Creating this Spicy Shrimp and Vegetable Stir Fry is as easy as 1-2-3! Follow these steps for a delectable meal:

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk and Thai red curry paste. Stir well until the paste is fully dissolved.
2. Add fish sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly (about 5-7 minutes) while you prepare the stir fry.

Step 2: Stir Fry the Vegetables

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over high heat.
2. Add minced garlic and ginger, stirring quickly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add sliced bell peppers, snap peas, carrot, and broccoli. Stir fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are vibrant and slightly tender but still crisp.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. Push the vegetables to the side of the pan and add the shrimp to the center. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes.
2. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
3. Pour the prepared Thai red curry sauce over the shrimp and vegetables, tossing everything to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.

Step 4: Serve

1. Remove from heat and transfer to a serving platter.
2. Garnish with fresh basil or cilantro.
3. Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice or noodles.

Cooking Tips

• Shrimp Selection: Opt for wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor. Ensure they are fresh and have a firm texture.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to substitute or add any vegetables you enjoy. Zucchini, asparagus, or baby corn are excellent additions.
• Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level. You can also add a sliced fresh chili for extra heat.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute shrimp with tofu or tempeh and use soy sauce instead of fish sauce for a delicious vegan version.

Mouthwatering Descriptions

Imagine vibrant colors on your plate, with the sweet aroma of coconut milk mingling with the spicy notes of red curry. Each bite delivers a delightful crunch from the vegetables and tender, juicy shrimp, all enveloped in a creamy sauce that dances on your palate. It’s a culinary masterpiece that not only feeds the stomach but also the soul.

Pairing Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• Jasmine Rice: Its fluffy texture absorbs the sauce perfectly.
• Crispy Spring Rolls: For an appetizer that complements the meal.
• Chilled Thai Iced Tea: To balance the spiciness with its creamy, sweet flavor.

Further Reading and Resources

Looking to expand your culinary repertoire? Check out these resources for more delicious recipes and cooking techniques:

• How to Cook Perfect Shrimp Every Time
• Essential Thai Ingredients You Need in Your Kitchen
• The Complete Guide to Stir-Frying

Glossary of Terms

• Julienne: To cut food into thin matchstick-shaped pieces.
• Wok: A versatile round-bottomed cooking pot used in many Asian cuisines.
• Curry Paste: A concentrated blend of spices and herbs used to flavor dishes.

This Spicy Shrimp and Vegetable Stir Fry with Thai Red Curry Sauce is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to explore the rich flavors of Thai cuisine in your own kitchen. Share your experience, and don’t hesitate to experiment, making this dish truly your own. Happy cooking!